Free California HHA Practice Test 2026

How many total training hours does California require to become a certified Home Health Aide?

How many hours of training do you need to become an HHA in California?

California requires a minimum of 120 hours of training through a CDPH-approved Home Health Aide Training Program — nearly double the 75-hour federal Medicare minimum under 42 CFR 484.80. The program consists of no more than 75 hours of classroom instruction and a recommended minimum of 61 hours of supervised clinical experience. Certified Nurse Assistants (CNAs) may qualify through an abbreviated 40-hour bridge program instead.

Is there a written exam to become a certified HHA in California?

California does not use a separate, state-administered third-party exam (such as Prometric) for HHA certification. Instead, the competency evaluation — which typically includes a written or oral knowledge test and a skills demonstration — is embedded within your CDPH-approved training program. You must pass the program's competency evaluation to receive your certificate. This is different from the CNA process.

How long does a California HHA certificate last, and how do I renew it?

A California HHA certificate is valid for two years. As updated by AB 1495 (Ch. 400, Stats. 2025, amending HSC §1736.2), you must complete at least 12 hours of in-service training during each 12-month period of the certification — 24 hours across the full two-year cycle. Online or distance learning in-service training is now permitted under conditions established by AB 1495 (synchronous delivery, identity affidavit, CDPH monitoring access); verify current CDPH guidance for approved online program requirements. You submit a renewal application (CDPH 283C) with documentation of completed training to the CDPH Healthcare Professional Certification and Training Section (HPCTS).

Can I transfer an out-of-state HHA certification to California?

No. California does not grant reciprocity for HHA certification. If you are certified as an HHA in another state, you must complete a full CDPH-approved 120-hour training program in California to obtain a California HHA certificate. Note that CNA reciprocity is separate — CNAs with an active out-of-state CNA certification may apply for endorsement onto the California Nurse Aide Registry through a different process.

How much does HHA training cost in California, and is any free training available?

Costs vary widely by program — community colleges and public vocational programs often offer the most affordable options, sometimes subsidized by workforce development grants. Home health agencies approved by CDPH to run in-house training programs sometimes offer sponsored training in exchange for a work commitment. There is no statewide free HHA training program, but prospective aides should check with their local workforce development board and community colleges for reduced-cost options.