How long does it take to become a CNA in California?
Program Length: CNA career programs in California are 6 to 12 weeks in length and require more hours than programs in many other states. Programs include classroom and clinical work. They also prepare students to complete the NNAAP Competency Exam required by the state.
Where can I find CNA training programs in California?
Such programs are offered by community colleges, allied health institutes, career colleges and stand-alone CNA training centers from Sacramento and San Francisco to Los Angeles and San Diego. For specific information, click on our CNA Training Programs Admissions page.
How many hours of CNA training does Red Cross offer?
Red Cross offers 164 hours of CNA classes and fieldwork. However, if you’d rather not take courses with the Red Cross, there are plenty of other options for in person or online CNA training in California.
What is the curriculum of CNA training?
The curriculum of CNA training is normally divided into segments covering topics on charting, physical assessments, nutrition, measurements, resident care, vital signs, medical and surgical nursing, body mechanics, patient’s rights, patient care, rehabilitation, and emergency procedures.
How long is CNA training?
between four and 12 weeksGenerally, most certified nursing assistant programs take between four and 12 weeks. This is broken into instructional hours and clinical practice. A typical 120-hour CNA program offered over six weeks may include four weeks in class and two weeks in a clinical setting, depending on state guidelines.
How much do CNA classes cost in California?
between $500 and $1800Cost. You should expect to pay between $500 and $1800 for a Certified Nursing Assistant training program. Additional costs include classroom fees, uniforms, and textbooks. The California Department of Public Health website has a listing of approved CNA programs.
How do I get my CNA license in California?
In order to become a CNA, the candidate must complete a California Department of Public Health approved nursing assistant training program and complete the competency evaluation exam. The nursing assistant program will consist of at least 60 hours of theory and 100 clinical hours of hands-on supervised training.
How long are most CNA programs?
between four and 12 weeksWhile the answer isn't exactly cut and dry, most CNA certification programs take between four and 12 weeks to complete. Some might take longer, though, even up to six months or more.
How much does CNA make an hour?
How Much Do CNAs Make per Hour? The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the average CNA salary per hour was $14.82 in 2020. Major CNA job websites have slightly different numbers for the hourly wages, with Payscale showing the CNA pay rate as $13.65 per hour, with Indeed reporting $15.35.
Can you take the CNA test without classes in California?
Educational Requirements A prospective CNA will complete an approved program unless he or she can demonstrate equivalent training in another healthcare field. Approved California programs include at least 60 hours of classroom instruction and 100 hours of supervised training.
How much does a certified nursing assistant make per hour in California?
The average salary for a nursing assistant is $21.00 per hour in California and $5,250 overtime per year.
How do I start a CNA school in California?
How to Start a CNA SchoolObtain start-up funds for a school. ... Purchase or lease a facility. ... Employ staff for the school. ... Write the school's curriculum. ... Establish procedures and policies. ... Complete an application for accreditation. ... Outfit the school with equipment. ... Market the nurse aide school.
What does a CNA do in a hospital?
Certified nursing assistants offer help in nearly every aspect of patient care when working in hospitals. CNAs help to feed, clean, and move bedridden patients, respond to calls, measure blood pressure and other vital signs and monitor the food intake of each patient to ensure they receive enough nourishment.
Can you become a CNA online?
Many programs offer CNA classes online. However, learners must complete an in-person clinical. They may fulfill this requirement at a hospital or other healthcare setting.
Who is the Regulatory Body for CNAs in California
CNA Certification in the state of California is administered by the California Department of Public Health Center for Health Care Quality.
Who Administers the CNA Exam in California?
The CNA certification exam in California is administered by Pearson Vue.
How Much Does the California CNA Exam Cost?
Exam costs in California are: Written and Skills Evaluation – $100 Oral and Skills Evaluation – $115
Where Can I Take the CNA Exam in California?
here are regional test sites throughout the state of California that are managed by Pearson Vue.
How Much Does a CNA Get Paid in California?
he average salary of a Certified Nursing Assistant in the state of California is $39,280 according to data from the Bureau of Labor and Statistics.
How many hours of training is required for a CNA in California?
Approved California programs include at least 60 hours of classroom instruction and 100 hours of supervised training.
How old do you have to be to become a nurse assistant in California?
Individuals can be certified as young as age 16.
How long does it take to pass the knowledge and skills exam?
Candidates are expected to pass the knowledge and skills examinations within two years of program completion/ approval by the Department of Health. Otherwise, they will need retraining. Pearson VUE notes that three attempts are allowed during the two-year period.
What is the phone number for the CNA?
Those with questions can call (916) 327-2445 or email ‘cna at cdph.ca.gov’. They can leave voice mail at (916) 552-8811.
How long before a test can you reschedule?
Test takers can reschedule one time free of charge provided that they call at least two business days before the scheduled test..
What is the number to the California state testing center?
The Northern Region Testing Center can be reached at (408) 855-5203. The Southern Region Testing Center can be reached at (714) 895-8708.
What are the requirements to become a nurse aid in California?
Candidates must pass knowledge and skills tests; the knowledge test is available in written and oral formats .
How many hours of CNA training is required in California?
Red Cross offers 164 hours of CNA classes and fieldwork.
Where Can I Take the CNA Exam in California?
There are regional test sites throughout the state of California that are managed by Pearson Vue.
Who Administers the CNA Exam in California?
The CNA certification exam in California is administered by Pearson Vue. You can take a free CNA practice test on this site to help prepare yourself for the exam. Take additional practice tests using the following links.
How many questions are asked on the CNA exam in California?
CNA exams in California consist of either a 70 question exam on the written test or 60 questions on the oral test. The skills section of the exam is the clinical performance of five selected nurse assistant skills.
What are the topics covered in CNA training?
The curriculum of CNA training is normally divided into segments covering topics on charting, physical assessments, nutrition, measurements, resident care, vital signs, medical and surgical nursing, body mechanics, patient’s rights, patient care, rehabilitation, and emergency procedures. All these topics are important because they will be asked during your certification examination and you will obviously need this knowledge in your future work.
How old do you have to be to get a job in California?
The state of California requires all candidates to be at least 16 years old and have undergone a minimum training of 150 hours.
Does California offer free CNA classes?
Our listings above on this page for locations that offer free CNA classes and training in California may not work for everyone. If you’re looking for more options, the listings below include options for paid training throughout California. Additionally, there is another list of CNA classes in California available here. You can also view our listings of dedicated CNA classes in Los Angeles.
How long does it take to become a CNA in California?
California requires a total of 160 hours of theoretical and clinical training for potential CNAs. You must pass the exam for certification to become certified as well. There are paid CNA programs as well as some no cost cna training opportunities. You’ll find many free training options for California below:
What is the Cal Grant Program?
Cal Grant Program. Rancho Cordova, CA 95741-9027 Phone: 1-888-224-7268. The Cal Grant is a perfect way to pay for your CNA training. This grant covers tuition costs up to $12,192 which is more than enough for an intensive nurse aide course.
Is there a CNA program in California?
There are paid CNA programs as well as some no cost cna training opportunities. You’ll find many free training options for California below: 1) Some high schools in California train students who do not intend to attend college for careers that do not require a degree.
Do nursing homes provide CNA training?
Note: These nursing homes DO NOT Provide CNA training directly. They do not provide free training but are a good place to start your search particularly those who have active CNA vacancies.
Is Providence a good CNA school?
Students find the owners very personable and feel as if they really care about their students and their ability to become a CNA. Men and women who have completed the CNA program thank Priscilla for her superb teaching skills. In fact, several students have commented that even though the material can be difficult she presents it in such a way that it is easy to understand and learn. Priscilla is said to be very patient with her students especially if they need a little extra help for a particular concept. The school has an excellent success rate in terms of the percentage of students who go on to pass their CNA certification exam. Students state that Priscilla and the other instructors teach so well that the students have confidence when sitting for their certification exam. Many men and women who review the website said they are given the knowledge and experience needed to become excellent nursing assistants when they start their new career. Providence also receives excellent reviews for the instruction they receive on the clinical level. They are able to learn first-hand how to provide quality care for patients of all ages and a range of medical settings.
Does California offer CNA training?
2) Nursing care facilities in the state of California often offer the potential for Low cost cna training.
How long does it take to get a CNA certificate?
You must allow a minimum of thirty (30) days for CDPH to receive your examination results from the testing vendor. Once you have successfully passed the examination, maintained criminal record clearance, and the results from the testing vendor have been received, CDPH will issue a current CNA certificate.
How old do you have to be to become a CNA?
How to Complete Your Initial Application. An applicant for certification as a CNA shall comply with each of the following: Be at least sixteen (16) years of age.
How to get fingerprints in California?
Obtain your fingerprints in California utilizing a Live Scan Agency and submit a copy of the completed Request for Live Scan Service (BCIA 8016) (PDF) . Please also download the Request for Live Scan Service Sample (BCIA 8016 Sample) (PDF), which will show you how to correctly complete the BCIA 8016 form.
How many hours of CEUs are required for a CDPH 283C?
Submit a completed Renewal Application (CDPH 283C) (PDF) along with documentation (CDPH 283A) (PDF) showing your completion of forty-eight (48) hours of In-Service Training/Continuing Education Units (CEUs) within your two (2) year certification period. A minimum of twelve (12) of the forty-eight (48) hours shall be completed in each year of the two (2) year certification period. A maximum of twenty-four (24) of the forty-eight (48) hours may be obtained only through a CDPH-approved online computer training program . You may submit the application by mail or by faxing it to our department.
What is the PCB for nurse assistants?
Certified Nurse Assistant. The Professional Certification Branch (PCB), Aide and Technician Certification Section (ATCS) is primarily responsible for the certification of nurse assistants by ensuring applicants adhere to the California Health and Safety Code, Section 1337-1338.5.
Is California aware of the concerns of certified nurse assistants?
The California Department of Public Health is aware of the concerns of the State's Certified Nurse Assistants due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and we are working diligently to address these concerns. We thank you for your patience during this time.
How long does it take to get a CNA certification?
To get to the stage where you are ready in 4-6 weeks, you do need to apply yourself fully and be prepared to absorb all the information given to you. While you may feel the need to rush to obtain your goals, ...
How long does it take to become a CNA?
The shortest form of the answer is, you can become a CNA anywhere from 6 weeks up to 6 months and beyond.
How much does a CNA make an hour?
As a national average, a CNA will earn around $12.22 per hour, but this can rise to approximately $19 per hour, depending on the industry. The highest paying sector for CNAs is generally in the science and research service. The other industries you can find higher rates of pay are for state government services, the federal executive branch, ...
What are the duties of a CNA?
The duties of CNAs can vary from role to role, but most include tasks like bathing, grooming, feeding, monitoring vitals, also lifting and moving patients too. The hourly rate for a CNA will generally vary dependant on the location of work and also the industry where the CNA is employed.
Why is being a CNA important?
Being a CNA appeals to so many people because of the difference they can make to people’s lives. Whether a CNA works in science and research or with the elderly, as a CNA, you are essentially one of the most influential people in your patient’s life. For most people, becoming a CNA is just the start of something, and after some time, ...
How long does a college course last?
You can, of course, take a more in-depth course which lasts up to 6 months and provides you with a more comprehensive education. It is important to remember that whether you take a four-week program or a six month one, you will only receive the same amount of credits. It is also essential that you use a state-accredited exam center ...
Is CNA class an exception?
As with the cost of everything, there are always considerations that need to be made, CNA classes are not an exception to this rule.

Select A California Certified Nurse Assistant Topic
Educational Requirements
- A prospective CNA will complete an approved program unless he or she can demonstrate equivalent training in another healthcare field. Approved California programs include at least 60 hours of classroom instruction and 100 hours of supervised training. Training can be completed in a regular employment context if it meets the requirements of state co...
Examination Requirements
- California is among the 25 states that use the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) for certification purposes. Candidates must pass knowledge and skills tests; the knowledge test is available in written and oral formats. The oral test includes ten word recognition/ reading comprehension questions in addition to 60 oral questions. The examinatio…
Criminal Background Checks
- California requires criminal background checks; the agency uses a Livescan (digital) fingerprinting process. The applicant will need to fill out form BCIA 8016, a request for Livescan services (http://ag.ca.gov/fingerprints/forms/BCIA_8016.pdf) Applicants may contact Live Scan operators for fingerprinting appointments. The Southern Regional Center has provided contact informatio…
The Application Process
- An in-state trainee will submit an application and Livescan fingerprint request before beginning the patient-care portion of the program; in some cases, the program will submit it on behalf of the student. Application forms are available on the Department of Health website (https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/LCP/Pages/CNA.aspx). Applicants for initial nurse a…
Reciprocity/ Transfer
- CNAs who are registered and in good standing in other states may be placed on the California Nursing Assistant Registry by reciprocity. The applicant will need to submit a copy of the out-of-state certificate to the California Aide and Technician Certification Section (ATCS) and submit a ‘Verification of Current Nurse Assistant Certification’ form (CDPH 931) to the current state of cer…
Additional Information
- Information about nurse assistant certification is found on the ‘Aide and Technician Certification’ page of the California Department of Public Health website (https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/LCP/Pages/CNA.aspx). Those with questions can call (916) 327-2445 or email ‘cna at cdph.ca.gov’. They can leave voice mail at (916) 552-8811. Adva…