Key Points

• Caregivers assist with daily tasks, medication, mobility, and companionship
• California requires 40+ hours of training, a background check, and Home Care Aide (HCA) certification
• Training programs take 6–8 weeks and cost $300–$1,500
• Some employers offer free training in exchange for work commitments
• The average caregiver salary in California is $36,160/year ($17.39/hour), with specialized caregivers earning $33,000–$38,000+
• Caregiving is a long-term career with growth into nursing, business, or specialized care

What is a Caregiver?

A caregiver provides hands-on assistance to individuals who are elderly, disabled, chronically ill, or recovering from surgery. The role supports independence, enhances safety, and improves overall quality of life—especially for people who wish to remain in their homes.

What Does a Caregiver Do?

• Assist with bathing, dressing, grooming
• Administer and track medications
• Prepare meals and assist with feeding
• Provide light housekeeping and transportation
• Offer companionship and emotional support
• Monitor health status and report changes

Where Do Caregivers Work?

Caregivers in California work across many settings:

• Private homes – Most caregivers provide 1-on-1 in-home support
• Assisted living facilities – Helping residents with daily tasks
• Nursing homes – Supporting those needing long-term medical care
• Hospice care – Providing end-of-life comfort and support
• Hospitals – Assisting with patient recovery and discharge transitions

Requirements to Work as a Caregiver in California

To legally work as a caregiver through a licensed home care organization, California requires:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Completion of a state-approved 40-hour caregiver training program
• Background check and fingerprinting via the DOJ and Home Care Services Bureau
• HCA registration with the California Department of Social Services (CDSS)
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification (optional but often recommended)
• Current immunizations, including TB screening

How to Become a Caregiver in California?

Step 1: Complete a 40-Hour State-Approved Training

Training must include personal care, safety, elder rights, emergency procedures, and more.
Many employers cover the training costs if you commit to working with them post-certification.

Step 2: Get Fingerprinted and Pass Background Check

Live Scan fingerprinting is required for all applicants through an authorized vendor. This is done under the Department of Justice (DOJ) and processed through the Home Care Services Bureau (HCSB).

Step 3: Register as a Home Care Aide (HCA)

You can apply either online or by mail:

✅ To Apply Online:

1. Go to the Guardian Portal
2. Create an account and select “Register as a new user”
3. Choose “Home Care Aide Registration” as your application type
4. Enter your employer's PIN, or use R38XXK5PE if you're applying independently
5. Pay the $35 application fee via credit or debit card
6. Submit fingerprints via Live Scan

If you're renewing later, repeat the process but select “Home Care Aide Registry Renewal.”

✉️ To Apply by Mail:

1. Fill out the HCS 100 form
2. Include a $35 check or money order
3. Mail to:
   California Department of Social Services
   Home Care Services Branch
   744 P Street, M.S. 9-14-90
   Sacramento, CA 95814
4. Complete Live Scan using the LIC 9163 form and submit to an authorized vendor

📢 Important: Your name and contact details may be shared with labor organizations unless you opt out during registration. Learn more here.

Step 4: Start Working and Build Experience

Once you’re officially registered and cleared, apply to home care agencies, private households, or assisted living communities. Most employers will provide additional on-the-job training.

Where to Find Caregiver Training Programs in California

Training is offered through:

• Community colleges
• Vocational schools
• Home care agencies
• Dreambound – Search and compare local caregiver training programs

📍 Start here: Caregiver classes near you