Eligibility Criteria

District of Columbia- Home Health Aide (HHA)

This section explains about the eligibility criteria of one who wants to become a Home Health Aide (HHA) in Columbia.

Eligibility For Home Health Aide

You are eligible to apply to take the HHA Examination for certification as a home health aide in DC if you qualify under one of the following eligibility routes:

You are permitted three (3) attempts to pass the exam. You must retake exam if you do not pass the third attempt.

H1

You have completed a DC Department of Health approved training program within the last twenty-four (24) months.

H2

You have completed a DC CNA to HHA bridge course within the last twenty-four (24) months that was approved by the DC Board of Nursing, and you have previously taken and passed the NNAAP Examination. Log into CNA365 and select the appropriate Examination Types and Fees box to complete only the HHA written examination.

H3

You have completed a Nurse Assistant OR an HHA training program in a state other than DC (also considered not approved by the DC Board of Nursing) and you have not passed the NNAAP Examination. Please log into CNA365 to select the appropriate Examination Types and Fees box to complete both the HHA written and Skills examination.

Note: Do not select this eligibility route if you are in good standing on the CNA registry of another state and would like to apply for reciprocity.

H4

You have completed a practical or registered nursing “Fundamental of Nursing” course in the United States with a clinical component within the last thirty-six (36) months from the date of application. Submit course description and official transcript in sealed envelope. Select the appropriate Examination Types and Fees box to complete the HHA written and skills examination.

H5

You have obtained a Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing School (CGFNS) certificate within the last thirty-six (36) months from the date of application of certification, indicating education as a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN) outside the United States. Submit CGFNS certificate. Select the appropriate Examination Types and Fees box to complete the HHA written and skills examination.

Light duty

Candidates are prohibited from taking the Skills Evaluation if on limited activity or light duty due to medical reasons. Candidates must be able to complete required skills included in the Skills Evaluation. Candidates on light duty cannot take the Skills Evaluation; however, they can take the written/oral exam. Medical documentation stating return to full duty is required to take the skills evaluation.