HCA Exam Retake: What to Do If You Don’t Pass
- Katarina Mirkovic Arsic
- Mar 25
- 3 min read
Some candidates need more than one attempt to pass the HCA exam. If that’s the case for you, it’s important to know this is completely fixable.
The exam follows a clear structure, and once you understand what went wrong, you can prepare more effectively for your next attempt.
This guide explains what happens if you don’t pass, how retakes work in Washington State, and how to approach your next HCA test with confidence.
What Happens If You Fail the HCA Exam?
If you don’t pass the HCA exam, you will need to retake only the portion you did not pass.
If you fail the skills test, you’ll be assigned a new set of skills on your next attempt
If you fail the written exam, you’ll receive a different set of questions
On your next attempt, nothing about the test really changes. The format stays the same, the evaluation works the same way, and you’re still held to the same standards.
That includes the critical steps during the skills test. You’ll still need to complete each one correctly in order to pass.
Why People Fail (And How to Pass Next Time)
Most people that fail, do so because of the mistakes they made during their skills portion of the test. It’s easy to rush, forget a step, or second-guess yourself when you know you’re being evaluated. That’s usually where mistakes happen. These are the most common fail-worthy mistakes people make when performing under pressure.
Missing a critical step
Not verbalizing actions
Rushing through the task
Skipping hand hygiene or safety steps
The good news is that these are all things you can fix the second time around. If something went wrong the first time, try to pinpoint exactly where it happened. That makes your next attempt much more focused.
You can also review HCA test questions and answers or watch step-by-step skill demonstrations to reinforce your understanding and build confidence before retaking the exam.
HCA Test Results and Retake Timing
You’ll receive your HCA test results after completing the exam, usually on the same day or shortly after.
If you don’t pass, you don’t have to wait long to take the next step. Once your results are processed, you can go ahead and schedule another attempt.
How quickly you can retake the exam mostly depends on testing site availability, not strict waiting periods. That’s why it’s a good idea to book your next test as soon as you feel ready, especially if you want to stay in the same rhythm.
Cornerstone offers an HCA Exam with no waiting times.
How Many Times Can You Take the HCA State Test?
In Washington State, you’re allowed multiple attempts to pass the HCA exam. The exact number can vary based on current guidelines, but the important thing to know is that you’re not out after one attempt.
If you don’t pass the first time, treat it as feedback. Take a step back, identify what didn’t go well, and prepare a bit more intentionally for your next attempt. Most candidates improve significantly once they understand how the HCA test actually works.
Where to Retake the HCA Exam
If you’re planning your next attempt, you can retake your exam at approved HCA testing sites in Washington State.
Cornerstone offers in-person testing at multiple locations, including Olympia, Spokane, and Vancouver (check our HCA Exam page, as list always grows), with a straightforward scheduling process and no waitlist delays.
When booking your retake, choose a location and time that allow you to feel prepared and focused, having a clear plan for your next attempt makes a big difference.
FAQs About HCA Exam Retakes
What is the HCA test cost for retakes?
Retaking the HCA exam usually requires paying a testing fee again. Costs can vary depending on the provider, so it’s important to review the current fee structure before scheduling your retake.
Can you retake the HCA exam?
Yes, you can retake the HCA exam if you do not pass. This applies to both the skills test and the written exam. If you only fail one portion, you typically only need to retake that specific part.
Will I get the same skills again?
No. Skills are randomly assigned each time, so your next test will include a different set of tasks.
