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Pennsylvania Assisted Living Administrator — Requirements & Free Practice

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Assisted Living Residence Administrator

Administrator qualification under Human Services Code section 213 and 55 Pa. Code sections 2800.53 and 2800.64, documented by training and competency-test certificates for DHS licensing inspection. The residence's facility license and the individual's documented administrator qualification are distinct. Temporary designee authorization is recorded as a limited route.

Licensing authority: Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, Office of Long-Term Living, Bureau of Human Services Licensing · Application information

Annual maintenance of an existing administrator qualification
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Annual training
24 annual hours related to job duties from section 2800.64(d) sources; initial training fulfills year one. The annual rule specifies training and records rather than a standalone ALRA examination.
Dementia training
Two additional dementia-specific hours annually under section 2800.69.
Documentation
Keep section 2800.64(e)-(f) training records and certificates.
Existing qualification
Already qualified with initial training and test completed or a lawful exemption; this route concerns annual maintenance.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2016-06-18.

Initial qualification with human services college education
Pennsylvania Assisted Living Residence Administrator Competency Test
Age and character
At least 21 years old and of good moral character under Human Services Code section 213(b)(1).
Annual training
At least 24 annual hours related to duties from approved sources under section 2800.64(c)-(d); the initial course fulfills year one.
Criminal history
Meet section 2800.51 and 2800.52 criminal-history, hiring and retention requirements under the Older Adult Protective Services Act.
Dementia training
Four hours of dementia-specific training within 30 days of hire and two hours annually, in addition to other training, under section 2800.69.
Documentation
Keep training records and completion certificates under section 2800.64(e)-(f). DHS page 66 treats retention and production on request as sufficient, without routine transmission.
Exam timing
Pass the ALRA competency test before initial employment. Since July 1, 2024, upload its completion certificate when registering for ALRA orientation. The 2026 schedule says the test follows the 15-hour course.
Fitness and abilities
Meet section 2800.53(c)-(h): manage the residence, provide or supervise services, know and comply with Chapter 2800 and applicable law, maintain records, and perform duties with reasonable skill and safety.
Initial training
Before initial employment, complete Department-approved orientation and training; DHS implements the 100-hour requirement through the PCHA course plus the 15-hour ALRA supplemental course.
Other profession test
The DHS guide, page 65, identifies the separate test associated with the personal care home 100-hour course. The PCHA examination is an applicant condition from another profession, not an ALRA leaf.
Qualification
An associate degree or 60 credits from an accredited college or university in a human services field and one year, in the preceding ten years, of direct care or administrative experience in a health care or human services field.
Training credit
DHS page 65 credits prior completion of the PCHA 100-hour course and says completed orientation and the 100-hour course need not be repeated. After a break exceeding one year, refresher orientation is strongly recommended.
Initial qualification as a licensed practical nurse
Pennsylvania Assisted Living Residence Administrator Competency Test
Age and character
At least 21 years old and of good moral character under Human Services Code section 213(b)(1).
Annual training
At least 24 annual hours related to duties from approved sources under section 2800.64(c)-(d); the initial course fulfills year one.
Criminal history
Meet section 2800.51 and 2800.52 criminal-history, hiring and retention requirements under the Older Adult Protective Services Act.
Dementia training
Four hours of dementia-specific training within 30 days of hire and two hours annually, in addition to other training, under section 2800.69.
Documentation
Keep training records and completion certificates under section 2800.64(e)-(f). DHS page 66 treats retention and production on request as sufficient, without routine transmission.
Exam timing
Pass the ALRA competency test before initial employment. Since July 1, 2024, upload its completion certificate when registering for ALRA orientation. The 2026 schedule says the test follows the 15-hour course.
Fitness and abilities
Meet section 2800.53(c)-(h): manage the residence, provide or supervise services, know and comply with Chapter 2800 and applicable law, maintain records, and perform duties with reasonable skill and safety.
Initial training
Before initial employment, complete Department-approved orientation and training; DHS implements the 100-hour requirement through the PCHA course plus the 15-hour ALRA supplemental course.
Other profession test
The DHS guide, page 65, identifies the separate test associated with the personal care home 100-hour course. The PCHA examination is an applicant condition from another profession, not an ALRA leaf.
Qualification
A Pennsylvania Department of State LPN license and one year, in the preceding ten years, of direct care or administrative experience in a health care or human services field.
Training credit
DHS page 65 credits prior completion of the PCHA 100-hour course and says completed orientation and the 100-hour course need not be repeated. After a break exceeding one year, refresher orientation is strongly recommended.
Continued qualification of nursing home administrators employed before January 18, 2011
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Exemption
Section 2800.64(g) exempts this cohort from its training and section 2800.53 qualification requirements. DHS page 65 expressly says no competency test is needed at any time.
Other profession license
Maintain the nursing home administrator license; its examinations belong to another profession.
Qualification
NHA licensed and employed as an ALRA before January 18, 2011; continue meeting applicable NHA licensing requirements.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2016-06-18.

Qualification for nursing home administrators hired after January 18, 2011
Pennsylvania Assisted Living Residence Administrator Competency Test
Age and character
At least 21 years old and of good moral character under Human Services Code section 213(b)(1).
Annual training
At least 24 annual hours related to duties from approved sources under section 2800.64(c)-(d); the initial course fulfills year one.
Criminal history
Meet section 2800.51 and 2800.52 criminal-history, hiring and retention requirements under the Older Adult Protective Services Act.
Dementia training
Four hours of dementia-specific training within 30 days of hire and two hours annually, in addition to other training, under section 2800.69.
Documentation
Keep training records and completion certificates under section 2800.64(e)-(f). DHS page 66 treats retention and production on request as sufficient, without routine transmission.
Exam timing
Pass the ALRA competency test before initial employment. Since July 1, 2024, upload its completion certificate when registering for ALRA orientation. The 2026 schedule says the test follows the 15-hour course.
Fitness and abilities
Meet section 2800.53(c)-(h): manage the residence, provide or supervise services, know and comply with Chapter 2800 and applicable law, maintain records, and perform duties with reasonable skill and safety.
Initial training
DHS page 65 exempts Pennsylvania-licensed NHAs from both courses; the 2026 schedule confirms the 15-hour exemption. Required ALRA orientation remains.
Official implementation statement
A Pennsylvania-licensed Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) does not need to take the 100-hour course or the 15- hour course at any time. An NHA who was hired or promoted to assisted living residence administrator prior to January 18, 2011 does not need to complete the competency test at any time. An NHA who is hired or promoted to assisted living residence administrator after January 18, 2011, must complete and pass the Department-approved competency test associated with the personal care home 100-hour course and the competency test associated with the 15-hour assisted living administrator course.
Other profession test
DHS page 65 requires both the separate PCHA 100-hour-course competency test and the ALRA 15-hour-course competency test for this cohort. The PCHA examination is an other-profession condition.
Qualification
A Pennsylvania nursing home administrator license and one year, in the preceding ten years, of direct care or administrative experience in health care or human services; hired as ALRA after January 18, 2011.
Training credit
DHS page 65 credits prior completion of the PCHA 100-hour course and says completed orientation and the 100-hour course need not be repeated. After a break exceeding one year, refresher orientation is strongly recommended.
Initial qualification with other college education
Pennsylvania Assisted Living Residence Administrator Competency Test
Age and character
At least 21 years old and of good moral character under Human Services Code section 213(b)(1).
Annual training
At least 24 annual hours related to duties from approved sources under section 2800.64(c)-(d); the initial course fulfills year one.
Criminal history
Meet section 2800.51 and 2800.52 criminal-history, hiring and retention requirements under the Older Adult Protective Services Act.
Dementia training
Four hours of dementia-specific training within 30 days of hire and two hours annually, in addition to other training, under section 2800.69.
Documentation
Keep training records and completion certificates under section 2800.64(e)-(f). DHS page 66 treats retention and production on request as sufficient, without routine transmission.
Exam timing
Pass the ALRA competency test before initial employment. Since July 1, 2024, upload its completion certificate when registering for ALRA orientation. The 2026 schedule says the test follows the 15-hour course.
Fitness and abilities
Meet section 2800.53(c)-(h): manage the residence, provide or supervise services, know and comply with Chapter 2800 and applicable law, maintain records, and perform duties with reasonable skill and safety.
Initial training
Before initial employment, complete Department-approved orientation and training; DHS implements the 100-hour requirement through the PCHA course plus the 15-hour ALRA supplemental course.
Other profession test
The DHS guide, page 65, identifies the separate test associated with the personal care home 100-hour course. The PCHA examination is an applicant condition from another profession, not an ALRA leaf.
Qualification
An associate degree or 60 credits from an accredited college or university in a field unrelated to human services and two years, in the preceding ten years, of direct care or administrative experience in a health care or human services field.
Training credit
DHS page 65 credits prior completion of the PCHA 100-hour course and says completed orientation and the 100-hour course need not be repeated. After a break exceeding one year, refresher orientation is strongly recommended.
Qualification with previously completed PCHA 100 hour training
Pennsylvania Assisted Living Residence Administrator Competency Test
Age and character
At least 21 years old and of good moral character under Human Services Code section 213(b)(1).
Annual training
At least 24 annual hours related to duties from approved sources under section 2800.64(c)-(d); the initial course fulfills year one.
Criminal history
Meet section 2800.51 and 2800.52 criminal-history, hiring and retention requirements under the Older Adult Protective Services Act.
Dementia training
Four hours of dementia-specific training within 30 days of hire and two hours annually, in addition to other training, under section 2800.69.
Documentation
Keep training records and completion certificates under section 2800.64(e)-(f). DHS page 66 treats retention and production on request as sufficient, without routine transmission.
Exam timing
Pass the ALRA competency test before initial employment. Since July 1, 2024, upload its completion certificate when registering for ALRA orientation. The 2026 schedule says the test follows the 15-hour course.
Fitness and abilities
Meet section 2800.53(c)-(h): manage the residence, provide or supervise services, know and comply with Chapter 2800 and applicable law, maintain records, and perform duties with reasonable skill and safety.
Initial training
DHS page 65 credits the completed 100-hour PCHA course; complete the 15-hour ALRA supplement, ALRA test and required orientation.
Other profession test
The DHS guide, page 65, identifies the separate test associated with the personal care home 100-hour course. The PCHA examination is an applicant condition from another profession, not an ALRA leaf.
Qualification
A PCHA who previously completed the 100-hour course; also meet an applicable section 2800.53(a) qualification.
Training credit
DHS page 65 credits prior completion of the PCHA 100-hour course and says completed orientation and the 100-hour course need not be repeated. After a break exceeding one year, refresher orientation is strongly recommended.
Qualification with legacy PCHA 40 hour training credit
Pennsylvania Assisted Living Residence Administrator Competency Test
Age and character
At least 21 years old and of good moral character under Human Services Code section 213(b)(1).
Annual training
At least 24 annual hours related to duties from approved sources under section 2800.64(c)-(d); the initial course fulfills year one.
Criminal history
Meet section 2800.51 and 2800.52 criminal-history, hiring and retention requirements under the Older Adult Protective Services Act.
Dementia training
Four hours of dementia-specific training within 30 days of hire and two hours annually, in addition to other training, under section 2800.69.
Documentation
Keep training records and completion certificates under section 2800.64(e)-(f). DHS page 66 treats retention and production on request as sufficient, without routine transmission.
Exam timing
Pass the ALRA competency test before initial employment. Since July 1, 2024, upload its completion certificate when registering for ALRA orientation. The 2026 schedule says the test follows the 15-hour course.
Fitness and abilities
Meet section 2800.53(c)-(h): manage the residence, provide or supervise services, know and comply with Chapter 2800 and applicable law, maintain records, and perform duties with reasonable skill and safety.
Initial training
DHS page 65 permits the 15-hour assisted living supplement and its test without repeating the 100-hour course.
Official implementation statement
Personal care home administrators who have taken the 100 hour administrator training course under 55 Pa. Code § 2600.64(a)(2) are only required to take the 15 hour supplemental course. Personal care home administrators who took the 40-hour course required by 55 Pa.Code Chapter 2620 (the personal care home regulations in place prior to October 25, 2005) and have not had more than a year break in service since the course was completed, and who take the 15-hour assisted living course supplement and pass the related competency test qualify as assisted living residence administrators. Inspection Procedures: Inspectors will review the administrator’s documentation of his/her qualifications. Primary Benefit: Ensures that the administrator will have the necessary education and experience to successfully perform the duties and responsibilities required of the position. 53b 2800.53(b) - The administrator shall be 21 years of age or older. Discussion: Self-explanatory. Inspection Procedures: Inspectors will review a copy of the administrator’s driver’s license or birth certificate to verify compliance with the regulation. Primary Benefit: Ensures that the administrator has the experience and maturity to address care-related issues that may arise in a residence. 58 Responsibilities of Administrators 2800.53(c) - The administrator shall be responsible for the administration and management of the 53c residence, including the health, safety and well-being of the residents, implementation of policies and procedures and compliance with this chapter. 2800.53(d) - The administrator shall have the ability to provide assisted living services or to 53d supervise or direct the work to provide assisted living services. 53e 2800.53(e) - The administrator shall have knowledge of this chapter. 2800.53(f) - The administrator shall have the ability to comply with applicable laws, rules and 53f regulations, including this chapter. 2800.53(g) - The administrator shall have the ability to maintain or supervise the maintenance of 53g financial and other records. Discussion: § 2800.53(c)-(g) sets forth the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to properly manage and administer an assisted living residence. Inspection Procedures: Inspection procedures will vary depending on the circumstances. Inspectors who suspect a violation of these regulations will immediately contact the regional office for direction. Primary Benefit: Ensures that administrators have the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to properly manage and administer an assisted living residence. 2800.53(h) – At all times the administrator shall be free from a medical condition, including drug or 53h alcohol addiction that would limit the administrator from performing duties with reasonable skill and safety. Discussion: Self-explanatory. Inspection Procedures: If there is reason to suspect that an administrator has a serious medical condition that would limit the individual from performing his or her duties with reasonable skill and safety, the inspector will immediately contact the regional office for direction. Primary Benefit: Ensures that the administrator poses no harm to residents due to a medical condition and is able to carry out his or her duties. 59 Qualifications for Direct Care Staff Persons 2800.54(a) - Direct care staff persons shall have the following qualifications: (1) Be 18 years of age or older, except as permitted in § 2800.54(d). (2) Have a high school diploma, GED diploma, or active registry status on the Pennsylvania nurse aide registry. 54a (3) Be free from a medical condition, including drug or alcohol addiction, that would limit direct care staff persons from providing necessary assisted living services with reasonable skill and safety. (4) Be able to communicate in a mode or manner understood by the resident. Discussion: The requirements at § 2800.54(a) apply to all staff, regardless of date of hire. Please see “Educational Requirements” in “Regulatory Issues and Frequently-Occurring Situations” for more information about minimum educational requirements and acceptable documentation. Inspection Procedures: Inspectors will review the staff persons’ documentation of their qualifications. If there is reason to suspect that a direct care staff person has a serious medical condition that would limit the individual from performing his or her duties with reasonable skill and safety, the inspector will immediately contact the regional office for direction. Primary Benefit: Ensures that direct care staff persons have the education and ability required to perform job duties specified by the residence, including activities of daily living. 2800.54(b) - A volunteer who performs or provides ADLs shall meet the staff person qualifications 54b and training requirements specified in this chapter. Discussion: An ADL includes eating, drinking, ambulating, transferring in and out of a bed or chair, toileting, bladder and bowel management, personal hygiene, securing health care, managing health care, self-administering medication and proper turning and positioning in a bed or chair. Any person who assists with ADLs must meet the regulatory requirements even if that person is not paid. A volunteer who does not provide assistance with these tasks does not need the training referenced in this regulation. Inspection Procedures: Inspectors will review the qualifications of a volunteer who performs ADLs exactly as they would review the qualifications of a direct care staff person in accordance with § 2800.54(a) - (b). Inspectors will review the training of a volunteer who performs ADLs exactly as they would review the training of a direct care staff person in accordance with § 2800.65(a) - (i). Primary Benefit: Volunteers performing activities of daily living services will have the qualifications and be properly trained in accordance with the training guidelines specified for direct care staff persons to ensure proper care and safety of the residents. 2800.54(c) – A resident receiving assisted living services who voluntarily performs tasks in the 54c residence will not be considered a volunteer under this chapter. Discussion: Self-explanatory. Inspection Procedures: Self-explanatory. Primary Benefit: Ensures that residents who receive assisted living services and who voluntarily performs tasks in the residence are not held to the same standards that volunteers of the residence are. 54d 2800.54(d) – Food services or housekeeping staff may be 16 or 17 years of age. Discussion: This regulation addresses students who work in the residence who have not yet completed their 60 secondary educations. A student who is currently enrolled in high school who does not yet have his/her high school diploma may provide assistance with food services or housekeeping. Inspection Procedures: If there are any staff persons working in the residence who are 16 or 17 years of age, inspectors will interview the staff persons and the administrator to determine their job duties and level of supervision. Primary Benefit: Ensures that individuals who provide assistance with food services or housekeeping have the necessary experience to do so in a safe and dignified manner. Administrator Staffing 2800.56 – Except for temporary absences under § 2800.56(b), the administrator shall be present in 56 the residence an average of 36 hours or more per week, in each calendar month. At least 30 hours per week must be during normal business hours. Discussion: This regulation requires the administrator to work in the residence performing administrator duties an average of 36 hours per week in each calendar month. This is the minimum requirement; the residence may require additional administrator hours, depending on the amount of time the administrator needs to fulfill all of his or her requirements. The residence may designate multiple administrators. If there are multiple individuals in a residence who fulfill the qualifications, training and responsibilities of an administrator, the individuals may share the 36 hours. Each person who is designated as an administrator will be held equally responsible for meeting the requirements at § 2800.53(b)-(h). Inspection Procedures: Inspectors will interview the administrator and staff persons regarding the amount of time the administrator works in the residence per week. Inspectors may review time logs, staff schedules, and payroll records to determine compliance, with the understanding that many administrators are compensated such that payroll records and formal time sheets will not capture all of the time administrators spend in the residence. At a minimum, inspectors will add the total hours worked in each week of the month prior to the month of the inspection and divide the sum by four. Primary Benefit: Allows the administrator sufficient time to complete required duties, maintain regulatory compliance, and ensure the residents of the residence receive the services as specified in the resident’s assessment and support plan. Direct Care and Professional Staffing 2800.57(a) - At all times one or more residents are present in the residence, a direct care staff 57a person who is 21 years of age or older shall be present in the residence. The direct care staff person may be the administrator if the administrator provides direct care services. 2800.57(b) - Direct care staff persons shall be available to provide at least 1 hour per day of 57b assisted living services to each mobile resident. 2800.57(c) - Direct care staff persons shall be available to provide at least 2 hours per day of 57c assisted living services to each resident who has mobility needs. 2800.57(d) - At least 75% of the assisted living service hours specified in § 2800.57(b) and 57d § 2800.57(c) shall be available during waking hours. 58 2800.58 - Direct care staff persons on duty in the residence shall be awake at all times. 2800.60(a) - Staffing shall be provided to meet the needs of the residents as specified in the 60a resident’s assessment and support plan. 2800.60(b) - The staffing level in this chapter is minimum only. The Department may require additional staffing as necessary to protect the health, safety and well-being of the residents. 60b Requirements for additional staffing will be based on the resident’s assessment and support plan, the design and construction of the residence and the operation and management of the residence. 61 2800.60(c) - Additional staff hours, or contractual hours, shall be provided as necessary to meet the 60c transportation, laundry, food service, housekeeping and maintenance needs of the residence. 2800.60(d) - In addition to the staffing requirements in this chapter, the residence shall have a 60d licensed nurse available in the building or on call at all times. The licensed nurse shall be either an employee of the residence or under contract with the residence. 2800.60(d) - The residence shall have a dietician on staff or under contract to provide for any 60e special dietary needs of a resident as indicated in his support plan. Discussion: Anyone who meets the qualifications of a direct-care staff person and is 21 years of age or older (including the administrator or a volunteer) will serve to meet the requirements of § 2800.57(a). • If one or more residents are in the residence, a staff person must be present. • If the residence consists of multiple buildings on one license, a staff person must be present in each building when one or more residents are in the residence. If no residents are present in the residence but may return at any time, a staff person must be present. (Q/A January 2015-2800.57(a)) • If no residents are present in the residence and will not return until an appointed time (for example, if all residents attend a partial-hospitalization program), a staff person does not need to be physically present in the residence, but sufficient staffing must be immediately available at any time the residents return to the residence. If this scenario may occur in a residence, it is recommended that the residence develop a plan to staff the residence in the event of a resident’s unexpected return. The staffing requirements required by § 2800.57(b)-(d) are the minimum allowable staff hours for regulatory compliance. Additional staff hours may need to be provided based on the needs identified in each resident’s assessment-support plan. Examples of needs that may necessitate additional staffing include: • Hands-on assistance to ambulate or evacuate from one or more persons. • 24-hour direct supervision. • An acute medical condition that requires special treatment or observation. See the “Direct Care and Professional Staffing” in “Regulatory Issues and Frequently-Occurring Situations” for more information about these requirements. For questions about a specific situation that may require additional staffing, please contact the Department’s Operator Support Hotline. Inspection Procedures: Inspectors will review staff schedules and payroll records to verify that this requirement is met. Inspectors will interview the administrator, staff and residents to ensure direct care staff persons are always awake and available in the residence. Inspectors will review a sample of residents’ assessments and support plans to determine if any additional assisted living staffing hours are specified and/or needed. Inspectors may interview staff persons and residents to determine if there is sufficient staffing to provide all of the necessary assisted living services. Inspectors will interview staff and residents to ensure there is sufficient staffing to provide all the services as specified in the residents’ assessments and support plans and to complete all the housekeeping, food service, and maintenance duties of the residence. Inspectors may review the residence’s records to determine the number of hours provided to complete the laundry, food service, housekeeping, and maintenance needs of the residence. Inspectors will review the residence’s system for supplying sufficient, adequately trained staff if regularly scheduled staff persons are absent. Primary Benefit: Ensures that a person qualified to meet residents’ needs or seek help in an emergency is present in the residence. Ensures that sufficient staff hours are provided to meet residents’ basic assisted living needs. Ensures that medical and dietary professionals are available to meet residents’ needs. Substitute Personnel 2800.61 - When regularly scheduled direct care staff persons are absent, the administrator shall 61 arrange for coverage by substitute personnel who meet the direct care staff qualifications and training requirements as specified in § 2800.54 and § 2800.65. Discussion: This regulation requires residences to have “back-up” coverage if a staff person calls off or does not show up for work. Inspection Procedures: Inspectors will review the residence’s system for supplying sufficient, adequately trained staff if regularly scheduled staff persons are absent. Primary Benefit: Ensures that residents’ needs will be met if a staff person does not come to work. 62 List of Staff Persons 2800.62 - The administrator shall maintain a current list of the names, addresses and telephone 62 numbers of staff persons including substitute personnel and volunteers. Discussion: Self-explanatory. Inspection Procedures: Inspectors will review the list of staff persons to ensure it is complete. Primary Benefit: Ensures that the administrator can quickly reach staff if additional or substitute help is required. First Aid, CPR and Obstructed Airway Training 2800.63(a) – For every 35 residents, there shall be at least one staff person trained in first aid and 63a certified in obstructed airway techniques and CPR present in the residence at all times to meet the needs of the residents. Discussion: “Obstructed airway techniques” means “responding to choking.” “Cardiopulmonary resuscitation” is commonly referred to as “CPR.” This regulation requires… • At least one staff person who is trained in first aid AND one staff person who is certified in obstructed airway techniques/CPR, OR • At least one staff person who is trained in BOTH first aid AND certified in obstructed airway techniques/CPR …for every 35 or fewer residents who are present in the residence or may be present in the residence on a given day. The table below shows the minimum number of trained and certified staff who must be present in the residence in order to comply with this regulation: Number of Staff who Must be Number of Staff who Must be Certified in Trained in First Aid Obstructed Airway Techniques/CPR Number of Residents (May also be the staff person who (May also be the staff person who is is certified in obstructed airway trained in first aid) techniques/CPR) Between 1 and 35 1 1 Between 36 and 70 2 2 Between 71 and 105 3 3 Between 106 and 140 4 4 Between 141 and 175 5 5 The residence should use the number of residents physically present in the residence to calculate the number of trained staff needed. If a resident is out of the residence for a specific time period (that is, the residence knows when a resident will return), or if a resident is hospitalized or staying elsewhere, then the resident is not counted as being physically present. Inspection Procedures: Inspectors will review staff schedules, payroll records and staff first aid, obstructed airway technique and CPR training or certification records to determine if the required number of staff persons have current training in first aid, obstructed airway techniques, and CPR Primary Benefit: Ensures that staff are appropriately trained to respond to an emergency, and that there are sufficient numbers of qualified staff to respond to simultaneous emergency situations (for example, if one resident is choking while another resident experiences cardiac arrest). 2800.63(b) - Current training in first aid and certification in obstructed airway techniques and CPR 63b shall be provided by an individual certified as a trainer by a hospital or other recognized health care organization. Discussion: “Recognized health care organization” includes but is not limited to: • The American Red Cross. • The American Heart Association. • The American Safety and Health Institute. A staff person who has been certified as a trainer by a hospital or other recognized health care organization may 63 train and certify other staff. Training that is conducted online with no hands-on practice does not provide the necessary training to ensure the staff person is able to properly perform CPR or first aid and will not be considered when measuring compliance. “Current” training means that the certification provided by the certification agency has not expired. For example, if a certification is issued for 12 months, the staff person must be recertified prior to the end of the 12-month certification period. Inspection Procedures: Inspectors will review the training documentation to ensure it was provided by an individual certified as a trainer by a hospital or other recognized health care organization. Primary Benefit: Ensures that staff persons receive proper training to respond to an emergency situation 2800.63(c) – Licensed, certified and registered medical personnel meet the qualifications in 63c § 2800.63(a) and are exempt from the training requirements in subsections § 2800.63(a) and § 2800.63(b). Discussion: Licensed, certified and registered medical personnel include: • A Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA). • A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). • A Registered Nurse (RN). • A Physician. • An Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). Licenses must be in good standing and not expired. Inspection Procedures: Inspectors will verify the licensure status of any licensed, certified and registered medical personnel the residence employs for compliance with § 2800.63(a). Primary Benefit: Permits the residence to include medical personnel to meet residents’ emergency care needs. 2800.63(d) - A staff person who is trained in first aid or certified in obstructed airway techniques or 63d CPR shall provide those services in accordance with his/her training, unless the resident has a “do not resuscitate” order. Discussion: This regulation means that a person who is trained in first aid and/or certified in obstructed airway techniques/CPR must administer first aid, respond to a choking event, or perform CPR in the event of an emergency. Trained staff may not abstain from performing any such duties in an emergency. The Department will recognize the following as acceptable “Do Not Resuscitate” orders: • “Pennsylvania Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment” (POLST) form. The form may be completed in its entirety, but the Department will only measure whether “Section A: Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation” has been completed. • An out of hospital DNR. • Any document accepted by the home’s local EMS responders. The instructions on the POLST form say that it must be signed by a physician/PA/CRNP, so the POLST form should not conflict with a doctor’s order like a DNR. If a resident changes a POLST or DNR, both documents (if both are on file) should be updated so that they are complimentary, and the old documents removed from the file so that only the current forms are accessible. This can avoid confusion in an emergency situation. When Not to Perform CPR - The Department will not list situations where CPR does not need to be performed, such as when a resident is “clearly deceased.” In the event that CPR is not performed, the Department will review the training received to determine whether the staff person acted appropriately. (Q/A April 2017-2800.63(d)) Inspection Procedures: Inspectors will interview the administrator and staff persons to determine if CPR, first aid or clearing of a resident’s obstructed airway have been withheld or not performed for any reason. If these services have been withheld for any reason, the inspector will review the resident’s record and DNR order, if applicable. Primary Benefit: Ensures that residents will receive life-saving services in an emergency. 64 Administrator Training and Orientation 2800.64(a) - Prior to initial employment as an administrator, a candidate shall successfully complete the following: (1) An orientation program approved and administered by the Department. 64a (2) A 100-hour standardized Department-approved administrator training course. The training provided for in § 2800.69 (relating to additional dementia-specific training) shall be in addition to the 100-hour training course. (3) A Department-approved competency-based training test with a passing score. Discussion: The approved orientation program is a day-long course offered as needed in each of the Department’s regional offices. A schedule of courses may be obtained by calling the regional office applicable to where the residence is located, calling the Department’s headquarters office, calling the Operator Support Hotline, or visiting the Department’s website. The 100-hour standardized Department-approved administrator training course (“the 100-hour course”) is provided by several colleges and universities throughout Pennsylvania. Information on the 100-hour course may be obtained by calling the regional office applicable to where the residence is located, calling the Department’s headquarters office, calling the Operator Support Hotline, or visiting the Department’s website. The 100-hour course currently utilized by the Department is the personal care home administrator 100-hour course plus an additional 15-hour assisted living administrator course. The One-Day Orientation Program - Once an administrator attends the orientation program, (s)he does not need to attend it again. It is strongly recommended that an administrator who has a break in service longer than one year voluntarily attend the orientation program again as a refresher course. The 100-hour Course - Once an administrator takes the 100-hour course, (s)he does not need to take it again. A Pennsylvania-licensed Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) does not need to take the 100-hour course or the 15- hour course at any time. An NHA who was hired or promoted to assisted living residence administrator prior to January 18, 2011 does not need to complete the competency test at any time. An NHA who is hired or promoted to assisted living residence administrator after January 18, 2011, must complete and pass the Department-approved competency test associated with the personal care home 100-hour course and the competency test associated with the 15-hour assisted living administrator course. Personal care home administrators who have taken the 100 hour administrator training course under 55 Pa. Code § 2600.64(a)(2) are only required to take the 15 hour supplemental course. Personal care home administrators who took the 40-hour course required by 55 Pa.Code Chapter 2620 (the personal care home regulations in place prior to October 25, 2005) and have not had more than a year break in service since the course was completed, and who take the 15-hour assisted living course supplement and pass the related competency test qualify as assisted living residence administrators.
Other profession test
The DHS guide, page 65, identifies the separate test associated with the personal care home 100-hour course. The PCHA examination is an applicant condition from another profession, not an ALRA leaf.
Qualification
A PCHA who took the former Chapter 2620 40-hour course before October 25, 2005 with no break exceeding one year since completion. Also meet controlling section 2800.53(a), including its January 18, 2012 deadline if relying on subsection (a)(6).
Training credit
DHS page 65 credits prior completion of the PCHA 100-hour course and says completed orientation and the 100-hour course need not be repeated. After a break exceeding one year, refresher orientation is strongly recommended.
Qualification based on personal care home administrator experience before January 18, 2011
Pennsylvania Assisted Living Residence Administrator Competency Test
Age and character
At least 21 years old and of good moral character under Human Services Code section 213(b)(1).
Annual training
At least 24 annual hours related to duties from approved sources under section 2800.64(c)-(d); the initial course fulfills year one.
Criminal history
Meet section 2800.51 and 2800.52 criminal-history, hiring and retention requirements under the Older Adult Protective Services Act.
Dementia training
Four hours of dementia-specific training within 30 days of hire and two hours annually, in addition to other training, under section 2800.69.
Documentation
Keep training records and completion certificates under section 2800.64(e)-(f). DHS page 66 treats retention and production on request as sufficient, without routine transmission.
Exam timing
Pass the ALRA competency test before initial employment. Since July 1, 2024, upload its completion certificate when registering for ALRA orientation. The 2026 schedule says the test follows the 15-hour course.
Excluded prior qualification
Section 2800.53(a)(6) excludes PCHA qualification under section 2600.53(a)(5): high school/GED plus two years of experience for homes serving eight or fewer residents.
Fitness and abilities
Meet section 2800.53(c)-(h): manage the residence, provide or supervise services, know and comply with Chapter 2800 and applicable law, maintain records, and perform duties with reasonable skill and safety.
Initial training
Before initial employment, complete Department-approved orientation and training; DHS implements the 100-hour requirement through the PCHA course plus the 15-hour ALRA supplemental course.
Other profession test
The DHS guide, page 65, identifies the separate test associated with the personal care home 100-hour course. The PCHA examination is an applicant condition from another profession, not an ALRA leaf.
Qualification
Employed as a PCHA for two years before January 18, 2011; completed administrator training and passed the ALRA test by January 18, 2012. Prior passage of the currently offered examination remains a leaf; its deadline is a condition.
Training credit
DHS page 65 credits prior completion of the PCHA 100-hour course and says completed orientation and the 100-hour course need not be repeated. After a break exceeding one year, refresher orientation is strongly recommended.
Transfer or return to employment of an already qualified administrator
Pennsylvania Assisted Living Residence Administrator Competency Test
Age and character
At least 21 years old and of good moral character under Human Services Code section 213(b)(1).
Annual training
At least 24 annual hours related to duties from approved sources under section 2800.64(c)-(d); the initial course fulfills year one.
Criminal history
Meet section 2800.51 and 2800.52 criminal-history, hiring and retention requirements under the Older Adult Protective Services Act.
Dementia training
Four hours of dementia-specific training within 30 days of hire and two hours annually, in addition to other training, under section 2800.69.
Documentation
Keep training records and completion certificates under section 2800.64(e)-(f). DHS page 66 treats retention and production on request as sufficient, without routine transmission.
Exam timing
Section 2800.64(a) requires completion before initial employment; prior ALRA passage remains the currently offered examination involved in this qualification. A new employer does not change the original completion condition.
Fitness and abilities
Meet section 2800.53(c)-(h): manage the residence, provide or supervise services, know and comply with Chapter 2800 and applicable law, maintain records, and perform duties with reasonable skill and safety.
Initial training
DHS page 65 says completed orientation and the 100-hour course need not be repeated; refresher orientation after a break exceeding one year is recommended.
Other profession test
The DHS guide, page 65, identifies the separate test associated with the personal care home 100-hour course. The PCHA examination is an applicant condition from another profession, not an ALRA leaf.
Qualification
Already qualified under an applicable section 2800.53 pathway; retain proof of initial training, ALRA examination passage or lawful exemption.
Training credit
DHS page 65 credits prior completion of the PCHA 100-hour course and says completed orientation and the 100-hour course need not be repeated. After a break exceeding one year, refresher orientation is strongly recommended.
Initial qualification as a registered nurse
Pennsylvania Assisted Living Residence Administrator Competency Test
Age and character
At least 21 years old and of good moral character under Human Services Code section 213(b)(1).
Annual training
At least 24 annual hours related to duties from approved sources under section 2800.64(c)-(d); the initial course fulfills year one.
Criminal history
Meet section 2800.51 and 2800.52 criminal-history, hiring and retention requirements under the Older Adult Protective Services Act.
Dementia training
Four hours of dementia-specific training within 30 days of hire and two hours annually, in addition to other training, under section 2800.69.
Documentation
Keep training records and completion certificates under section 2800.64(e)-(f). DHS page 66 treats retention and production on request as sufficient, without routine transmission.
Exam timing
Pass the ALRA competency test before initial employment. Since July 1, 2024, upload its completion certificate when registering for ALRA orientation. The 2026 schedule says the test follows the 15-hour course.
Fitness and abilities
Meet section 2800.53(c)-(h): manage the residence, provide or supervise services, know and comply with Chapter 2800 and applicable law, maintain records, and perform duties with reasonable skill and safety.
Initial training
Before initial employment, complete Department-approved orientation and training; DHS implements the 100-hour requirement through the PCHA course plus the 15-hour ALRA supplemental course.
Other profession test
The DHS guide, page 65, identifies the separate test associated with the personal care home 100-hour course. The PCHA examination is an applicant condition from another profession, not an ALRA leaf.
Qualification
A Pennsylvania Department of State RN license and one year, in the preceding ten years, of direct care or administrative experience in a health care or human services field.
Training credit
DHS page 65 credits prior completion of the PCHA 100-hour course and says completed orientation and the 100-hour course need not be repeated. After a break exceeding one year, refresher orientation is strongly recommended.
Temporary administrator designee authorization
Pennsylvania Assisted Living Residence Administrator Competency Test
Authorization
Written appointment to supervise during the administrator's temporary absence under section 2800.56(b). This is temporary designee authorization.
Direct care qualification
Meet section 2800.54: age at least 18, high school diploma/GED or active Pennsylvania nurse aide registry status, fitness and ability to communicate with residents.
Experience
3,000 hours of direct operational responsibility for a Commonwealth-licensed or approved senior housing, health care, residential care, adult daily living facility or other group home.
On call
The administrator or designee remains on-call during absence under section 2800.56(d).
Other profession test
Meet section 2800.65 direct care training and orientation, including its separate direct care competency test where applicable, with recognized exemptions. This examination is a condition from another profession, not an ALRA leaf.

Pennsylvania Assisted Living Residence Administrator Competency Test

Format
Online computerized competency assessment
Passing score
A passing score is required under 55 Pa. Code section 2800.64(a)(3); the cited DHS material does not specify a numerical threshold.
Practice scope

The authority has not published an examination outline; the practice questions follow the scope of the existing question bank.

  • Fire prevention and emergency preparedness
    • Fire prevention and emergency preparedness
  • Medication procedures, effects, universal precautions and personal hygiene
    • Medication management and resident hygiene
  • CPR, obstructed airway techniques and first aid
    • CPR, obstructed airway techniques and first aid
  • Assisted living services
    • Assisted living and supplemental health care services
  • Laws and regulations pertaining to operation
    • Licensure and regulatory compliance
  • Nutrition, food handling and sanitation
    • Nutrition, meals, food handling and sanitation
  • Recreation
    • Activities and recreation programs
  • Care for residents with mental illness
    • Mental and behavioral health supports
  • Resident rights
    • Resident rights and complaint procedures
  • Care for residents with cognitive and neurological impairments and other special needs
    • Cognitive, neurological and special-needs supports
  • Care for residents with an intellectual disability
    • Supports for residents with intellectual disabilities
  • Community resources, social services and activities
    • Community resources and social services
  • Staff supervision and training
    • Staff supervision, orientation and training plans
  • Budgeting, financial recordkeeping and resident records
    • Financial management, assessments, support plans, contracts and records
  • Gerontology
    • Aging-related functional needs and supports
  • Abuse and neglect prevention and reporting
    • Abuse and neglect prevention, protection and reporting
  • Cultural competency
    • Culturally and linguistically responsive care
  • Infection control
    • Infection control and communicable-disease precautions
  • Training specific to resident composition
    • Training matched to resident composition and special care units
  • Person-centered care, informed consent and aging in place
    • Person-centered care, informed consent and aging in place
  • Incident management and reporting
    • Reportable incidents, investigation and notification
  • Requirements of 55 Pa. Code Chapter 2800
    • Administrator responsibility for Chapter 2800 compliance
Examination sources