If you’re trying to become an IHSS provider in California, one of the most common questions is:
“Where do I go online to watch the required IHSS orientation videos?”
The process can feel confusing because there isn’t just one statewide website. IHSS is run at the county level, so each county handles orientation a little differently.
This guide will walk you through exactly what to do—step by step—with direct links to help you get started quickly.
What Are the IHSS Orientation Videos?
Before you can start working as an IHSS provider and getting paid, California requires you to complete:
- IHSS Provider Orientation (sometimes online videos)
- Enrollment paperwork
- Background check (fingerprinting)
The orientation videos explain:
- Your responsibilities as a caregiver
- Timesheets and payment process
- Program rules and fraud prevention
Step 1: Register as an IHSS Provider
Start here:
👉 https://www.cdss.ca.gov/in-home-supportive-services
Scroll to “Become a Provider”
This page explains the full process statewide.
Step 2: Contact Your Local IHSS Office
IHSS is handled by your county, and this is where most people get stuck.
Use this directory:
👉 https://www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/county-ihss-offices
Find your county and call or visit their website.
They will:
- Tell you how to register for orientation
- Give you access to videos or schedule you for a session
Step 3: Watch the IHSS Orientation Videos (Online or In Person)
Here’s the important part:
✔ Some counties offer online videos
✔ Others require live Zoom or in-person orientation
Example – Los Angeles County:
👉 https://dpss.lacounty.gov/en/senior-and-disabled/ihss.html
Look for “Provider Enrollment” or “Orientation”
You may be directed to:
- Watch videos online
- Or schedule a virtual orientation session
Step 4: Complete Fingerprinting (Live Scan)
After orientation, you’ll be instructed to complete a background check.
More info:
👉 https://oag.ca.gov/fingerprints
You’ll need:
- A Live Scan form from your county
- Valid ID
Step 5: Finish Enrollment & Start Working
Once everything is completed:
- Orientation ✔
- Background check ✔
- Paperwork ✔
You’ll be officially approved as an IHSS provider and can begin working and submitting timesheets.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting for videos without contacting your county first
- Assuming there’s one statewide portal (there isn’t)
- Missing orientation scheduling emails
- Not completing fingerprinting right away
Pro Tip: Finding Clients After Orientation
Once you’re approved, the next step is finding a recipient to work for.
That’s where platforms like IHSS Connect come in—helping caregivers and families connect directly across California.
Quick Summary
If you’re trying to find the IHSS orientation videos:
- Go to the CDSS website
- Contact your local county IHSS office
- Register for orientation (videos or live session)
- Complete fingerprinting
- Finish enrollment
Still Confused? You’re Not Alone
The IHSS process isn’t always clear—but once you know that everything runs through your county, it becomes much easier to navigate.
If you’re unsure what to do next, start by calling your local IHSS office—they’ll point you directly to the correct orientation videos or sign-up link.
Helpful IHSS California Links
1. Electronic Timesheets / Provider Portal
👉 https://www.etimesheets.ihss.ca.gov/login
✔️ This is the official IHSS Electronic Services Portal where providers submit timesheets and manage payments
2. IHSS Provider Resources (CDSS)
👉 https://www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/cdss-programs/ihss/ihss-provider-resources
✔️ Includes direct deposit, provider info, and official guidance
3. IHSS General Program Page
👉 https://www.cdss.ca.gov/in-home-supportive-services
✔️ Main statewide IHSS overview page
4. County IHSS Offices Directory
👉 https://www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/county-ihss-offices
✔️ Essential for finding orientation access by county
5. Live Scan Fingerprinting Locations (DOJ)
👉 https://oag.ca.gov/fingerprints/locations
✔️ Official DOJ site for required background checks (Live Scan)
6. Los Angeles County IHSS Provider Page (Example County)
👉 https://dpss.lacounty.gov/en/senior-and-disabled/ihss/providers.html
✔️ Includes enrollment steps and helpline info
7. Fresno County (Great Example of Online Orientation + Videos)
✔️ Confirms that some counties provide online orientation videos directly
8. IHSS Connect
✔️ Statewide free network for caregivers to register and find work in their area.
