Helpful Tips & Advice for a Successful CNA & HHA Renewal Application
Renewing your certification doesn't have to be stressful. Follow these tips to ensure your renewal application is complete, accurate, and processed without delays.
1. Know Your Renewal Requirements
Understanding your renewal obligations is the first step to a successful application.
CNA Renewal Requirements
- Complete 48 total hours of In‑Service or Continuing Education Units (CEUs) during your two year certification period (minimum 12 hours per year).
- Up to 24 hours may be completed online through CDPH‑approved providers.
- Your employer must verify in‑Service hours on the CDPH 283A form.
- You must work at least one day providing direct patient care under licensed supervision during your certification period. Track hours to stay on schedule.
HHA Renewal Requirements
- Complete 24 total hours of in‑Service or CDPH approved CEUs every two years (12 hours per year required).
- Employer must verify the training by signing the CDPH 283A form.
- Track hours to stay on schedule.
2. Submit Early to Avoid Delays
Renewal processing may take time, especially when required documents are missing or incomplete. Submitting your application early helps prevent expiration and work disruptions. You may submit your complete renewal application package up to six (6) months prior to the expiration date on your certificate.
3. Use the Online Portal for Faster Submission
Online submissions are processed more efficiently and help reduce errors.
- Ensure all fields are complete before uploading.
- Double‑check your certificate number and personal information.
4. Keep Your Documents Organized
Before submitting, make sure you have:
- Your CDPH 283A form (signed and dated by your employer).
- Your CEU certificates or in‑Service completion documentation.
- Your employment verification available in case CDPH requests it.
5. Track Your Certification Period
Knowing your expiration date and calculating your certification period helps you plan CEUs and work requirements on time.
6. Verify Your CEU Provider
Only CDPH‑approved continuing education providers count toward your CNA renewal.
7. Avoid Common Mistakes
These are common reasons renewal application packages are delayed or rejected:
- Missing or incomplete CDPH 283A or CDPH 283C forms
- Forms must be fully filled out, signed, and dated.
- Submitting fewer CEU/In‑Service hours than required
- CNA: 48 hours required with a minimum of 12 in year of the certification period
- HHA: 24 hours required with a minimum of 12 in year of the certification period
- Incorrect or outdated personal information
- Name, address, certificate number, or contact information do not match the department's record
- Not meeting the one‑day CNA work requirement
- At least one day of paid, supervised patient‑care work within the certification period
- CEU certificates missing required provider details — certificates must include:
- Name of the CDPH approved CEU/In‑Service provider
- Applicant's name or CNA/HHA certificate number
- Number of CEU/In‑Service hours earned
- Course title and completion date
- Instructor's name and signature
- CDPH‑issued NAC/provider number (required for all approved provider)
8. Need Help? Contact Us
If you have questions about renewal requirements, email the Registry Unit at cna@cdph.ca.gov.