CNA Classes in San Francisco, CA

How Much Does CNA Training Cost in San Francisco?

Tuition at San Francisco programs runs $598 to $4,500 (about $2,549 on average). Beyond tuition, plan for the state exam fee (Varies by vendor; typically around $135–$155 for both portions), the application/registry fee ($0 for the standard CNA initial application (Form CDPH 283B); Live Scan fees roughly $50–$75 plus DOJ/FBI processing), a background check, and uniforms or supplies. All in, total CNA training cost in California typically falls around $0 (employer-sponsored or ROP) to ~$2,000 (private training).

How to Become a CNA in San Francisco, CA

1. 1

   Confirm you meet basic prerequisites

   You must be at least 16, able to read and write English, and able to pass a Live Scan background check. There is no formal high school diploma requirement from CDPH, though some Regional Occupational Programs (ROPs) and community colleges require enrolled students to be in or have completed high school.

2. 2

   Find a CDPH-approved Nurse Assistant Training Program (NATP)

   Look for a NATP listed by the California Department of Public Health. Approved programs are run by community colleges, ROPs, adult schools, nursing facilities, and the American Red Cross. The program must include the full 160 hours (60 theory + 100 clinical).

3. 3

   Complete Live Scan fingerprinting

   Submit a Request for Live Scan Service (Form BCIA 8016) before or during training. CDPH must have a DOJ and FBI clearance on file before issuing your certificate. Live Scan vendor fees typically run $50–$75 plus processing charges.

4. 4

   Complete the full 160-hour training program

   Pass all classroom modules and demonstrate the required clinical competencies. Clinical hours must be supervised in a licensed healthcare facility — usually a skilled nursing facility — and cover personal care, vital signs, infection control, communication, and resident rights.

5. 5

   Submit Form CDPH 283B and schedule your competency exam

   Your training program submits the CDPH 283B Initial Application packet and places you in the testing database. CDPH then assigns you to one of two approved vendors (D&SDT-Headmaster or Credentia) for the competency exam. You will receive an Authorization to Test when scheduling opens.

6. 6

   Pass the written and skills evaluation

   The written exam is multiple-choice (or oral by request). The skills exam asks you to perform 5 randomly assigned nurse aide skills in front of a vendor evaluator. You must pass both portions to be added to the California Nurse Aide Registry.

7. 7

   Get listed on the California Nurse Aide Registry

   After you pass both exam portions and Live Scan clears, CDPH issues your certificate and adds you to the registry. You can verify your status at cvl.cdph.ca.gov. From that point you are authorized to work as a CNA in California facilities.

Becoming a CNA in California

If you are planning to become a CNA in California, expect a longer runway than in most states. The 160-hour training requirement means full-time programs typically run 6 to 10 weeks before you can even sit for the competency exam — and you should add another 2 to 4 weeks for Live Scan fingerprinting and exam scheduling. The good news is that many California Regional Occupational Programs (ROPs), adult schools, and community colleges offer the full 160 hours for free or at very low cost to California residents under the California Promise Grant, so the financial investment is often modest even when the time commitment is not.

Frequently Asked Questions: CNA Training in San Francisco