How to Get Your HHA Certificate in New York in 2026 (Step-by-Step)
A Home Health Aide certificate is your entry point to a stable, growing career in New York's home care industry. Here is the exact process, timeline, and what to expect.
Becoming a certified Home Health Aide in New York is one of the fastest ways to enter a healthcare career with strong job security and growing demand.
What Is the HHA Certificate?
New York State requires all Home Health Aides working for licensed agencies to complete a minimum 75-hour training program. The program includes classroom instruction, skills lab, and supervised clinical hours.
Step 1: Choose an Approved Training Program
Look for programs approved by the New York State Department of Health. Many are offered free or low-cost through community colleges, nonprofits, and home care agencies. Programs typically run 2–4 weeks full-time.
Step 2: Complete the 75 Hours
The curriculum covers: client rights and confidentiality, infection control, emergency procedures, personal care skills, nutrition, and observation/reporting.
Step 3: Pass the Competency Evaluation
After training, you must pass a written and skills competency test. Most programs have pass rates above 85% when students complete all clinical hours.
Step 4: Register with the HHA Registry
New York maintains a statewide HHA Registry. Your employer will add you after hire.
What You Can Earn
HHAs in NYC earn $18–22/hr under Medicaid waiver programs. Full-time HHAs with evening/weekend availability often earn $40,000–48,000 annually.
Priority Groups is Hiring
Priority Cares is actively hiring certified HHAs in all five NYC boroughs and Monroe County, NY. We offer weekly pay, flexible schedules, and a $25 sign-on gift card.