CNA jobs in California: what to know
What a CNA does
Certified nursing assistants give hands-on care to patients and residents: helping with bathing, dressing, eating and moving, taking vital signs, and telling nurses about any changes. CNAs work in skilled nursing facilities, hospitals, assisted living and home health. It's one of the fastest ways to start a healthcare career in California.
How to become a CNA in California
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) certifies nursing assistants:
- Training: complete a CDPH-approved nurse assistant training program with at least 60 hours of classroom and 100 hours of supervised clinical training (160 hours total). Many programs take 6 to 15 weeks.
- Background check: complete Live Scan fingerprinting.
- Exam: pass the state competency exam, which has a written (or oral) test and a skills test.
- Renew: the certificate is renewed every two years, with continuing education.
Some nursing facilities offer free CNA training if you agree to work for them afterward. Ask local facilities and community colleges.
Skills employers look for
- Patience, kindness and respect for patients' dignity.
- Safe lifting and transfers.
- Accurate vital signs and reporting.
- Reliability: care facilities run 24 hours a day, every day.
How to get hired
- Apply to skilled nursing facilities first; they hire new CNAs often.
- Be flexible with shifts. Evenings, nights and weekends open more doors.
- Keep your BLS card current.
- Mention any caregiving experience, including caring for family.
Questions people ask
Is CNA a good first step toward nursing?
Yes. Many LVNs and RNs started as CNAs, and nursing schools value the experience.
Can I work while I'm still in training?
Some facilities hire trainees for limited roles. Check with your program and the employer.
Your pay and breaks in California
- Minimum wage: the statewide minimum is $16.90 an hour in 2026, and many cities set a higher local minimum. Some healthcare employers have their own, higher minimum wage schedule.
- Overtime: most hourly workers earn 1.5 times their pay after 8 hours in a day or 40 hours in a week, and double pay after 12 hours in a day.
- Breaks: a 30-minute meal break when you work more than 5 hours, and a paid 10-minute rest break for every 4 hours worked (or major part of 4 hours).
- Pay in job posts: employers with 15 or more workers must include a pay range in their job posts, so check the listing before you apply.
Questions about pay or breaks? The California Labor Commissioner explains your rights and how to file a claim.
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