Key Takeaways
- Candidates must have a high school diploma or GED plus completion of a phlebotomy training program (or 1 year of work experience)
- Registration is completed online through NHA at nhanow.com with a $155 exam fee
- Testing is available at PSI testing centers or via online proctoring
- Retakes are allowed after a 30-day waiting period with no limit on total attempts
- CPT certification must be renewed every 2 years with 10 continuing education units (CEUs)
- NHA is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA)
CPT Certification Process
Becoming a Certified Phlebotomy Technician through the NHA requires meeting eligibility criteria, registering for the exam, passing the test, and maintaining your certification through continuing education. This section walks you through each step.
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | High school diploma or GED |
| Training | Completion of a phlebotomy training program (recommended) |
| Alternative | 1 year of full-time phlebotomy work experience in lieu of training |
| Age | Must be 18 years or older |
| Background | Some employers and states require background checks |
Phlebotomy Training Programs
Most candidates complete a phlebotomy training program before sitting for the NHA CPT exam:
- Duration: 4-8 weeks (accelerated) to 1 semester (college-based)
- Hours: Typically 40-80 classroom hours + 100-200 clinical hours
- Content: Anatomy, venipuncture technique, specimen handling, safety, medical terminology
- Clinical Component: Most programs require 100+ supervised venipuncture and 25+ capillary punctures
- Cost: $700-$3,000 depending on the program and location
- Setting: Community colleges, vocational schools, hospitals, and online/hybrid programs
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Step 1: Verify Eligibility
- Ensure you meet the education and training/experience requirements
- Gather documentation of your training program completion or work experience
Step 2: Create an NHA Account
- Visit nhanow.com and create a candidate account
- Enter your personal information and training program details
Step 3: Register for the CPT Exam
- Select the CPT certification exam
- Choose your preferred testing method: PSI testing center or online proctored
- Pay the $155 exam fee (credit/debit card accepted)
Step 4: Schedule Your Exam
- PSI testing center: Choose a location and available date/time
- Online proctored: Select an available time slot
- Bring a valid government-issued photo ID on exam day
Step 5: Take and Pass the Exam
- Complete the 100-question exam within 2 hours
- Receive preliminary pass/fail results immediately
- Official results and certification available within 48 hours
Re-Examination Policy
If you do not pass on your first attempt:
| Policy | Details |
|---|---|
| Waiting Period | 30 days between attempts |
| Retake Fee | $155 per attempt |
| Maximum Attempts | Unlimited |
| Study Requirement | NHA recommends additional study between attempts |
Certification Maintenance & Renewal
| Renewal Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Certification Period | 2 years from date of certification |
| CEU Requirement | 10 continuing education units (CEUs) per renewal cycle |
| Renewal Fee | Approximately $109 |
| CEU Sources | NHA online CE modules, conferences, workshops, college courses |
| Late Renewal | Grace period available; expired certifications may require re-examination |
NHA vs. Other Phlebotomy Certifications
| Certification | Body | Exam Questions | Fee | Recognition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPT | NHA | 100 questions | $155 | Most widely recognized nationally |
| PBT(ASCP) | ASCP | 100 questions | $200 | Highly respected in hospital settings |
| CPT (ASPT) | ASPT | 100 questions | $100 | Recognized in many states |
| RPT | AMT | 210 questions | $140 | Recognized in most states |
Tip: The NHA CPT is the most commonly accepted certification by employers across the United States. However, some states and employers may prefer or require ASCP certification, particularly in hospital laboratory settings. Research your state and target employer requirements before choosing.
Career Opportunities for Certified Phlebotomy Technicians
Phlebotomy certification opens the door to diverse healthcare career opportunities:
Work Settings
| Setting | Description | Typical Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Hospitals | Draw blood from inpatients and ER patients; fast-paced environment | Rotating shifts (days, evenings, nights, weekends) |
| Outpatient labs / Draw stations | Routine draws for walk-in patients and physician orders | Weekdays, business hours |
| Physician offices / Clinics | Support medical staff with blood draws and point-of-care testing | Weekdays, business hours |
| Blood banks / Donation centers | Collect blood donations; screen donors | Variable shifts |
| Home health agencies | Travel to patients' homes for blood collection | Weekdays, flexible hours |
| Research facilities | Collect specimens for clinical trials and research studies | Weekdays |
| Insurance companies | Collect specimens for life insurance paramedical exams | Flexible, appointment-based |
| Forensic / Legal | Chain of custody collections for drug testing, legal proceedings | Variable |
Salary Information (2026 Estimates)
| Experience Level | Salary Range | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (0-1 years) | $30,000 - $37,000 | $33,500 |
| Mid-level (2-5 years) | $35,000 - $42,000 | $38,500 |
| Experienced (5+ years) | $38,000 - $48,000 | $43,000 |
| Lead / Supervisor | $42,000 - $55,000 | $48,500 |
Note: Salaries vary significantly by location, employer, and setting. Hospital phlebotomists often earn more due to shift differentials (evening, night, weekend premiums). Metropolitan areas typically pay more than rural areas.
Career Advancement Pathways
| Pathway | From Phlebotomy To | Additional Education Required |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) | Associate degree program (2 years) | Builds on phlebotomy foundation |
| Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) | Bachelor's degree program (4 years) | Significant advancement in laboratory science |
| Nursing (RN/LPN) | Nursing program (1-4 years) | Phlebotomy experience is valuable |
| Phlebotomy Supervisor / Manager | Management experience + additional certification | Leadership and operational skills |
| Point-of-Care Testing Coordinator | Specialized training | POCT management and quality |
| Medical Assistant (CMA) | Medical assisting program (9-12 months) | Broader clinical scope |
How often must NHA CPT certification be renewed?
What is the minimum waiting period between NHA CPT exam retake attempts?
Which alternative pathway allows candidates to sit for the NHA CPT exam without completing a formal phlebotomy training program?
Match each phlebotomy certification to its certifying organization:
Match each item on the left with the correct item on the right
How many continuing education units (CEUs) are required for NHA CPT certification renewal?
Which certification body offers the most widely recognized phlebotomy certification nationally?