English as a second language is not recognized as a disability by the Illinois Department of Public Health and does not qualify the individual for accommodation testing. Individuals who are working in primarily English-speaking facilities are expected to be able to read and speak English fluently, and are required to take the Illinois Nurse Aide competency Exam in English.
Non-Spanish Translation:
If a CNA candidate is working for a facility with 51% or greater resident population who do not also speak English but speak another single language, then a translated exam may be approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health. A translation will require official documentation of employment and population of the facility before consideration will be given. Translated exams may take an extended period of time to schedule due to translation and testing facility availability.
Spanish Translation:
Legislation signed by the Governor on July 19, 2024 has changed the requirements for Spanish exam versions. If you are seeking a Spanish translated exam, please contact IDPH at dph.hcwr@illinois.gov for further guidance.
At this time, our office is working quickly to provide a computer delivered exam electronically through our INACE application. Until these updates are completed, all requested Spanish tests will be delivered via paper-based exam. We thank you for your patience.