Key Points

• Caregivers help clients with daily living, mobility, safety, and companionship.
• California requires state-approved caregiver training, fingerprinting, and Home Care Aide (HCA) registration.
• HCA training includes 5 hours of initial training and 5 hours of annual continuing education.
• Training programs typically range from $300–$1,500.
• Some home care agencies provide free training for new hires.
• The average caregiver salary in California is $36,160/year.

What Is a Caregiver?

A caregiver provides hands-on support for individuals who are elderly, disabled, chronically ill, or recovering from surgery or injury. The goal is to help clients maintain independence and quality of life while staying safe at home or in a care facility.

Common caregiver duties include:

• Assisting with bathing, dressing, and grooming
• Supporting mobility and fall prevention
• Preparing meals and helping with feeding
• Offering companionship and emotional support
• Providing medication reminders
• Performing light housekeeping
• Monitoring changes in a client's condition

Caregivers in California work across several settings, including private homes, assisted living facilities, skilled nursing facilities, hospice agencies, and hospitals.

Requirements to Become a Caregiver in California

To work for a licensed home care organization in California, you must complete the following state requirements:

• HCA Training (5 hours initial + 5 hours annual)
• Live Scan fingerprinting and background check
• Home Care Aide (HCA) registration with the California Department of Social Services (CDSS)
• TB test and updated vaccinations
• Legal authorization to work in the U.S.

While a high school diploma or GED is not required by the state, many employers prefer it. Some employers may also ask for CPR or Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.

Step 1 — Complete Your Caregiver Training

California requires all paid caregivers working for a licensed agency to complete state-approved Home Care Aide training.

HCA Training Requirements

• 5 hours of initial training: This includes 2 hours of orientation on the caregiver role and 3 hours on safety topics like infection control and emergency procedures.
• 5 hours of annual ongoing training: This continuing education covers core competencies like clients' rights, personal hygiene assistance, and detecting abuse or neglect.

These minimum training hours have remained consistent and were not changed by recent legislation like AB 120. Most caregiver training programs cost $300–$1,500, depending on the school and format.

Caregiver Training Near You

Dreambound offers state-approved caregiver programs across California:

• Caregiver classes in Bakersfield
• Caregiver classes in Fresno
• Caregiver classes in Los Angeles
• Caregiver classes in Oxnard
• Caregiver classes in San Bernardino/Riverside
• Caregiver classes in Sacramento
• Caregiver classes in San Diego
• Caregiver classes in San Francisco
• Caregiver classes in San Jose
• Caregiver classes in Stockton

Compare caregiver training programs on Dreambound to get started.

Step 2 — Complete Fingerprinting and Background Check

All Home Care Aide applicants must undergo a Live Scan fingerprinting background check processed through the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the FBI.

The total cost is typically around $82. This includes fixed government processing fees of $49 ($32 for the DOJ and $17 for the FBI) plus a variable "rolling fee" charged by the Live Scan operator, which averages about $33.

You will need to bring a completed LIC 9163 Live Scan form and a valid ID to an authorized vendor. Your results will be sent directly to the CDSS.

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

To legally work for a licensed home care agency, you must be listed on the state's Home Care Aide Registry. The application process is now managed through the CDSS Guardian online system.

Apply Online

1. Visit the Guardian Portal.
2. Create a new account to start your application.
3. Select Home Care Aide Registration.
4. When prompted for a PIN, enter your employer's agency PIN. If you are applying independently, use the generic PIN R38XXK5PE.
5. Pay the non-refundable $35 registration fee.
6. Submit your Live Scan fingerprints.

Apply by Mail

1. Complete the HCS 100 application form.
2. Include a $35 check or money order payable to the CDSS
3. Mail your application and payment to the Home Care Services Branch in Sacramento.
4. Complete the LIC 9163 Live Scan form and take it to an authorized vendor.

📌 Important: Unless you opt out during registration, your name and contact information may be shared with labor organizations.

Once your application and background check are approved, your name will appear on the HCA Registry, and you can begin working.