How to Become a Certified Medication Aide in California
Certified Medication Aides (CMAs) support nurses by giving medications in long-term care facilities. In California, CMAs earn an average of $39,840 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
3. Apply for the California CMA Certification Exam
After training, apply for the state exam through the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).
4. Pass the Medication Aide Exam
Take the 100-question multiple-choice exam. If you fail, you can retake the test once for free. A second failure requires retaking the training program.
5. Maintain Certification with Annual Renewal
CMAs in California must renew their certification every year. To renew, you must:
- Complete 7 hours of continuing education (CE) credits.
- Submit your renewal application and fee through CDPH before your certification expires.
Renewal Fees:
- First renewal: $20 (No CE hours required)
- Second renewal & subsequent renewals: $20 (7 CE hours required)
- Late renewal (less than 90 days past expiration): $30
- Late renewal (91-365 days past expiration): $50
- Expired for over a year? You must retrain and retest.
Career Paths and Opportunities After Becoming a Medication Aide
A Certified Medication Aide (CMA) role can lead to higher-paying healthcare positions, including:
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) – Advance to an LPN role, performing more complex medical tasks and supervising CMAs.
- Pharmacy Technician – Transition into medication-related careers, working in pharmacies or hospitals. Pharmacy Technician programs take 6 months to a year to complete, followed by certification.
- Medical Assistant (MA) – Gain clinical and administrative experience, assisting with exams and office tasks. Medical Assistant programs take 9-12 months to complete and culminate in a certification exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a Certified Medication Aide in California?
Becoming a Certified Medication Aide (CMA) in California takes about 6-8 weeks, including:
- 100 hours of classroom instruction
- 20 hours of supervised lab practice
- 10 hours of hands-on clinical experience
After training, candidates must pass the California Medication Aide Certification Exam.
How much does a Certified Medication Aide make in California?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), CMAs in California earn an average salary of $39,840 per year ($19.15/hour).
- Entry-level CMAs: Start at $35,000 per year ($16.80/hour).
- Experienced CMAs: Earn $42,000–$50,000+ per year.
How much does it cost to renew a Medication Aide license in California?
- First renewal: $20 (No CE hours required)
- Second renewal & subsequent renewals: $20 (7 CE hours required)
- Late renewal (less than 90 days past expiration): $30
- Late renewal (91-365 days past expiration): $50
Final Thoughts
Becoming a Certified Medication Aide in California is a fast path to a stable career. With growing demand and clear advancement options, this role opens doors in healthcare.
Ready to get started? Explore state-approved Medication Aide programs near you today!
Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.
