Florida Caretaker Requirements
Everything an agency needs to hire compliant caretakers in Florida — and everything an individual needs to know before starting work.
Training
8h
Min Age
18
Pay
$14–22
TB Test
Yes
CPR
Varies
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.
Level 2 fingerprint-based background screening via FDLE/FBI
Agency policy
Must be completed within 12 months of hire. Some agencies require annual rescreening.
Not required by the state, but many agencies require it and it strengthens your application
Complete Required Training
Agencies are responsible for providing or arranging this training. It must be completed before the caretaker works independently with clients.
Personal Care Aide (PCA)
Non-medical aide providing personal care and homemaker services.
8
Hours
Agency orientation
8 hoursPersonal care basics, safety, client rights, infection control
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
Background screening renewed every 5 years
Annually or per agency policy
Regulatory Body
Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA)
Employment type: W-2 Employee or Independent Contractor (varies by agency type)
Visit official websiteAverage Hourly Pay
$14 – $22
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 — fastest-growing senior population in the US
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.
Florida-Specific Notes
- 1Level 2 screening is one of the most comprehensive in the nation
- 2Massive demand in South Florida, Gulf Coast, and Central Florida
Frequently Asked Questions
How many training hours are required for caretakers in Florida?
Florida requires 8 hours of pre-service training for Personal Care Aides. This typically covers agency orientation. The hiring agency is responsible for providing or verifying this training.
What background checks are required for home care caretakers in Florida?
Florida requires: Level 2 fingerprint-based background screening via FDLE/FBI. The hiring agency must complete all screening before the caretaker has any client contact. Drug testing policy: agency policy.
How much do home care caretakers earn in Florida?
Non-medical home care caretakers in Florida earn $14–$22 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 Florida?
You must be at least 18 years old to work as a non-medical home care caretaker in Florida. Most agencies also require a valid ID and legal work authorization.
What ongoing requirements do caretakers have in Florida?
Background screening renewed every 5 years 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 Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) before starting training or employment. HomeCareAtlas is not a certifying body and does not guarantee the accuracy of this information.