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If you want information about CNA licensing in California, this guide is for you! Find out how to earn and maintain your CNA license in the state. In this guide, you'll learn about CNA certification requirements and the steps for renewal, verification, reciprocity, and more. Let's begin.
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CNA Certification Requirements in California
These are the CNA certification requirements in California:
- Age: Be at least 16 years old.
- Education: No high school diploma or equivalent required.
- CNA Training Program: Complete a CNA program approved by the CDPH with 120 hours of classroom and clinical training.
- Criminal Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check and fingerprinting.
- Immunizations & Health Screening: Provide proof of up-to-date immunizations and a negative TB test or chest x-ray.
- CPR Certification: Hold a valid CPR certification, typically Basic Life Support (BLS).
- Competency Assessment: Pass a competency evaluation exam consisting of a written or oral portion and a skills demonstration test.
- English Language Proficiency: Demonstrate English language skills through a written or oral assessment.
How to Get Your CNA Certification in California
To obtain your CNA certification in California, you need to follow this step-by-step process:
- Research the requirements: Familiarize yourself with the CNA certification requirements set by the CDPH. Ensure that you meet the age requirement and educational prerequisites.
- Complete a state-approved CNA program: Enroll in a CDPH-approved CNA training program that provides 120 hours of comprehensive training.
- Submit an application: Submit an application to the CDPH with personal information, educational background details, and documentation of completing an approved training program.
- Undergo a criminal background check: Undergo a criminal background check and fingerprinting.
- Complete required immunizations and health screening: Get up-to-date immunizations, including MMR, varicella, and hepatitis B.
- Obtain CPR certification: Obtain CPR certification from an approved provider to be prepared for emergency situations.
- Schedule and pass the competency evaluation: Schedule and take the CNA competency evaluation, which consists of a written or oral exam and a skills demonstration test.
- Apply for certification: Apply for your CNA certification after successfully passing the competency evaluation.
- Receive your CNA certification: Receive your CNA certification from the CDPH once your application is processed and approved.
How to Verify Your CNA Certification in California
To verify your CNA certification in California, follow these steps:
- Visit the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Website: Go to the official website of the California Department of Public Health at https://www.cdph.ca.gov/ to access the CNA certification verification resources.
- Access the License Verification Page: Look for a dedicated section on the website specifically for license verification or search for "CNA certification verification" within the site. The CDPH may provide a direct link to the verification page or instructions on how to access it.
- Enter the Required Information: On the license verification page, you will typically be prompted to provide specific information to initiate the verification process. This may include the CNA's full name, certification number, and other identifying details.
- Submit the Information: Fill in the requested information accurately and completely. Before submitting the form, double-check all the details to ensure there are no errors.
- Confirm the Verification: Once you submit the information, the system will process your request and verify the CNA certification status. The verification process usually takes a few moments, depending on the system's response time.
- Review the Verification Results: After the verification process is complete, the system will display the results indicating the certification status of the CNA. The results may indicate whether the certification is active, expired, or if there are any disciplinary actions against the CNA.
- Print or Save the Verification: If desired, you can print or save a copy of the verification results for your records. This can be useful for future reference or employment purposes.
How to Renew Your CNA Certification in California
To renew your CNA certification in California, follow these steps:
- Check the Expiration Date: Stay informed about the expiration date of your CNA certification. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) issues certifications that are valid for two years. Note the specific date when your certification is set to expire.
- Complete the Renewal Application: Approximately two to three months before your certification expires, the CDPH will mail you a renewal application to the address on file. If you haven't received the application, you can contact the CDPH to request one or download it from their website.
- Fill out the Application: Thoroughly complete the renewal application form with accurate information. Provide all the necessary details, including your personal information, certification number, and any other required information.
- Include the Renewal Fee: Along with the completed application, submit the appropriate renewal fee. The fee amount may vary, so refer to the instructions provided with the application or check the CDPH website for the current fee schedule. Ensure that you include the payment in the specified form (e.g., check, money order).
- Submit the Application: Send the completed application and renewal fee to the address specified on the renewal form or follow the submission instructions provided by the CDPH. To ensure the application reaches its destination, it's recommended to use a trackable mailing method.
- Await Confirmation and New Certificate: Once the CDPH receives and processes your renewal application successfully, you will receive a new CNA certification. The new certification will have an updated expiration date reflecting your renewal.
- Keep a Copy of the Renewal: Make copies of your renewed CNA certification for your personal records. This will serve as proof of your active certification status.
How to Reinstate Your CNA Certification in California
If your CNA certification in California has lapsed or expired, you have the opportunity to reinstate it. Here are the general steps to reinstate your CNA certification in California:
- Check Eligibility Requirements: Determine if you meet the eligibility criteria for reinstatement. The specific requirements for reinstatement may vary depending on the length of time your certification has been expired and any additional conditions set by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).
- Complete Required Continuing Education: If your certification has lapsed for a certain period, you may need to complete a specific number of hours of continuing education (CE) in approved nursing-related topics. The CDPH will specify the number of hours and the timeframe within which the CE must be completed.
- Update Immunizations and Health Screenings: Ensure that your immunizations, including MMR, varicella, and hepatitis B, are up to date. Additionally, provide a negative TB test or chest x-ray, as required by the CDPH.
- Obtain a Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check, including fingerprinting, as part of the reinstatement process. Note that certain criminal convictions may affect your eligibility for reinstatement.
- Submit an Application for Reinstatement: Obtain the reinstatement application from the CDPH or their website. Fill out the application accurately and completely, providing all required information. Include any necessary documentation, such as proof of completed continuing education.
- Pay the Reinstatement Fee: Submit the required fee along with your application. The fee amount may vary, so refer to the instructions provided with the application or check the CDPH website for the current fee schedule.
- Mail or Submit the Application: Send the completed application, fee, and any supporting documentation to the address specified on the reinstatement application form or follow the submission instructions provided by the CDPH. If necessary, use a trackable mailing method to ensure delivery.
- Await Confirmation and New Certificate: Once the CDPH receives and processes your reinstatement application, they will review your eligibility and determine if your certification can be reinstated. If your reinstatement is approved, you will receive a new CNA certification with an updated expiration date.
How to Transfer Your CNA Certification from California to Another State
If you're looking to transfer your CNA certification from California to another state, follow these steps:
- Research the Requirements: Start by researching the requirements for CNA certification in the state where you plan to transfer. Each state has its own regulations and criteria for CNA certification, so it's important to familiarize yourself with their specific requirements.
- Contact the New State's Nursing Board: Get in touch with the nursing board or regulatory agency in the state where you intend to transfer your CNA certification. They will provide you with information about their reciprocity or endorsement process and guide you through the necessary steps.
- Obtain the Application: Request an application for reciprocity or endorsement from the nursing board of the new state. The application form may be available on their website, or you might need to contact them directly to obtain it.
- Complete the Application: Fill out the application form accurately and thoroughly. Provide all the required information, including your personal details, contact information, and details about your CNA certification in California.
- Submit Supporting Documentation: Alongside the application, you will likely need to submit supporting documentation. This can include proof of your CNA certification in California, such as a copy of your certification card or a verification form from the California Department of Public Health. Additionally, you may be required to provide documents like identification, proof of education, and a background check.
- Pay any Fees: Most states charge a fee for the reciprocity or endorsement process. Check with the new state's nursing board for the exact fee amount and acceptable payment methods. Include the fee with your application, following the provided instructions.
- Await Processing: After submitting your application and required documents, the new state's nursing board will review your application and verify the information provided. The processing time may vary, so be patient while waiting for a response.
- Fulfill Additional Requirements: The new state may have additional requirements that need to be fulfilled before transferring your CNA certification. This can include undergoing a criminal background check, providing proof of continuing education, or completing additional training or exams. Make sure to comply with all additional requirements specified by the new state.
- Receive Approval and New Certification: Once your application is approved, you will receive a new CNA certification from the nursing board of the new state. This new certification will allow you to work as a CNA in that state.
California Nurse Aide Registry
If you have additional questions, contact the California Nurse Aide Registry at:
California Department of Public Health
Licensing & Certification Program
PO Box 997416, MS 3301, Sacramento, CA 95899
Phone: (916) 327-2445
Fax: (916) 552-8785
Verification Link
State-Approved CNA Programs in California
If you are interested in attending a CNA program in California, consider the following schools that can provide you with the necessary training.
