FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

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1. How do I become an HHA?

You must successfully complete an approved training program and pass both portions of the examination within two (2) years of training at an approved testing site. Check the Exam Overview Section of this handbook for other options.

2. May I perform the duties of a Home Health Aide before I am certified?

No, you may not be employed prior to certification.

3. How do I arrange for Special accommodations?

Special requests must be submitted and approved prior to testing. Documentation from your physician or other qualifying professional must be included with the request. Please refer to the Accommodations section of the candidate handbook for details.

4. Is there a time limit in which I must pass both exams?

You must pass both exams within 24 months of the completion of your training program.

5. Can I register for an exam or check my scores online?

Registration must be done online. Results are available online in your candidate account. If you passed both parts of the examination, your name will be placed on the list sent to DC Board of Nursing. You may then submit an online application to DC Board of Nursing for certification.

6. What form of payment do you accept, and may I take it to the test site? 

All payments must be made online with a credit card, debit card or electronic voucher. No form of payment will be accepted at the test site.

7. How long will it take me to find out if I passed or failed?

To access your score report, please log into your account at CNA365. Score reports are generally available within a few hours after a testing event is completed for the day. If it has been more than 24 hours and you are unable to view your score report in the portal, please contact customer service at 877-833-4542.

8. How do I verify my certification status?

You can verify your certification status for Home Health Aide online after the application is completed and submitted. You may view your certification status at: https://doh.force.com/ver/s/.

9. How do I change my name and/ or address?

Board of Nursing staff requesting that your email address or name is changed. You may change your name or mailing address when renewing your license. Provide change of name legal documents.

10. My certification expired. How do I renew it or become certified again? 

Home Health Aides must retrain and retest when the certification has expired more than 24 months. Home Health Aides who have expired certifications less than 24 months may reinstate their certification by providing proof of having worked as an HHA a minimum of eight hours and completion of twenty-four (24) hours of continuing education or in-service.

11. I’m moving to or from another state. May I perform nurse aide duties in that state?

If you are moving to DC, and you have worked as a Home Health Aide in another state, you may apply for endorsement, by visiting the Board of Nursing website for link to online application: https://dchealth.dc.gov/bon. If you are moving from DC, you should contact the Board of Nursing or Department of Health for that state, to obtain state requirements.