How to become an HCA?
Step 1
Complete 75 hours of training approved by the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS)
Step 2
Pass a Certification Exam
Step 3
Acquire a license through the Washington State Department of Health
Home Care Aides (HCA) assist individuals with daily living tasks. These tasks may include palliative and hospice care, personal care, toileting, ambulation, meal preparation and eating, light household duties and errands.
As a home care aide, you can work in various settings, such as home care agencies, private residences, adult family homes, or assisted living facilities.
In Washington State, the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) oversees the HCA licensing process. All candidates interested in becoming licensed should refer to DOH website.
Washington Care Careers, a division of Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), also provides a step-by-step overview of the HCA training process.
Home Care Aide
Training Centers
Washington State offers a variety of Training Centers to obtain Home Care Aide certification.
If you are in the Tacoma area, Pallet Carriers recommends training at Visiting Angels, Tacoma.
Need help studying for the HCA exam?
Pallet Carriers offers online video training for Washington State residence, taught by a certified HCA instructor, that reiterate the skills taught at your local training centers. These videos act as a refresher as you prepare for the State exam.
Step 1: Become a member
Sign up for membership with Pallet Carriers and receive access to HCA Skills training.
Step 2: Learn the skills
Our course reiterates the skills being taught at your local HCA training facility. These videos act as a refresher as you prepare for the State exam.
Step 3: Take the exam
After completion of our course, sign up to take the HCA State exam at a local proctor near you.
Ready to test?
Visit the Prometric Website to schedule your test in Washington State.