What Is a Home Care Aide (HCA)?
A Home Care Aide (HCA) is a certified long‑term care worker in Washington State who provides personal care and support to older adults and people with disabilities. HCAs help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, mobility, meals, and basic health‑related tasks under supervision. Certification is issued by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH), and training requirements are set by DSHS.
Steps to Become a Certified Home Care Aide (HCA)
1. Complete a Background Check
New long‑term care workers must complete the Washington State background check shortly after hire.
2. Complete 75 Hours of DSHS‑Approved Basic Training
Workers must finish 75 hours of training within 120 days of hire.
This includes:
• 5 hours Orientation & Safety
• 16 hours Population‑Specific Training
• 54 hours Core Basic Training
3. Apply for Your HCA Certification
Submit your application to the Washington State Department of Health. This must be done before testing.
4. Take and Pass the Prometric Exam
After training and application approval, workers must pass the written and skills exam administered by Prometric to earn certification.
5. Become Certified Within 200 Days of Hire
All long‑term care workers must complete training, apply, test, and become certified within 200 days of their hire date.