California Caretaker Requirements
Everything an agency needs to hire compliant caretakers in California — and everything an individual needs to know before starting work.
Training
10h
Min Age
18
Pay
$17–25
TB Test
Yes
CPR
Yes
Verify Eligibility
Not required by most states for non-medical home care, but preferred by many agencies
Complete Background Checks & Screening
The hiring agency initiates and pays for these checks. All must clear before the caretaker has any client contact.
DOJ and FBI fingerprint-based Live Scan background check
Not required by the state, but many agencies require a pre-employment drug test
Must be completed within 12 months of hire. Some agencies require annual rescreening.
Must be obtained before working with clients. American Heart Association or equivalent. Renewed every 2 years.
Complete Required Training
Agencies are responsible for providing or arranging this training. It must be completed before the caretaker works independently with clients.
Home Care Aide (HCA)
State-registered caretaker providing non-medical home care services.
10
Hours
Initial training (pre-service)
5 hoursOrientation to home care, client rights, safety, and communication
On-the-job training
Supervised practical experience with clients
Annual continuing education
5 hoursOngoing training in relevant care topics
Scope of Practice — What This Role Covers
Meet Additional State Requirements
Maintain Ongoing Compliance
Agencies must track these deadlines and ensure all staff remain compliant. Lapsed credentials can result in fines and loss of licensure.
Renewal & Continuing Education
HCA registration renewed every 2 years; 5 hours CE annually
Every 2 years
Annually or per agency policy
Regulatory Body
California Department of Social Services (CDSS)
Employment type: W-2 Only (AB5 Law)
Visit official websiteAverage Hourly Pay
$17 – $25
per hour for non-medical care
Higher rates for weekends, overnights, and specialized care (dementia, hospice support). Urban areas typically pay 15–25% more than rural.
Demand Outlook
Very strong — largest state population with massive senior demographic
Home care is one of the fastest-growing employment sectors in the U.S. Demand is driven by the aging population and preference for aging in place.
California-Specific Notes
- 1California requires registration on the HCA Registry through CDSS
- 2AB5 means all home care aides must be W-2 employees
- 3Live Scan background check can take 2-6 weeks
- 4IHSS (In-Home Supportive Services) is a major Medicaid-funded program
Frequently Asked Questions
How many training hours are required for caretakers in California?
California requires 10 hours of pre-service training for Home Care Aides. This typically covers initial training (pre-service), on-the-job training, annual continuing education. The hiring agency is responsible for providing or verifying this training.
What background checks are required for home care caretakers in California?
California requires: DOJ and FBI fingerprint-based Live Scan background check. The hiring agency must complete all screening before the caretaker has any client contact. Drug testing policy: agency discretion.
How much do home care caretakers earn in California?
Non-medical home care caretakers in California earn $17–$25 per hour on average. Pay varies by region, experience, care complexity, and whether the shift is weekday vs weekend/overnight.
What is the minimum age to work as a caretaker in California?
You must be at least 18 years old to work as a non-medical home care caretaker in California. Most agencies also require a valid ID and legal work authorization.
What ongoing requirements do caretakers have in California?
HCA registration renewed every 2 years; 5 hours CE annually Agencies are responsible for tracking compliance and ensuring all staff maintain current credentials.
Managing caretaker compliance across your team?
HomeCareAtlas automatically tracks certifications, training deadlines, background check expirations, and renewal dates for every caretaker on your roster.
See how it worksThis guide is for informational purposes only. Requirements change — always verify with California Department of Social Services (CDSS) before starting training or employment. HomeCareAtlas is not a certifying body and does not guarantee the accuracy of this information.