CNA Classes in California

Are you considering a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in California? You're making a great choice! CNAs play a vital role in the healthcare system, providing essential care to patients and supporting nurses and other medical staff. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming a CNA in the Golden State, from training requirements to job prospects.

Working as a CNA in California

California offers a wealth of opportunities for CNAs due to its large population and extensive healthcare facilities. CNAs in California earn some of the highest salaries in the country. Here’s how the average salaries for CNAs in California compare to Florida and the rest of the country:

• California: CNAs in California earn some of the highest wages in the country for this profession. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as of May 2022, the average annual salary for CNAs in California is approximately $38,450, which equates to about $18.49 per hour.
• Florida: In contrast, CNAs in Florida earn less than the national average. The average annual salary in Florida is about $29,840, or $14.35 per hour.
• National Average: Across the United States, the average annual salary for CNAs is around $33,250, or $15.98 per hour.

Finding Approved CNA Classes in California

California has numerous state-approved CNA programs offered through community colleges, vocational schools, and healthcare facilities. When selecting a program, consider the following:

• Accreditation: Ensure the program is approved by the CDPH. 
• Curriculum: The program should cover essential topics like patient care, infection control, and emergency procedures. 
• Cost: Tuition can vary widely, so explore financial aid options if needed. 
• Location and Schedule: Choose a program that fits your lifestyle and is conveniently located.

You can use the tool below to find a program that fits your needs:

California CNA Certification Requirements

To become a CNA in California, you must meet specific state requirements:

1. Age and Education: You must be at least 16 years old and have completed high school or possess a GED equivalent. 
2. Training Program: Complete a state-approved CNA training program consisting of at least 60 hours of classroom instruction and 100 hours of supervised clinical training. The program must be approved by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). 
3. Background Check: Submit fingerprints for a criminal background check conducted by the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the FBI. 
4. Health Screening: Undergo a physical examination and test negative for tuberculosis. 
5. Competency Exam: Pass the California Nursing Assistant Competency Exam, which includes both written and skills evaluation components. 

Source: California Department of Public Health - Aide and Technician Certification Section

Transferring Your CNA License from Florida to California (CNA by Endorsement)

If you're already a licensed CNA in Florida and wish to transfer your certification to California, you can apply for CNA certification by reciprocity. Here's how:

1. Complete the Application: Fill out the CDPH 283 E application form for reciprocity. 
2. Verification of Certification: Provide proof of your current CNA certification in Florida, ensuring it's active and in good standing. This is done by having the Florida Board of Nursing fill out CDPH 931. 
3. Background Check: Submit fingerprints for a criminal background check via Live Scan. 
4. Submit Required Documents: Include copies of your Florida CNA License and any other requested documentation. 
5. No Additional Exam Required: If approved, you won't need to retake the competency exam in California.

Note: Processing times can vary, so it's advisable to begin the application process well in advance of your intended start date in California.

Source: CDPH - CNA Equivalency/Reciprocity Application

Challenging the State Exam Without Completing an Accredited Course

In California, certain individuals may be eligible to challenge the CNA competency exam without completing a traditional CNA training program:

1. Nursing Students: If you've completed equivalent training as part of a nursing education program (such as RN or LVN programs), you may qualify to take the exam directly. 
2. Military Personnel: Individuals with medical training and experience in the military may also be eligible.

Steps to Challenge the Exam:

• Submit an Equivalency Application: Complete the CDPH 283 E application form for equivalency. 
• Provide Documentation: Include transcripts, training records, or other proof of equivalent education and training. 
• Background Check and Health Screening: Same requirements as traditional applicants.

Important: Approval to challenge the exam is at the discretion of the CDPH. Ensure all documentation is thorough and submitted promptly.

Source: CDPH - CNA Equivalency Application

Online CNA Classes in California

California residents do not have the path available that Florida residents have of directly challenging the CNA exam without having taken any accredited nursing program. Having said that, individuals can transfer a valid and active Florida CNA license to California, and obtain their license that way. An individual can therefore take our course, pass the in person state exam in Florida and obtain their Florida CNA license, and then transfer that license to California without issue. Note that final approval is still subject to the California Department of Public Health approval, but everything indicates that this is a viable option.

The California CNA Certification Exam

After completing your training, you'll need to pass the state competency exam administered by the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP). The exam has two parts:

1. Written (or Oral) Test: Consists of multiple-choice questions covering nursing concepts. 
2. Skills Test: Demonstrate hands-on nursing skills in a clinical setting.

California uses the National Nurse Aid Assessment Program (NNAP) which is administered by Pearson Vue, as opposed to the Prometric exam used in Florida and in several other states.

Continuing Education and Career Advancement

Once certified, CNAs in California must renew their certification every two years, which includes completing 48 hours of continuing education. Additionally, many CNAs use their experience as a stepping stone to advance in the nursing field.