Complete HHA Exam Guide 2026
The Home Health Aide (HHA) exam is the final step before starting your career. This guide covers exactly what to expect — the format, categories tested, passing score, and what to study so you pass the first time.
Exam Format
The HHA competency exam is typically divided into two parts:
- Written/Oral Skills Test: Multiple-choice questions covering knowledge of HHA duties, patient care, safety, and regulations. Typically 50–100 questions depending on the state.
- Skills Demonstration: A clinical portion where you demonstrate specific hands-on tasks in front of an evaluator.
PassHHA focuses on the written/knowledge portion — 75 practice questions structured like the real exam.
What Categories Are Tested?
The HHA exam tests your knowledge across 7 main categories:
- Infection Control — Handwashing, PPE, isolation precautions
- Personal Care — Bathing, grooming, oral care, perineal care
- Safety & Emergency — Fall prevention, fire safety, seizure response, CPR
- Nutrition — Diet types, feeding techniques, dysphagia
- Communication — Reporting, documentation, working with patients
- Legal & Ethics — HIPAA, patient rights, abuse recognition
- Basic Skills — Vital signs, body mechanics, transfers
Passing Score
Most states require a score of 70–75%to pass. PassHHA uses 75% as the threshold for “Pass Likely” — the same standard used by most state competency evaluations. We also show you a Borderline zone (65–74%) so you know exactly where you stand.
Top Tips to Pass the First Time
- Practice daily. Consistent daily practice is more effective than cramming. Even 10 questions per day builds retention over time.
- Know infection control cold. It appears on every exam. Focus especially on handwashing, standard precautions, and contact vs. airborne vs. droplet precautions.
- Understand the reasoning. Don't just memorize answers — understand why each answer is correct. Read every explanation.
- Simulate exam conditions. Take the 75-question mock exam in one sitting, timed, before your real exam day.
- Use your Readiness Score. A “Pass Likely” result on two consecutive mock exams is a strong indicator you are ready.
Common Questions
How many times can I take the HHA exam?
Rules vary by state, but most allow retakes after a waiting period. First-pass rates improve significantly with proper preparation.
Is PassHHA aligned with my state's exam?
PassHHA is based on the nationally recognized HHA competency standards. Most state exams follow the same curriculum, though some states have specific additions.
Do I need an account to practice?
No. You can start 10 free questions immediately without creating an account.
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