How to Become a Caregiver in Texas (2025)
If you're looking for a fast-track career in Texas where you can make a tangible difference in people's lives—no college degree required—becoming a professional Caregiver is a fantastic choice. The state has one of the highest needs in the nation, employing over 428,000 of these essential professionals who earn a median salary of $31,500 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This guide breaks down the simple, step-by-step process to get trained, certified, and hired for a stable and rewarding job in this high-demand field.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Caregiver?
You can get a job as a non-medical caregiver with on-the-job training in as little as a week. To become a certified Home Health Aide (HHA) in Texas, the required 75-hour training program can be completed in just 2 to 3 weeks if attended full-time.
What About Licensing in Texas?
Texas does not require a state license for individual non-medical caregivers. However, home health agencies themselves are licensed by the state. To work for a Medicare-certified home health agency, you must be certified as an HHA by completing the 75-hour federal training program and competency exam.
Where to Find Caregiver Classes in Texas?
Finding a quality training program is the best way to start your career, and Dreambound is designed to make that process simple. Dreambound's platform allows you to search, filter, and connect with a vast network of career and technical education partners offering caregiver and HHA programs across Texas. You can compare training providers based on cost, schedules, and location to find the perfect fit for your goals.
Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a Caregiver
As a Caregiver or HHA, you have several avenues for growth within the healthcare sector:
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): Earning your CNA certification opens up a much wider range of job opportunities, particularly in hospitals and skilled nursing facilities. Specialized Caregiver: With experience and additional training, you can specialize in high-demand areas like dementia/Alzheimer's care or hospice care. Care Manager/Supervisor: With experience, you can move into an administrative role at a home care agency, managing other caregivers and client cases. Licensed Nurse (LPN/RN): The experience you gain as a caregiver provides a strong foundation for pursuing a degree in nursing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a caregiver paid in Texas?
In Texas, the average pay for a caregiver ranges from $12 to $16 per hour, depending on the level of care required and the caregiver's experience.
Do caregivers need to be licensed in Texas?
Caregivers in Texas are not required by law to be licensed, but many agencies and private employers may prefer caregivers who have undergone training or certification programs, such as Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Home Health Aide (HHA) certifications.
What are the qualifications for a caregiver in the US?
Qualifications for a caregiver in the US generally include a high school diploma or equivalent, prior experience in caregiving, and completion of a formal caregiver training program. Some states may also require certification.
Do you have to be certified to be a home health aide in Texas?
In Texas, home health aides do not necessarily need to be certified. However, if they are employed by an agency that receives Medicare or Medicaid, they must get formal training and pass a competency exam or state certification program.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a caregiver in Texas can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path, as you have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of those you serve. By understanding the requirements and steps to becoming a caregiver, you can take the first step towards a meaningful and impactful career.
Are you thinking about a job change or wanting to learn more about different career paths? Feel free to check out these additional articles:
Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.
