California HHA Practice Test 2026

California requires 150 hours — the highest in the nation — regulated by CDPH. Includes at least 50 hours of clinical/hands-on training.

All California HHA training programs must be approved by the state. Upon completing your training and passing the competency evaluation, your name will be added to the CDPH Home Health Aide Certification. Employers verify certification through this registry.

The competency evaluation in California tests knowledge across 7 core domains: Infection Control, Personal Care, Safety & Emergency, Nutrition, Communication, Legal & Ethics, and Basic Skills.

The California HHA competency exam follows national HHA curriculum standards. Focus your study on these high-frequency topics:

• Infection Control (highest frequency) — Standard Precautions, handwashing technique, PPE donning/doffing, isolation types
• Safety & Emergency — Fall prevention, fire safety (RACE/PASS), seizure response, body mechanics
• Personal Care Skills — Bathing procedures, oral care, perineal care, positioning patients
• Vital Signs — Normal ranges for BP, pulse, respiration, temperature, and SpO2
• Legal & Ethical Standards — Patient rights, HIPAA, abuse/neglect reporting, scope of practice
• Nutrition — Special diets, dysphagia, documenting intake, assisting with meals

How many training hours does California require for HHA certification?

California requires 150 hours of approved HHA training, including at least 50 hours of supervised clinical practice. Training must be completed through a state-approved program.

What is the passing score for the California HHA exam?

Most California HHA competency evaluations require a score of at least 70% to pass. You must pass both the written test and the clinical skills demonstration.

How many questions are on the California HHA exam?

The California HHA exam format is: Written exam (60 questions) + skills demonstration. Question counts can vary by test provider, but expect a written knowledge test of 40–100 questions plus a practical skills evaluation.

Can I take the California HHA exam online?

Most states, including California, require in-person competency evaluations — particularly the skills demonstration component. Some states may offer oral testing as an alternative to written tests. Check with your training program or the CDPH Home Health Aide Certification for current options.

How long does California HHA certification last?

HHA certification is typically renewed every 1–2 years. California requires HHAs to complete annual in-service training (usually 12 hours) to maintain active certification on the registry.