California CNA pathway: be at least 16, complete a CDPH-approved nurse assistant training program, clear the criminal record check, complete the application process, and pass the required competency evaluation. California-approved nurse assistant programs require at least 160 hours: 60 hours of classroom theory and 100 hours of supervised clinical training.

1. Check eligibility and physical requirements

CDPH lists a minimum age of 16 and a criminal record check. Individual schools and clinical sites may also require health screening, TB clearance, immunization records, CPR, physical capability documentation, or other onboarding items.

2. Find a CDPH-approved program

Search the official CDPH program directory or active training-provider verification tool. Programs may be offered by community colleges, adult schools, private career schools, nursing facilities, and other approved providers.

Before enrolling, confirm the exact campus and program. Ask whether tuition includes books, uniforms, physical exams, Live Scan, testing, and clinical placement.

3. Complete 160 hours of training

California’s program minimum is 160 hours, including 60 hours of classroom theory and 100 hours of supervised clinical training. Approved online providers may offer online classroom content, but clinical and hands-on requirements still apply.

4. Complete the application and Live Scan steps

CDPH provides online and mail application options. Its current online guidance says initial applications submitted online are processed the same day, but certification still depends on completing the remaining training, testing, background, and documentation requirements.

5. Pass the competency evaluation

The state-approved testing process includes knowledge and skills evaluation. Use the current CDPH testing-vendor page for registration, locations, fees, rescheduling, and candidate information.

6. Prepare for CNA jobs

CNA jobs may be found in skilled nursing, rehabilitation, hospitals, long-term care, home health, hospice, and other patient-care environments. Compare staffing, assignment size, lifting support, shift differentials, orientation, training, and advancement.

Questions about cost and program quality

  • What is the complete cost through exam and certification?
  • Does the school arrange the clinical site?
  • What happens if I miss clinical training?
  • What are recent completion and exam outcomes?
  • Is job placement assistance included?
  • Does the program appear active in CDPH verification?

Official California resources

Use these official California sources to verify requirements and complete the next step.

California CNA initial applicationOfficial CDPH eligibility and application steps.Find CDPH-approved CNA programsSearch California’s current approved nurse assistant training programs by county.Approved online CNA theory providersCDPH list of approved programs offering an online classroom component. Clinical training still requires approved hands-on instruction.California CNA testing vendorsFind the current state-approved testing vendor and exam information.Verify a CNA or HHA training providerUse CDPH’s active training-provider verification search.

Frequently asked questions

How many hours is CNA training in California?

California requires at least 160 hours: 60 hours of classroom theory and 100 hours of supervised clinical training.

Can I become a CNA fully online?

No. CDPH lists approved online theory providers, but the pathway includes hands-on skills and supervised clinical training.

How old do I have to be?

CDPH’s initial application guidance states applicants must be at least 16 years old.

Where do I find approved programs?

Use the CDPH approved CNA program directory and active training-provider verification system.

Free and low-cost CNA training →CNA pay in California →CNA vs HHA vs caregiver →Caregiver career paths →

Help build a more transparent care industry

Join California caregivers helping AidMates make pay, training, scheduling, and workplace experiences easier to understand.

Join HereLearn About Reviews