Want to know how to become a home health aide? It’s one of the fastest-growing healthcare careers — and you can get started in as little as 2 weeks with minimal requirements. This guide walks you through every step from HHA training to landing your first job.
Each state has different HHA requirements. Verify minimum age, education, and training hours. Some states require TB testing and background checks before training.
Enroll in a state-approved HHA training program. Options include free agency-sponsored training, community college courses, or online programs. See our guide to finding HHA training programs.
Finish classroom instruction (infection control, vital signs, patient care, nutrition) plus 16 hours of supervised clinical practice with real patients.
Take the written knowledge test and skills demonstration. Practice with free HHA practice tests to prepare. Most programs include the exam fee.
Submit your exam results, background check, and application to your state health department. Processing takes 1–2 weeks.
Apply to home health agencies, hospitals, and private families. Many training programs include job placement. Build your home health aide resume.
$0 to $1,500 depending on the program:
See full breakdown in our home health aide training guide.
Multiple choice covering patient care, safety, infection control, nutrition, communication, and patient rights. 60–90 minutes.
Hands-on demonstration of randomly selected skills: handwashing, vital signs, transfers, personal care. Performed on mannequin or volunteer.
Now you know how to become a home health aide. The path is straightforward: train, certify, work. With demand growing 22% and free HHA training programs available, there’s never been a better time to start.
Learn about home health aide duties and check home health aide salary in your state.