Minnesota Caretaker Requirements
Everything an agency needs to hire compliant caretakers in Minnesota — and everything an individual needs to know before starting work.
Training
24h
Min Age
18
Pay
$15–23
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.
State criminal background study through DHS
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.
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.
Home Care Aide (HCA)
Non-medical caretaker providing personal care in the home.
24
Hours
Pre-service orientation
16 hoursCore competencies, safety, infection control, client rights
Competency evaluation
Skills demonstration in personal care tasks
Annual continuing education
8 hoursOngoing training
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
Annual 8 hours of continuing education
Annually or per agency policy
Regulatory Body
Average Hourly Pay
$15 – $23
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
Strong — Minneapolis-St. Paul metro has consistent demand
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.
Minnesota-Specific Notes
- 1Minnesota requires a Comprehensive Home Care license or Basic Home Care license
- 2PCA Choice program allows self-directed care
- 3Twin Cities metro has highest demand and pay
Frequently Asked Questions
How many training hours are required for caretakers in Minnesota?
Minnesota requires 24 hours of pre-service training for Home Care Aides. This typically covers pre-service orientation, competency evaluation, annual continuing education. The hiring agency is responsible for providing or verifying this training.
What background checks are required for home care caretakers in Minnesota?
Minnesota requires: State criminal background study through DHS. 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 Minnesota?
Non-medical home care caretakers in Minnesota earn $15–$23 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 Minnesota?
You must be at least 18 years old to work as a non-medical home care caretaker in Minnesota. Most agencies also require a valid ID and legal work authorization.
What ongoing requirements do caretakers have in Minnesota?
Annual 8 hours of continuing education 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 Minnesota Department of Health before starting training or employment. HomeCareAtlas is not a certifying body and does not guarantee the accuracy of this information.