Step-by-Step Process to Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in California

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) support patients with daily care and help healthcare teams run smoothly. If you’re thinking about joining the field, California offers a straightforward path to certification, and LA Skills Academy makes the journey easier with flexible training options.

CONTACT US

Here’s Exactly How To Become

a CNA in California

Step 1: Make Sure You Meet the Basic Requirements

Before you start any training, California requires that you meet a few eligibility guidelines.

Requirements Before Registration:

• At least 16 years of age or older

• Valid Social Security Number or ITIN

Requirements After Registration:

• Physical, TB Test, Flu Shot (During Flu Season), Proof of Covid Vaccine + Booster (current season)

• Background Check

View the full details of our requirements: Nurse Assistant Training Catalog/Student Handbook

View the system requirements for the online aspects of our program: System Requirements

Step 2: Enroll in a State-Approved CNA Training Program

Once you meet the basic requirements, it’s time to start your training. The state requires 160 total hours, 60 in the classroom and 100 in clinical settings. At LA Skills Academy, you’ll get hands-on training from experienced nurses who prepare you for real patient care. You'll learn about:

• Infection control

• Patient safety

• Basic nursing skills

• Communication

• Legal and ethical standards

  
  

Then you’ll practice what you’ve learned in a healthcare setting. You’ll help patients with bathing, dressing, mobility, and more; all under the supervision of a licensed nurse.

Explore New Locations

Step 3: Complete Your CNA Training

You must finish all 160 required hours to be eligible for the exam. LA Skills Academy helps you stay on track with support every step of the way.

During training, you'll gain confidence in:

• Taking vital signs

• Moving and transferring patients safely

• Feeding and dressing patients

• Reporting changes in patient condition

• Responding to emergencies

• Communicating with patients and healthcare teams

The clinical portion is where it all comes together. You’ll work in a facility with real patients, building the skills you’ll use daily as a CNA.

Step 4: Apply for the CNA

Certification Exam

After completing your training, you’ll apply to take the California CNA certification exam. Our team can help you get the paperwork ready. You’ll send in:

• Proof that you completed a state-approved training program

• Your fingerprint clearance

• A valid photo ID and Social Security number

Once your application is processed, you’ll receive your an email from the testing site to schedule your test date and select your testing location.

Step 5: Take and Pass the CNA Exam

The exam has two parts: a written section and a skills test.

• The written (or oral) test includes 60 - 70 multiple-choice questions about CNA duties

• The skills test requires you to demonstrate five hands-on tasks, such as handwashing, taking blood pressure, or assisting with mobility etc.

A nurse evaluator will score your performance. To pass, you need to complete both sections successfully.

Practice makes a big difference. Review your notes, watch skills videos, and rehearse procedures with classmates or friends.

Step 6: Get Listed on the California Nurse Aide Registry

After you pass the exam, your name will be added to the California Nurse Aide Registry. This listing shows employers that you're certified and eligible to work.

You can check your status online through the California Department of Public Health. It may take a few weeks after testing, so check back regularly.

Step 7: Start Your CNA Career

Once you’re listed on the California Nurse Aide Registry, you can begin applying for jobs. Your nurse assistant certification proves that you’ve completed both classroom training and supervised clinical training through a state-approved nurse assistant training program.

CNAs work in a variety of settings, including:

• Hospitals

• Nursing homes

• Assisted living facilities

• Home healthcare agencies

• Rehab centers

To land your first role, update your resume with your clinical experience, nurse assistant certification, and any additional skills you picked up during training.

In California, CNAs typically earn between $18 and $25 per hour, depending on location, experience, and employer type. As you gain experience, you can explore advanced roles like Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), Registered Nurse (RN), or move into healthcare leadership positions.

Step 8: Renew Your Certification Every

Two Years

California requires CNAs to renew their certification every two years. To stay active, you need to:

• Work at least one paid day as a CNA during the renewal period

• Complete 48 hours of continuing education Units (CEU's) - at least 12 hours each year

• Submit your renewal application to the California Department of Public Health

If your certification expires, you might need to retake the exam or even the training program, depending on how long it’s been inactive.

Explore New Locations

Ready to Get Started?

LA Skills Academy offers flexible CNA training programs that fit your schedule; day, evening, and weekend classes included. Whether you're switching careers or starting fresh out of high school, this is a direct, rewarding path into healthcare.

Start your journey toward becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant today with LA Skills Academy.

Start Your CNA Career with LA Skills Academy

At LA Skills Academy, we provide a comprehensive CNA training program that gives you the tools to succeed. Our courses are designed to prepare you for a successful nursing assistant career in Los Angeles and beyond. With personalized instruction, job placement assistance, and expert guidance, we help you every step of the way. If you're ready to start your journey toward becoming a certified nursing assistant, LA Skills Academy is the right choice for your training.

Need a BLS certification or start taking CEUs - join Los Angeles Skills Academy! Find an LA Skills Academy class near you. Our instructors with valuable experience and knowledge from the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association will make your education process enjoyable.

Easy enrollment process and unlimited support during and after your classes.

Experience the class and read LA Skills Academy reviews.

Get started now!

• Register for the RNA Course today

• Find a BLS/CPR Class near you 

• Start your CEU courses

• Join the upcoming EKG/HHA class waitlist

For questions, contact us (213)-444-8997 or email us at office@laskillsacademy.com

Ready to take the next step? Enroll at LA Skills Academy today and be part of the future of healthcare in Los Angeles.

CONTACT US