If you’re pursuing a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in California, you need to know exactly what the state requires before you can start working. California has specific training, testing, and registry requirements that differ from other states, and getting them wrong can delay your career by weeks or months.
This guide covers everything you need to become a CNA in California in 2026 — training hours, the competency exam, state registry, renewal requirements, reciprocity for out-of-state CNAs, and what you can expect to earn.
Training requirements
State requires 60 hours of training plus 100 hours of supervised clinical practice (160 total), exceeding the federal 75-hour minimum.
CNA training programs in California are offered through community colleges, vocational schools, healthcare facilities, and the American Red Cross. When choosing a program, make sure it is state-approved — only graduates of approved programs are eligible to take the competency evaluation.
Competency exam
State-administered competency evaluation through Pearson VUE, consisting of a written (or oral) knowledge test and a clinical skills demonstration.
You must pass both portions of the exam to be placed on the California Nurse Aide Registry. If you fail, most states allow retakes, but check with the California Department of Public Health Nurse Aide Registry for California’s specific retake policy.
State registry
Once you pass the competency evaluation, your name is placed on the California Department of Public Health Nurse Aide Registry. Employers are required to verify your certification through this registry before hiring you.
You can verify your certification status or find more information at: California Department of Public Health Nurse Aide Registry.
California note: California has some of the highest CNA training requirements and pay in the country. The state uses 'CNA' (not 'Nurse Aide').
Average salary in California
CNAs in California typically earn $42,000-$48,000 per year. Pay varies by setting, experience, shift differentials, and geographic location within the state.
Top employers in California include Kaiser Permanente, Sutter Health, Dignity Health, skilled nursing facilities throughout the state.
Renewal requirements
Certification is valid for 2 years. Must work at least 8 paid hours as a CNA during the renewal period to maintain active status.
Reciprocity (transferring from another state)
California accepts out-of-state CNA certificates with proof of training that meets California's standards. May require additional testing.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a CNA in California?
CNA training programs in California typically take 4-12 weeks to complete. State requires 60 hours of training plus 100 hours of supervised clinical practice (160 total), exceeding the federal 75-hour minimum. After completing your training, you must pass the competency evaluation to be placed on the state registry.
How much do CNAs make in California?
CNAs in California typically earn $42,000-$48,000 per year. Pay varies by setting (hospitals generally pay more than skilled nursing facilities), shift differentials, and geographic location within the state. Major employers include Kaiser Permanente, Sutter Health, Dignity Health, skilled nursing facilities throughout the state.
Can I transfer my CNA certification to California from another state?
California accepts out-of-state CNA certificates with proof of training that meets California's standards. May require additional testing. Contact the California Department of Public Health Nurse Aide Registry for the most current reciprocity requirements.