CNA Classes & Programs in San Rafael, California
Get Information from CNA Programs in San Rafael and Nearby
San Rafael is home to 1 CNA program designed to prepare individuals for entry-level healthcare roles. With its location in the San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward metro area, aspiring CNAs benefit from access to reputable healthcare employers and a supportive professional environment. Those interested in flexible education will also find online training options available in San Rafael, broadening opportunities for students with different schedules.
Local CNA classes provide the foundational knowledge and clinical skills needed for California state certification. Graduates are positioned to pursue positions in hospitals or skilled nursing settings, and the presence of multiple healthcare facilities in San Rafael contributes to a favorable job outlook. The city’s CNA training programs are structured to meet both certification requirements and local employer expectations.
In the San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward region, CNAs earn around $50,380 annually, according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). This is above the statewide figure of approximately $45,170.
Quick Facts About San Rafael
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Population60,891Residents
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CNA Programs1State-approved Programs
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Median Income$113,839Median Annual Income
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CNA Hourly Rate$24.22Median Hourly Rate
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CNA Yearly Salary$50,380Median Annual Salary
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Facilities8CMS Healthcare Facilities7 Nursing Homes • 1 Hospital
Get Information from CNA Programs in San Rafael and Nearby
Schools in San Rafael and nearby are actively seeking qualified students. Fill out one quick form below to receive information directly from multiple accredited CNA programs.
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- Upcoming start dates & schedules
- Tuition costs & financial aid options
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- Program details & requirements
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Browse CNA Classes in San Rafael
San Rafael provides 1 CNA training program that enables students to qualify for California CNA certification. This program prepares participants with essential skills needed for patient care and supports career readiness. Online classes are available for added flexibility, allowing students to balance their studies with other commitments. Graduates are positioned for employment in local healthcare settings where CNAs are needed to support daily operations and deliver quality care.
Types of Classes Available
Free programs: not available in San Rafael, but free classes are available in other cities throughout California.
Accelerated programs: not available in San Rafael but are offered in other cities throughout California.
Online programs: Some classes in San Rafael offer online coursework combined with local clinical training.
SisuCare
Program Details
CNA Employment Opportunities in San Rafael
CNA Salary Information
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Annual Salary$50,380Median Yearly Pay
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Hourly Rate$24.22Median Per Hour
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Available Jobs10,690CNA Positions
In the San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward region, approximately 10,690 CNAs are employed according to BLS OEWS (May 2023). The demand for certified nursing assistants remains steady across hospitals and long-term care settings in this metropolitan area. Completing an approved CNA program and earning state certification prepares candidates for these essential roles.
The CNA salary in San Rafael is best understood by looking at regional data. In the San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward metro area, CNAs earn a median annual wage of $50,380 or $24.22 per hour, based on BLS OEWS (May 2023) figures. This is above the California statewide median of $45,170, reflecting higher living costs and demand in the region.
Healthcare facilities in San Rafael offer a range of employment opportunities for CNAs. Notable local employers include Smith Ranch Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center with 80 beds and Pine Ridge Care Center with a capacity of 101 beds—both recognized as significant nursing homes serving the community. Kaiser Foundation Hospital also provides acute care services as a major healthcare provider in the city. These CMS-certified facilities contribute to local job options for newly certified nursing assistants.
Sources
- Salary Data: BLS OEWS (May 2023)
- Healthcare Facilities: CMS (July 2025)
Working in Nearby Cities
Looking beyond San Rafael? Explore CNA programs and jobs in Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Novato, Rohnert Park, and Vallejo, or browse the California CNA programs page for more options.
Working in Other States
Planning to move or gain experience working in other states? Use our reciprocity guide to transfer your existing CNA license across states.
Working Through Agencies or as a Travel CNA
If you're already certified and would like to work through an agency or work as a travel CNA, browse here our directory of CNA agencies or simply fill out this short form to get matched with 3 personalized CNA agencies that can help you land your next job.
Nursing Homes Hiring CNAs in San Rafael (7 facilities)
7 nursing homes in San Rafael providing CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS nursing homes (July 2025)
Smith Ranch Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Cente
Facility Details
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Hospitals Hiring CNAs in San Rafael (1 facilities)
1 hospital in San Rafael offering CNA employment opportunities. Source: CMS hospitals (July 2025)
Facility Details
Requirements to Work as a CNA in San Rafael, CA
To work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in San Rafael, you must meet the statewide CNA requirements set by California. These include completing a California Department of Public Health (CDPH)–approved Nurse Assistant Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP), passing the state-approved competency examination administered by Credentia or D&SDT-Headmaster, and being listed on the California Nurse Aide Registry.
- At least 160 total hours of training (60 classroom hours and 100 supervised clinical hours in a licensed skilled nursing facility) — the highest requirement in the nation
- Completion of 16 hours of required instruction before any direct resident contact
- Criminal background check through California DOJ and FBI Live Scan
- Passing both the knowledge test (70 questions: 60 multiple-choice + 10 reading comprehension, 120 minutes) and the skills evaluation (five randomly selected skills within 25 minutes)
- Up to three attempts per component within two years of completing training before retraining is required
- Placement on the California Nurse Aide Registry maintained by CDPH
Once certified, you can work in skilled nursing facilities, hospitals, home health agencies, and other licensed healthcare settings throughout San Rafael and across California. CNAs must complete 48 hours of approved continuing education every 24 months to maintain active certification.
Already certified in another state? California offers certification by equivalency for out-of-state CNAs who hold active certification in good standing and meet federal OBRA training standards. Additional documentation, background checks, or testing may be required. Learn more in our CNA License Reciprocity in California guide.
For complete details on training programs, testing procedures, renewal requirements, and maintaining active registry status, see our comprehensive CNA License & Registration in California guide.
Career Growth & Advancement
Many CNAs use their experience as a stepping stone toward advanced healthcare careers:
- Specialized certifications (e.g., dementia care, medication aide)
- Promotion into shift supervisor or training coordinator roles
- Bridge programs to become an LPN or RN
- Opportunities in healthcare administration or education
Frequently Asked Questions about CNA Classes in San Rafael
How long does it take to complete a CNA program in San Rafael?
Most CNA programs in San Rafael can be completed in 4–12 weeks, depending on whether you choose a traditional, accelerated, or weekend schedule.
How much does CNA training cost in San Rafael?
Tuition typically ranges from $800–$1,500, though may be higher depending on the program. Some schools and healthcare employers may cover the cost or reimburse you after hiring.
Are there free CNA classes in San Rafael?
Some hospitals, nursing homes, and workforce programs may offer free CNA training in exchange for a work commitment.
Are there online CNA training options available in San Rafael?
Several schools offer hybrid options with online coursework and in-person clinical training at local healthcare facilities.
Are there any 4-weeks CNA classes in San Rafael?
Yes, some schools in San Rafael or nearby areas may offer accelerated CNA programs that can be completed in as little as 4 weeks, depending on class schedules and clinical requirements.
Which nearby cities are there for CNA classes and job opportunities?
Near San Rafael there are several other cities with CNA classes and job opportunities, such as Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Novato, Rohnert Park, and Vallejo. You can also look at the California state page to find more.
How do I get listed on the California CNA registry?
To work as a CNA in California, you must be added to the official state registry. See our California CNA registry guide for step-by-step instructions.
Where do CNAs work in San Rafael?
CNAs in San Rafael are employed in hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. Many also use their CNA experience as a stepping stone to LPN or RN careers.
Information Accuracy: Requirements, salary data, and other information are carefully compiled and based on the latest available sources, but may change. Please verify with official sources before making decisions. If you spot a mistake, let us know.