How to Get Your CNA Certification in Wyoming (WY): 2026 Guide
Wyoming uses Headmaster for CNA testing. Training is 75 hours and the state transitioned from Prometric in 2023. Renewal requires 24 CE hours.
Wyoming switched its CNA exam from Prometric to Headmaster (D&SDT) in June 2023. Candidates complete a 75-hour state-approved program and take the Headmaster exam. Wyoming's renewal also requires 24 hours of continuing education beyond the standard work-hour requirement, which is uncommon among states.
This guide explains Wyoming's program, costs, exam structure, and testing sites across the Cowboy State.
Wyoming CNA at a glance
- Testing vendor: Headmaster (D&SDT)
- Training hours: 75 total
- Exam format: knowledge test + skills evaluation
- Registry: Wyoming State Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 24 months; requires paid work + 24 hours of CE
Who oversees CNA certification in Wyoming
The Wyoming State Board of Nursing holds certification authority for CNAs, while the Wyoming Department of Health, Office of Healthcare Licensing and Surveys (OHLS) regulates nursing facility training programs (NATCEPs). This is a split-authority structure: the Board certifies individuals, while OHLS regulates the programs.
Training programs in Wyoming
Wyoming requires a 75-hour state-approved program. Programs are offered at:
- Community colleges (Casper College, Laramie County Community College, Northern Wyoming Community College, Western Wyoming Community College, Central Wyoming College, Eastern Wyoming College, Northwest College)
- Long-term care facilities with in-house programs
- Some high school career and technical education programs
Most programs run 4–8 weeks. Tuition typically ranges from $700 to $1,400, plus $80–$200 for textbooks, uniforms, BLS certification, and the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation background check.
The Wyoming CNA exam: Headmaster details
The Headmaster exam has two parts:
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Knowledge Test — multiple-choice questions covering resident care, safety, communication, and basic nursing skills.
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Skills Test — hands-on demonstration of randomly selected skills in front of a Headmaster nurse evaluator.
Register through Headmaster's TestMaster Universe (TMU) portal at wy.tmutest.com. Wyoming transitioned from Prometric in June 2023 — older candidates who prepared for the Prometric exam must reregister.
Headmaster also administers Wyoming's CNA II / Medication Aide-Certified (MA-C) credential — an advanced credential layered on top of the base CNA.
How much does the Wyoming CNA exam cost?
- Both parts combined — contact Headmaster
- Knowledge retake — contact Headmaster
- Skills retake — contact Headmaster
- Wyoming DCI background check — ~$25
- State registry listing — included
Training program tuition is paid separately and ranges $700–$1,400.
Where to take the test in Wyoming
- Cheyenne — frequent testing; state capital
- Casper — regular sessions; central Wyoming
- Laramie — periodic testing; University of Wyoming area
- Gillette — scheduled through partner programs; limited dates
- Rock Springs — limited dates; book early
- Sheridan — limited dates; book early
- Powell — limited dates; book early
Wyoming has the nation's lowest population density, so rural candidates may travel 1–4 hours to the nearest active site.
Scheduling and what to bring on test day
Bring government-issued photo ID, your TMU test confirmation, and clinical scrubs. The written portion may be available online through Headmaster's TMU Plus, or in person at approved Wyoming sites. Skills tests are always in person.
After you pass: Wyoming certification and renewal
Headmaster reports passing scores to the Wyoming Board of Nursing, which lists you on the Wyoming Certified Nurse Aide Registry within 7–14 days. Your name appears on the public registry. Certification is valid for 24 months. To renew, document at least 8 hours of paid nurse aide work during the certification period under the supervision of an RN, and complete at least 24 hours of continuing education.
Reciprocity requires documented paid nurse aide work within the prior 24 months.
Common pitfalls specific to Wyoming
- Vendor transition: Wyoming no longer uses Prometric; register through Headmaster.
- CNA II / MA-C: These advanced credentials are layered on top of base CNA through Headmaster.
- CE requirement: Renewals require 24 hours of continuing education, not just work hours.
- Travel distances: Wyoming's sparse population means rural candidates may plan overnight stays.
FAQ
How long does it take to become a CNA in Wyoming? Most students finish training in 4–8 weeks and add 2–4 weeks for exam scheduling and registry listing.
How much is Wyoming CNA training? Plan $700–$1,400 for tuition plus $100–$200 for supplies, the state background check, and the exam fee.
Can I bring an out-of-state CNA license to Wyoming? Yes. Apply through the Wyoming Board of Nursing. Reciprocity requires documented paid work within the prior 24 months.
What kind of continuing education does Wyoming require? Wyoming accepts CE from approved nursing continuing-education providers, including in-service training offered by employers.
Practice for the Wyoming CNA exam at /exam and review skills at /skills.
