Becoming a CNA

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Becoming a CNA in California: Your Step-by-Step Guide

At ReachPoint Nurse Education Center we’re here to make your path to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) clear, accessible, and achievable. CNAs are essential members of the healthcare team, providing hands-on care and support for patients in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health settings.

Whether you’re starting your first career or making a change, becoming a CNA is a fast and rewarding way to enter the healthcare field.

What is a CNA?

A Certified Nursing Assistant provides basic nursing care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN). CNAs assist patients with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, mobility, eating, and monitoring vital signs. This role is ideal for compassionate, detail-oriented individuals who want to make a real difference in people’s lives—every single day.

Why Become a CNA?

Quick Entry into Healthcare – Complete training in as little as 4 to 8 weeks

High Job Demand – CNAs are in demand across hospitals, long-term care, and home health settings

Flexible Work Environments – Choose from full-time, part-time, or per diem shifts

Pathway to Advancement – CNA experience lays the foundation for becoming an LVN, RN, or other healthcare professional

Requirements to Become a CNA in California

To become a CNA in California, you must:

Be at least 16 years old (some employers prefer 18+)
Have a high school diploma or equivalent (recommended, not required)
Complete a state-approved CNA training program (like ours)
Pass a criminal background check
Pass the California CNA state certification exam

California CNA Training Requirements

To become a CNA in California, you must complete a state-approved training program that includes:

60 Hours of Classroom Theory
Learn the foundational knowledge needed to provide safe, ethical, and effective care. Topics include infection control, anatomy, patient rights, communication skills, and emergency procedures.

100 Hours of Supervised Clinical Training
Practice real-world patient care in licensed healthcare facilities under the guidance of a qualified instructor.

Once training is complete, students must pass the California CNA State Certification Exam, which includes both a written and a hands-on skills test.

Initial Application Form

Enter Name

Email*

Please ensure that each applicant uses a unique email address and does not share it with others. If you live in the same household, please use individual email addresses when applying.

Address Date of Birth Driver’s License/ State Id No. - State Issued Interested Start Date (Month and Year)

Program Interest

Which training program are you interested in?* CNA Weekday AMCNA Weekday PMCNA WeekendCNA CEUBLS/CPR Certification

Conviction

Have you been CONVICTED, at any time, of any crime, other than a minor traffic violation?(You need not any marijuana-related offenses if yes, list conviction details below )

Conviction Number

Court of Conviction

Date of Conviction

Adverse Action

Has any health related licensing, certification or disciplinary authority taken adverse action (revoked, annulled, cancelled, suspended etc) against you? If yes, provide details below