Free caregiver training · California
Section 1 · Orientation
Who we are, your office team, how and when you get paid, recording your hours, your schedule, calling off a shift, your first shift, and the rules that protect you and your clients.
Sign in to study →Section 2 · Orientation
What a home care aide does and does not do, helping with medications the client takes on their own, observing and reporting changes, client rights, and respectful communication, including the basics of dementia.
Sign in to study →Section 3 · Orientation
Timekeeping and care records, working in a client's home, getting help, mandated abuse reporting, workplace safety, sick leave, and your employer sign-off.
Sign in to study →Section 4 · Safety
Why falls are so dangerous, how to check a home for hazards, protecting your own back, helping a client move and walk safely, what to do if a client falls, and safety on outings.
Sign in to study →Section 5 · Safety
Recognizing a medical emergency, calling 911 clearly, DNR and POLST forms, fire and oxygen safety, earthquakes, wildfire and smoke, extreme heat, power outages, and a client who goes missing.
Sign in to study →Section 6 · Safety
How germs spread, when to use hand sanitizer and when to wash, gloves and other protective equipment, cleaning and laundry, food safety, and what to do if you are sick or exposed.
Sign in to study →Keep your skills current with a separate annual course, yearly progress and reviewed certificates.
Your employer must review the employment terms that apply to you: duties and supervision, pay and timekeeping, schedules and attendance, breaks and leave, workplace conduct, reporting concerns, and emergency contacts. General study guides do not replace this review. Another agency must provide its own employer orientation.
Read the six short sections and pass one short final test. Your certificate is issued right away and saved to your profile.
Annual training is an additional five hours, separate from entry-level training. Required areas include client rights and safety, daily living needs, abuse and neglect, personal hygiene, and safe transportation when provided. From January 1, 2027, annual training also expressly includes dementia care needs.
Yes. Each employing organization remains responsible for its own orientation, verifying accepted safety training, and maintaining personnel and training records. This course is not a state-issued license or a guarantee of employment.
Requirements reviewed September 8, 2026. California Health and Safety Code §1796.44