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Healthcare

How to become a Home Health Aide

Helps clients with daily living, bathing, meals and mobility, in their own home. From no experience: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.

Time to get there
2–6 weeks
Typical pay
$30k–$38k
Starting from
No experience

Pay is an estimate of typical US entry-level pay for this role and varies by state, employer and shift. The timeline assumes you are starting from no experience and includes any licence or programme legally required, not just course length.

Commonly asked for

  • No degree required
  • 75 hours of federally required training if the agency bills Medicare
  • Background check required; no prior experience needed
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The route

  1. Complete HHA training

    Federal minimum is 75 hours if the agency bills Medicare; some states want more.

    Course that covers thisHome Health Aide Certification (US) Practice TestsUdemy · around $24.99
  2. Pass the competency evaluation

    Skills checked by a nurse — bathing, transfers, vitals.

  3. Clear a background check

    Standard for anyone working in a client's home.

  4. Destination

    Home Health Aide

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