CAA Practice Test
Updated for October 2026
CAA (Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant) play a crucial role in delivering safe and effective anesthesia care under the supervision of anesthesiologists. With a rapidly growing healthcare industry, CAAs are increasingly in demand, making this a lucrative and rewarding career choice. In this article, we will discuss the pathway to becoming a CAA, covering everything from eligibility requirements and training programs to career prospects and salary expectations.
CAA: upcoming dates and official changes
- Nov 9, 2026: Registration and scheduling for the February 2027 NCCAA Certification Exam opens November 9, 2026. (National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants)
- Feb 6, 2027: The scheduling period for the February 2027 NCCAA Certification Exam closes February 6, 2027. (National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants)
- Feb 9, 2027 – Feb 13, 2027: The next NCCAA Certification Exam for Anesthesiologist Assistants runs February 9–13, 2027, at Pearson test centers. (National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants)
- Jun 1, 2027 – Jun 5, 2027: After February 2027, the NCCAA Certification Exam windows are June 1–5, 2027 and October 5–9, 2027. (National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants)
- Oct 1, 2026: NCCAA published a revised Certification Exam Handbook (Rev. October 1, 2026), which governs wherever it differs from the website. (National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants)
Facts verified Oct 21, 2026 against National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
- The NCCAA Certification Exam has 180 multiple-choice items in two 90-item blocks, and 30 of them are unscored pretest items. (National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants)
- The NCCAA Certification Exam allows 235 minutes: two 110-minute blocks with an optional break of up to 15 minutes between them. (National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants)
- Registration for the NCCAA Certification Exam for Anesthesiologist Assistants costs $1,400, or $1,775 for late registration. (National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants)
- Retake registration for the NCCAA Certification Exam costs $150. (National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants)
- Candidates get at most six attempts at the NCCAA Certification Exam within a two-year eligibility period, counted from the first attempt or from graduation, whichever is earlier. (National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants)
- To stay certified, CAAs register CME credits every two years and pass the CDQ exam in year 4, year 10, and every ten years after that; CME submissions are due June 1. (National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants)
- The NCCAA Certification Exam is computer-based and taken at Pearson test centers across the United States. (National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants)
- To sit the NCCAA Certification Exam, a candidate must be enrolled in an accredited anesthesiologist assistant program and verified by the program director as on pace to graduate; certification also requires graduating from the program. (National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants)
- NCCAA Certification Exam pass/fail results typically appear in the candidate's NCCAA app profile 6–8 weeks after the exam. (National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants)
Facts verified Oct 21, 2026 against National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
CAA Exam at a Glance
| Item | Detail | Official source |
|---|
| Number of questions | 180 multiple-choice items (2 blocks of 90; 30 unscored pretest items) | National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants |
| Time limit | 235 minutes (two 110-minute blocks + optional 15-minute break) | National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants |
| Exam fee | $1,400 registration ($1,775 late registration) | National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants |
| Retake fee | $150 retake registration | National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants |
| Retake policy | Up to 6 attempts within a 2-year eligibility period | National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants |
| Renewal | CME every 2 years; CDQ exam in year 4, year 10, then every 10 years | National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants |
| Delivery | Computer-based at Pearson VUE test centers in the US | National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants |
| Eligibility | Enrolled in an accredited AA program and verified by the program director as on pace to graduate | National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants |
| Score release | Typically 6–8 weeks after the exam, in the NCCAA app | National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants |
| Next exam date | February 9–13, 2027 | National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants |
| Registration deadline | February 6, 2027 (for the February 2027 window) | National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants |
| Registration opens | November 9, 2026 (for the February 2027 window) | National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants |
| Testing window | June 1–5, 2027 (next windows after February 2027: June 1–5 and October 5–9, 2027) | National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants |
Facts verified Oct 21, 2026 against National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
CAA Practice Test Questions
Prepare for the CAA - Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.
Key Takeaways
Free CAA Practice Test Online
- CAAs earn competitive salaries, often ranging from $120,000 to $180,000 per year.
- Aspiring CAAs must complete an accredited graduate-level program and pass a certification exam.
- Job prospects for CAAs are strong, with opportunities available in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and specialty practices.
- Eligibility requirements include a bachelor's degree, relevant coursework, and, in some cases, healthcare experience.
Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant Salary
As of recent data, CAA (Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant) enjoy a competitive salary range, reflecting both their specialized training and the demand for their expertise. The salary can vary based on geographic location, healthcare facility, and level of experience, but the following figures provide a general overview:
- Average Salary: CAAs in the United States earn an average annual salary of approximately $120,000 to $150,000.
- Experience-Based Salary: Entry-level CAAs may earn around $110,000, while those with several years of experience can earn up to $180,000 or more.
- Geographical Influence: CAAs working in urban hospitals or specialized clinics may earn higher salaries compared to those in rural areas due to differences in demand and cost of living.
Considering the projected growth in the healthcare sector, the demand for CAAs is expected to remain strong, ensuring attractive salaries for professionals in this field.
Review the official CAA exam content outline Take a diagnostic practice test to identify weak areas Create a study schedule (4-8 weeks recommended) Focus on your weakest domains first Complete at least 3 full-length practice exams Review all incorrect answers with detailed explanations Take a final practice test 1 week before exam day Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant Programs
To become a CAA (Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant), candidates must complete a rigorous graduate-level program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). These programs are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to excel in anesthesia care. Key components of CAA programs include:
- Program Length: Typically, CAA programs take about 24 to 28 months to complete, including classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and clinical rotations.
- Curriculum: Students in CAA programs study a wide range of subjects, including pharmacology, physiology, anesthesia equipment, and patient monitoring techniques.
- Accredited Institutions: Currently, there are several accredited institutions across the United States offering CAA programs, including those affiliated with major universities and teaching hospitals.
Upon completing the program, graduates must pass the CAA National Certification Examination to become certified anesthesiologist assistants.
How to Become a Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant
The path to becoming a CAA (Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant) involves several key steps:
- Educational Prerequisites: Candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as biology or healthcare, along with coursework in subjects like chemistry, physics, and math.
- Graduate Program Admission: Admission to a CAA program is competitive, and applicants are often required to have a strong academic record, healthcare experience, and letters of recommendation.
- Certification Examination: After completing a CAA program, graduates must pass the National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants (NCCAA) exam to receive their certification.
- State Licensure: CAAs must meet licensure requirements, which vary by state, to practice legally. Some states may also require continuing education to maintain certification.
By following these steps, aspiring CAAs can enter a field that offers both job stability and a meaningful career in patient care.
Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant Jobs and Employment Outlook
The job outlook for CAA (Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant) is highly favorable due to the ongoing demand for anesthesia services in various medical settings. CAAs can work in:
- Hospitals and Surgical Centers: Most CAAs find employment in hospitals, particularly in operating rooms, emergency departments, and labor and delivery units.
- Outpatient Clinics: CAAs also work in outpatient surgical centers where anesthesia is administered for procedures that do not require hospital admission.
- Specialty Practices: Some CAAs are employed in specialty practices, such as pain management or pediatric anesthesia, where they provide tailored anesthesia care.
With the increasing demand for anesthesia services and a growing focus on patient safety, CAAs have numerous opportunities to advance their careers, and they may pursue roles such as clinical educators, program directors, or leadership positions within healthcare institutions.
Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a CAA (Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant) program and subsequent certification, candidates must meet specific requirements:
- Bachelor's Degree: Candidates must have a bachelor's degree, preferably in a science or healthcare-related field.
- Relevant Coursework: Courses in chemistry, physics, biology, and mathematics are often prerequisites for admission.
- Healthcare Experience: Some programs prefer applicants with prior healthcare experience, such as volunteering in medical settings or working as a certified nurse assistant (CNA) or emergency medical technician (EMT).
- Certifying Exam: After completing an accredited program, candidates must pass the NCCAA certification exam to practice as a certified anesthesiologist assistant.
Meeting these eligibility criteria ensures that candidates are well-prepared for the challenges of a CAA program and a career in anesthesiology.
CAA: Pros and Cons
Pros
- CAA certification validates expertise recognized by employers nationwide
- Certified professionals typically earn 15-20% higher salaries
- Opens doors to advanced positions and leadership roles
- Demonstrates commitment to professional standards and ethics
- Builds a strong professional network through certification communities
Cons
- Exam preparation typically requires 2-4 months of dedicated study
- Certification and exam fees can range from $150-$500+
- Must complete continuing education to maintain active certification
- Pass rates vary — thorough preparation is essential for success
- Some certifications require prerequisite experience or education
What is the average salary of a Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant?
The average salary for a CAA ranges from $120,000 to $150,000, with experienced professionals earning up to $180,000 or more, depending on location and experience.
How long does it take to become a Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant?
Completing a CAA program typically takes 24 to 28 months, and candidates need a bachelor's degree and relevant prerequisites before entering a program.
What are the job prospects for CAAs?
CAAs have excellent job prospects due to the high demand for anesthesia services in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and specialty practices.
What are the eligibility requirements for becoming a CAA?
Candidates must have a bachelor's degree, relevant coursework in science, and pass the NCCAA certification exam. Some programs may also prefer candidates with healthcare experience.
How many questions are on the CAA?
The NCCAA Certification Exam has 180 multiple-choice items in two 90-item blocks, and 30 of them are unscored pretest items. (Verified Oct 21, 2026 against National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants.)
How much does the CAA cost?
Registration for the NCCAA Certification Exam for Anesthesiologist Assistants costs $1,400, or $1,775 for late registration. (Verified Oct 21, 2026 against National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants.)
When is the next CAA test date?
The next NCCAA Certification Exam for Anesthesiologist Assistants runs February 9–13, 2027, at Pearson test centers. (Verified Oct 21, 2026 against National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants.)