Washington: annual training for home care aides
In Washington, a long-term care worker / certified home care aide completes at least 12 hours of training each year (RCW 74.39A.341(1), (5); WAC 246-980-110; WAC 388-112A-0600, -1020(5)). Online training is allowed. Training must use state-approved curriculum. WorkSafe Cert courses are not approved in this state.
The rule
(1) All long-term care workers shall complete 12 hours of continuing education training in advanced training topics each year. ... (5) Only training curriculum approved by the department may be used to fulfill the training requirements specified in this section.
RCW 74.39A.341(1), (5); WAC 246-980-110; WAC 388-112A-0600, -1020(5). Enforced by Washington DSHS (curriculum and instructor approval); Washington Department of Health (home care aide certification). Source, read October 27, 2026.
| Who it covers | Long-term care worker / certified home care aide |
|---|---|
| Initial training | 75 hours |
| Each year | 12 hours |
| Online | Online training is allowed. |
| Provider | Training must use state-approved curriculum. WorkSafe Cert courses are not approved in this state. |
Questions
How many training hours does a home care aide need each year in Washington?
12 hours (RCW 74.39A.341(1), (5); WAC 246-980-110; WAC 388-112A-0600, -1020(5)).
Can the annual training be completed online in Washington?
Online training is allowed.
Does the training have to come from an approved provider in Washington?
Training must use state-approved curriculum. WorkSafe Cert courses are not approved in this state.