How to Become an HHA in New York
Step-by-step guide to get your New York HHA (Home Health Aide) certification. Includes requirements, costs, where to train, and what HHAs earn in NY.
New York HHA Requirements
- Minimum age: 18 years old
- Education: High school diploma or GED (some programs include GED prep)
- Background check: Clean background required (felonies related to patient care disqualify)
- Training: 120 hours of training (about 6-12 weeks depending on the program) — one of the highest requirements in the country
- Exam: Pass written competency exam (50 questions) + skills demonstration
- Registry: Listed on NYS Home Care Services Worker Registry (SCHR)
Step 1: Find an Approved Training Program
New York requires your training to be through a DOH-approved program. Programs are available at:
- Community colleges (CUNY, SUNY, local colleges)
- Technical and vocational schools
- Accredited online training centers
- Home care agencies with integrated programs
Cost: $500–$2,500 depending on the program. Community colleges often offer lower-cost options.
Duration: 120 hours (typically 6-12 weeks full-time, or longer part-time)
See approved New York HHA training programs →
Step 2: Complete Your Supervised Clinical Hours
Part of your 120 hours must be direct clinical supervision (in an actual home or care facility with a supervisor). This cannot be simulation — it must be with a real patient under supervision.
Step 3: Pass the Exam
The New York competency exam includes:
- Written portion: 50 multiple-choice questions on HHA knowledge
- Skills portion: Demonstration of 5-6 key skills (personal hygiene, safe transfer, infection control, etc.)
You need: 70% or higher on the written exam and satisfactory skills demonstration.
Prepare with real practice questions. Do not just memorize terms — understand how to apply them. Take a full timed practice exam before exam day.
Step 4: Register with NYS SCHR
After you pass, you register with the Home Care Services Worker Registry (SCHR). Without this registration, you cannot legally work as an HHA in New York and bill through Medicaid.
Registration cost: Usually free or minimal fee
HHA Salary in New York
According to the BLS, Home Health Aides in New York earn an average of $32,000–$38,000 per year, varying by experience, location, and employer type (agency vs. private).
- New York City (Manhattan, Brooklyn): $35,000–$42,000
- Suburbs (Queens, Westchester): $32,000–$38,000
- Upstate: $28,000–$34,000
Next Steps
- Pick a training program. Search for DOH-approved programs at nearby community colleges or training centers.
- Enroll and complete training. Most programs start monthly.
- Prepare for the exam. Use real practice questions and take a full mock exam.
- Pass the exam. 70% on written, satisfactory skills demo.
- Register with SCHR. Apply for registration through the New York DOH website.
New York has high HHA demand. The path is clear: find an approved program, complete the 120 hours (including supervised clinical practice), pass the exam, and register. In 6-12 weeks you could be earning $32,000+ in New York.
Practice for the NY Exam
PassHHA offers a free New York-specific practice exam with real exam-style questions and instant feedback.