CNA Classes in California | Certified Nursing Assistant Training Programs

CDPH-Approved Programs

CNA Classes & Training Programs in California

Launch your healthcare career in the Golden State with state-approved certification programs. California offers the nation's largest healthcare job market and competitive wages for CNAs.

Find Programs Near You How to Get Certified

160

Training Hours Required

$120

State Exam Fee

$43,570

Average Annual Salary

8-12

Weeks to Complete

About CNA Certification in California

The Nation's Largest Healthcare Job Market

California offers unparalleled opportunities for Certified Nursing Assistants, with the nation's largest healthcare workforce and some of the highest wages in the country. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) oversees CNA certification through its Aide and Technician Certification Section (ATCS), requiring completion of a state-approved training program and successful passage of the competency evaluation administered by Pearson VUE.

From world-renowned medical centers in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego to community hospitals and skilled nursing facilities throughout the state, California's diverse healthcare landscape provides CNAs with countless employment options. The state's strong minimum wage laws and healthcare worker protections make California particularly attractive for nursing assistants seeking competitive compensation and career advancement opportunities.

Highest CNA employment levels in the nation (100,000+)

Strong worker protections and staffing ratio laws

California Community Colleges offer affordable training

Multiple career pathways to LVN and RN

California CNA Quick Facts

Training Hours 160 hours minimum

Theory Hours 60 hours

Clinical Hours 100 hours

Exam Format 60 questions + 5 skills

Exam Fee $120 (written + skills)

Regulatory Body CDPH-ATCS

Registry CA Nurse Aide Registry

Training Programs

Find CNA Training Programs in California

Browse CDPH-approved nursing assistant training programs throughout California. Programs are available at community colleges, Regional Occupational Programs (ROPs), adult schools, and private vocational institutions across the state.

Browse CNA Schools in California

Explore our directory of CDPH-approved nursing assistant training programs. Filter by location, cost, and program type to find the perfect fit for your career goals.

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Certification Process

How to Become a CNA in California

Follow these three steps to earn your CNA certification and start your healthcare career in California.

Complete Approved Training

Enroll in a Nurse Assistant Training Program (NATP) approved by the California Department of Public Health. California requires a minimum of 160 total training hours—60 hours of theory (classroom) instruction plus 100 hours of supervised clinical experience. This exceeds federal minimums and is one of the more comprehensive requirements in the nation. Training is available through the California Community College system (over 100 campuses), Regional Occupational Programs (ROPs), adult education centers, and numerous private vocational schools. The American Red Cross also offers CDPH-approved programs at multiple California locations.

Pass the State Competency Exam

After completing your training program, pass the California Nurse Assistant Competency Evaluation administered by Pearson VUE. The exam consists of two parts: a written (or oral) knowledge test with 60 multiple-choice questions and a 90-minute time limit, and a clinical skills evaluation where you demonstrate 5 randomly selected competencies. The combined exam fee is approximately $120. Testing is available at numerous Pearson VUE sites throughout California. You must pass both portions within 24 months of completing your training and have up to three attempts for each portion before remedial training is required.

Background Check & Certification

Complete a Live Scan fingerprint-based background check, which is processed through the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and FBI. Your training program will typically initiate this process. The background check typically costs $49-100 depending on the Live Scan provider. Once you pass the competency exam and clear the background check, your name is placed on the California Nurse Aide Registry maintained by CDPH-ATCS. California issues both a registry listing and a physical certification card. Your certification is valid for 24 months from the date of issue.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about CNA certification in California.

California requires 160 hours of training—one of the higher requirements in the nation—which typically takes 8-12 weeks to complete depending on program format and scheduling. Full-time accelerated programs at private vocational schools or some community colleges can be completed in as little as 4-6 weeks with intensive daily sessions, while part-time evening or weekend programs through community colleges may take 12-16 weeks or longer. The California Community College system offers some of the most affordable programs but may have longer timelines due to semester schedules. After completing your CDPH-approved training, you'll schedule your competency exam through Pearson VUE. Both the written and skills portions can often be completed on the same day, and results are typically available within 1-2 business days. The Live Scan background check process typically takes 3-7 business days for electronic results, though some cases may take longer. From enrollment to receiving your certification card, most students can become fully certified CNAs in California within 10-16 weeks. Some healthcare facilities may hire you conditionally while your certification is being processed.

CNA training costs in California vary significantly depending on the institution, ranging from under $500 at community colleges to $2,500+ at private vocational schools. California Community College programs typically cost $400-$1,200 including tuition and fees for state residents—institutions like Los Angeles City College, San Diego City College, Santa Monica College, and the numerous colleges throughout the Bay Area offer affordable options. Regional Occupational Programs (ROPs) and adult education programs may offer free or low-cost training. Private vocational schools typically charge $1,500-$2,500+ but often offer accelerated timelines and more flexible scheduling. The American Red Cross programs usually fall in the $1,200-$1,800 range. In addition to tuition, budget approximately $120 for the state competency exam, $49-100 for the Live Scan background check, plus costs for scrubs/uniforms ($50-$100), textbooks, CPR certification ($40-60), and any required immunizations or TB testing. Many healthcare facilities in California offer free CNA training in exchange for a work commitment, and workforce development funding through California Employment Development Department (EDD) or America's Job Centers of California may be available for qualifying students.

California permits hybrid CNA training programs that combine online theoretical instruction with mandatory in-person clinical hours, but fully online programs are not approved for state certification. The theory portion of your training (60 hours)—covering topics like infection control, patient rights, anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, nutrition, documentation, communication, and safety procedures—can sometimes be completed through online coursework. However, California Department of Public Health regulations strictly require that clinical training hours (100 hours minimum) be completed in person at an approved skilled nursing facility or healthcare setting under the direct supervision of a licensed nurse. This extensive hands-on component involves practicing and demonstrating competency in skills with actual patients under supervision. California's 100-hour clinical requirement is higher than most states, reflecting the state's emphasis on comprehensive hands-on preparation. When searching for programs, look for CDPH-approved hybrid options that clearly specify their online vs. in-person hour breakdown. Be cautious of any program advertising as completely online, as graduates of non-approved programs would not be eligible to take the California competency exam or be placed on the Nurse Aide Registry.

California uses Pearson VUE as its testing provider for the Nurse Assistant Competency Evaluation. The exam consists of two independently scored portions that can typically be taken on the same day. The written knowledge test contains 60 multiple-choice questions with a 90-minute time limit. Questions cover essential CNA topics including patient rights and independence, communication skills, infection control and safety, personal care skills, basic nursing skills, mental health and social service needs, restorative services, and relevant legal concepts. If you have difficulty reading English, you may request an oral exam format when scheduling. The clinical skills evaluation requires you to demonstrate competency in 5 randomly selected skills from a standardized list that includes hand hygiene, vital signs measurement (blood pressure, pulse, respirations, temperature), positioning and turning, transfers, ambulation, range of motion exercises, and various personal care tasks. A nurse evaluator observes as you perform each skill, checking for completion of critical steps and overall competency. Testing sites are located throughout California in major cities and many smaller communities. You may schedule your exam through the Pearson VUE website or by phone. Results are typically available online within 1-2 business days.

Yes, California accepts CNA certification from other states through reciprocity, but the process requires meeting specific requirements due to California's more stringent training standards. To transfer your certification, you must submit a Reciprocity Application to CDPH-ATCS along with verification of your current certification from your previous state's registry. Your out-of-state certification must be active and in good standing with no findings of abuse, neglect, or misappropriation. Because California requires 160 training hours (higher than most states), if your original training was less than 160 hours, you may be required to complete additional "bridge" training to make up the difference before being eligible for California certification. You must also complete a California Live Scan background check. The reciprocity application fee is approximately $100, and processing can take 4-8 weeks once all documentation is received. While waiting for your California certification, you cannot legally work as a CNA in California—employers are required to verify active registry status. Once approved, your California certification will follow the standard 24-month renewal cycle. Due to California's specific requirements, it's recommended to contact CDPH-ATCS directly at (916) 327-2445 to discuss your specific situation before applying, as the process can vary based on your training and certification history.

Certification Maintenance

CNA Certification Renewal in California

California CNA certification is valid for 24 months and must be renewed to remain on the Nurse Aide Registry. California has specific requirements for renewal that are more comprehensive than some other states. To renew your certification, you must have performed at least 8 hours of compensated nursing-related services within the 24-month certification period, AND you must complete at least 48 hours of in-service training or continuing education during each two-year certification period. This 48-hour continuing education requirement is unique to California and must include at least 12 hours annually in areas directly related to patient care. The renewal fee is approximately $50, and you can renew online through the CDPH-ATCS portal or by mail. California sends renewal notices approximately 90 days before your expiration date. If your certification expires because you did not meet the work or continuing education requirements, you will need to retake and pass the competency exam to regain active status. If your certification has been expired for more than 24 consecutive months, you may be required to complete a new training program before being allowed to retest. California also requires CNAs to report any criminal convictions or disciplinary actions during the renewal process. Given California's specific requirements, it's important to track your employment hours and continuing education throughout your certification period.

Renewal Fee

~$50

Renewal Period

Every 24 months

Work Requirement

8 hours in 24 months

CE Requirement

48 hours (24 hrs/year)

Career Outlook

CNA Career Opportunities in California

Nation's Largest Healthcare Job Market

California employs more CNAs than any other state in the nation, with over 100,000 nursing assistants working across the state's diverse healthcare landscape. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics data, CNAs in California earn a median salary of $43,570 per year, or approximately $20.95 per hour—significantly higher than the national average. In high-cost metropolitan areas like San Francisco, San Jose, and Los Angeles, experienced CNAs can earn $22-28 per hour or more, with premium pay for night shifts, weekends, and specialized care settings.

California's strong healthcare worker protections, including mandated nurse-to-patient staffing ratios in hospitals and skilled nursing facilities, create more CNA positions and generally better working conditions than many other states. The state's diverse population and status as a healthcare innovation hub means CNAs can find opportunities in virtually every specialty and setting—from world-renowned academic medical centers like UCLA, UCSF, and Stanford to community hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities, home health agencies, and hospice organizations.

While California's higher wages come with a higher cost of living, particularly in coastal areas, many CNAs find the combination of higher pay, stronger worker protections, and diverse career advancement opportunities makes California an attractive place to build a healthcare career. The state's community college and university systems offer excellent pathways for CNAs to advance to LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse) or RN degrees.

Average Annual Salary

$43,570

per year

$20.95/hour • #1 employment

Nearby States

Explore CNA Training in Nearby States

Looking for CNA programs in neighboring states? Check out these resources.

Resources

Official California CNA Resources

Access official state resources for CNA certification, testing, and verification.

CDPH Aide & Technician Certification

California Department of Public Health section overseeing CNA certification and training program approval.

Visit Website

California Nurse Aide Registry

Verify CNA certification status and check for any findings through the official registry lookup.

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Pearson VUE Testing

Schedule Exam

Live Scan Background Check

Find authorized Live Scan locations for your required DOJ and FBI background check.

Find Locations

CDPH-ATCS Contact

MS 3301, P.O. Box 997416
Sacramento, CA 95899

Call: (916) 327-2445

Pearson VUE Support

Contact Pearson VUE for exam scheduling, results, and testing accommodations.

Call: (800) 274-5515

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