How to Become a Phlebotomy Technician

To become a phlebotomy technician, you need a high school diploma or GED, completion of an approved phlebotomy training program (typically 40–120 hours), and national certification through organizations such as the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). Some states, including California, also require state licensure. The entire process usually takes 2-6 months from start to certification.

If you’re considering a career as a certified phlebotomy technician, this guide breaks down every step. From choosing the right training program to passing your certification exam and landing your first job. Whether you live in California or elsewhere, here’s exactly what you need to know to start your phlebotomy career.

Steps to Become a Phlebotomy Technician

Understanding the phlebotomy certification requirements is the first step toward starting your healthcare career. These requirements ensure you have the right education, training, and credentials to safely and effectively collect blood samples in medical settings.

Step 1: Meet Basic Education Requirements

To enroll in a phlebotomy training program, you need a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Most programs require proof of graduation through an official transcript or passing scores from one of these recognized tests:

• General Educational Development (GED)
• High School Equivalency Test (HiSET)
• California High School Proficiency Examination (CHSPE) – for California residents

Some programs may also ask for a valid CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) certification before clinical training begins, as you’ll be working directly with patients. You may need to provide proof of immunizations against bloodborne diseases, since phlebotomists face potential exposure to needlestick injuries.

Step 2: Choose an Approved Phlebotomy Training Program

Some programs meet only the minimum state or national phlebotomy certification requirements, while others provide the comprehensive hands-on training you need to become a certified phlebotomy technician.

When comparing schools, look for programs that:

• Are accredited or state-approved, ensuring your training counts toward certification
• Include both classroom instruction and clinical practice
• Prepare you for national exams such as the NHA CPT certification phlebotomy test
• Offer career placement assistance or externship opportunities

Program Length: Finding the Right Balance

Phlebotomy programs typically range from 40 to 160 hours. While shorter programs may seem convenient, they often skip critical practice time.

• Under 60 hours: Rushed and less confidence-building
• 80-120 hours: The sweet spot. Thorough, efficient, and skill-focused
• 150+ hours: May include extra general education, taking longer and costing more

An 80-120-hour format ensures solid skill development without unnecessary coursework.

Clinical Training Requirements

Your hands-on experience is what turns theory into skill.

CDPH requirements include:

• 50 successful venipunctures
• 10 successful skin punctures

What Phlebotomy Technician Programs Should Include?

Classroom Instruction (40-50 hours minimum):

• Anatomy and physiology of the circulatory system
• Venipuncture and skin puncture techniques
• Infection control and bloodborne pathogen safety
• Equipment selection and handling
• Patient identification and communication
• Complication management and ethical standards

Supervised Clinical Externship (40+ hours):

• Real patient venipunctures in healthcare settings
• Exposure to diverse patient types
• Specimen labeling, processing, and documentation
• Collaboration within real healthcare teams

Red Flags to Watch For

Avoid programs that:

• Are not state-approved (especially in CA, LA, NV, WA)
• Offer “fully online” phlebotomy training (hands-on is required)
• Require fewer than 50 venipunctures
• Skip externships or lack hospital partnerships
• Don’t prepare students for a specific certification exam

Example of a Quality Program

Montes HealthCare College’s 88-hour Phlebotomy Technician Program is a great starting point thanks to its structure for both confidence and competence:

• Basic Module (24 hours): Infection control, anatomy, venipuncture fundamentals
• Advanced Module (24 hours): Complication management, advanced techniques, quality assurance
• Externship (40 hours): 50 successful venipunctures + 10 skin punctures under supervision

Step 3: Complete Your Phlebotomy Training

This is where your knowledge and skills come together to prepare you for phlebotomy technician certification and real-world work in healthcare.

Classroom Instruction Phase

Your classroom or didactic training builds the foundation you need to collect blood safely and accurately. Coursework in an approved phlebotomy training program typically covers:

• Basic and advanced anatomy (veins, arteries, and capillaries)
• Medical terminology used in laboratory and hospital settings
• Types of blood collection equipment (needles, tubes, tourniquets, butterfly needles)
• Venipuncture and skin puncture techniques for various patient populations
• Infection control standards and bloodborne pathogen safety
• Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and universal precautions
• Patient identification and specimen labeling protocols
• The order of draw and tube additive purposes (anticoagulants, preservatives)
• Managing complications such as hematomas, fainting, or nerve irritation
• Patient communication and professionalism
• Legal, ethical, and quality assurance responsibilities

Clinical Externship Phase

After completing classroom training, you’ll move on to your clinical experience or externship at a hospital, clinic, laboratory, or blood donation center. This phase allows you to apply your knowledge with real patients under professional supervision.

During your externship, you’ll:

• Perform venipunctures on patients of all ages and health conditions
• Practice skin puncture techniques on pediatric and adult patients
• Learn how to identify suitable veins, even in difficult cases
• Gain experience calming anxious or fearful patients
• Prepare, maintain, and clean up phlebotomy equipment
• Label and process specimens following strict facility protocols
• Work alongside nurses, physicians, and laboratory staff
• Adapt to the fast-paced workflow of a clinical environment

Step 4: Pass Your Phlebotomy Certification Exam

In California, this process includes passing a national certification exam from a CDPH-approved organization, followed by submitting your application to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) for review.

Passing the exam does not guarantee licensure. CDPH conducts background checks, and applicants may be denied if issues arise during the review process.

CDPH-Approved National Certifications Include:

• National Healthcareer Association (NHA) – Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)
• American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) – Phlebotomy Technician (PBT)
• American Medical Technologists (AMT) – Registered Phlebotomy Technician (RPT)
• Other certifications approved by CDPH

NHA CPT Requirements

To qualify for the NHA CPT certification, you must:

• Complete an approved phlebotomy training program
• Provide documentation of 30 venipunctures and 10 capillary sticks (MHCC exceeds this with 50 venipunctures to ensure greater clinical confidence)
• Pass a 100-question multiple-choice exam (2-hour time limit)
• Pay the applicable exam fee, check the website for current pricing. One attempt at the certification exam is included in MHCC tuition. If a student does not pass on the first attempt, any additional exam fees will be the student’s responsibility.

Once you’ve passed the NHA CPT exam, you can apply to the CDPH for your California Certified Phlebotomy Technician I (CPT-I) license. This license officially authorizes you to perform both venipuncture and skin puncture blood collection throughout the state.

Step 5: Apply for State Licensure (If Required)

After earning your national phlebotomy certification, your next step depends on where you plan to work. Only four states currently require phlebotomy technicians to obtain state licensure in addition to national certification: California, Louisiana, Nevada, and Washington.

California Phlebotomy Licensure

California has the most detailed phlebotomy certification requirements, offering three license levels, each with different scopes of practice:

• Limited Phlebotomy Technician (LPT)
  • Complete a state-approved 20-hour didactic/classroom phlebotomy training program
  • Successfully perform a minimum of 25 skin punctures
  • Requirements: Approved training and CDPH application
  • Fee: $100 initial application, renewed every 2 years
    
• Certified Phlebotomy Technician I (CPT-I)
  • A high school diploma, GED, or a foreign transcript
  • 40 hours of classroom instruction
  • 40 hours of clinical training
  • 50 venipunctures (blood draws) and 10 capillary sticks under supervision
  • Pass an approved certification exam
  • Fee: $100 initial application, renewed every 2 years
  • Most common entry-level certification
    
• Certified Phlebotomy Technician II (CPT-II)
  • Must be CPT-I certified
  • 1,040 hours of on-the-job phlebotomy experience in the past five years.
  • Completion of 20 arterial punctures
  • Requirements: Additional training beyond CPT-I
  • Fee: $100 initial application, renewed every 2 years
    

If you’re training in California, make sure your program is approved by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) to ensure you qualify for state licensure.

After passing your national exam (such as the NHA CPT certification phlebotomy test), California residents must complete one more step, which is applying for licensure through the CDPH. Your national certification alone does not authorize you to work as a certified phlebotomy technician in California; both credentials are required.

Louisiana Phlebotomy Licensure

• High school diploma or GED
• Complete a state-approved phlebotomy training program
• Pass a national phlebotomy certification exam and receive your certification
• Obtain and submit proof of a valid CPR certification
• Pass a criminal background check as part of the licensing process
• Submit an application to the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners to receive your license

Nevada Phlebotomy Licensure

• High school diploma or GED
• Complete a phlebotomy training program
• Pass a national certification exam
• Obtain a Nevada medical laboratory personnel license
• Maintain your certification

Washington Phlebotomy Licensure

• Must have a high school diploma or a GED
• Complete a state-approved phlebotomy training program
• Get a “Medical Assistant – Phlebotomist” license from the Washington State Department of Health
• Pass a national phlebotomy certification exam
• Be prepared for a criminal background check
• Provide a statement about your health history

Step 6: Build Your Resume and Apply for Jobs

With your phlebotomy certification and state license (if required) in hand, you’re ready to begin your career as a certified phlebotomy technician.

Where Phlebotomy Technicians Work?

Phlebotomy offers workplace variety and flexibility across many healthcare settings, including:

• Hospitals and medical centers: Inpatient blood draws, emergency room collections, and specialty unit work
• Diagnostic laboratories: High-volume testing and processing for multiple providers
• Blood donation centers: Collecting blood from volunteer donors
• Doctor’s offices and outpatient clinics: Routine patient blood work
• Nursing homes and assisted living facilities: Ongoing monitoring for residents
• Mobile phlebotomy services: Traveling to patients’ homes or workplaces
• Insurance companies: Performing blood draws for medical underwriting exams
• Research facilities: Supporting clinical trials and laboratory studies

Build a Strong Resume

Even without prior healthcare experience, you can create a standout resume by focusing on your training and accomplishments.

Include:

• Your phlebotomy certification(s) and license number (if applicable)
• Clinical hours and number of successful venipunctures completed
• Training program name and graduation date
• Relevant coursework such as infection control, anatomy, and patient care
• Any volunteer work or related healthcare experience
• Soft skills: attention to detail, empathy, communication, professionalism
• CPR certification and any awards or honors earned during training
• Even without prior healthcare experience, emphasizing your training, certification, clinical hours, and successful venipuncture count can help you land your first phlebotomy position.

Get Letters of Recommendation

A strong letter of recommendation can make a big difference for new graduates. Ask for references from:

• Your training program instructors
• Your externship supervisor
• Teachers, coaches, or mentors who can speak to your reliability and work ethic
• Any healthcare professionals you’ve shadowed or volunteered with

Job Search Strategies

Online job boards:

• General: Indeed, Monster
• Healthcare-specific: Health eCareers, HospitalCareers.com
• Professional networks: LinkedIn Jobs

Direct applications:

• Visit hospital, lab, and clinic websites to apply directly
• Many large organizations post only on their internal job boards
• Call local facilities to ask about openings or upcoming hiring events

Networking:

• Stay in touch with classmates and instructors from your phlebotomy training program
• Ask your school about job placement assistance or alumni job leads
• Attend local healthcare job fairs

Temporary staffing agencies:

• Great for building experience quickly
• Lets you explore different work settings before committing
• Many temporary roles lead to permanent offers

Interview Preparation Tips

To make a great first impression:

• Research the facility before your interview
• Prepare answers for common questions (“Why phlebotomy?” “How do you calm nervous patients?”)
• Have questions ready to ask your interviewer
• Bring extra copies of your resume and certification documents
• Dress professionally. Clean scrubs or business casual attire are ideal
• Practice with a friend or instructor to boost confidence

Step 7: Maintain Your Certification and Continue Learning

Most certifying organizations require ongoing learning to ensure technicians stay up to date with current phlebotomy certification requirements, safety standards, and new medical technologies.

Certification Renewal Requirements

NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT):

• Renewal required every 2 years
• 10 continuing education (CE) credits required
• $185 renewal fee for non-members. Members receive a 20% discount.
• CE can be earned through online courses, workshops, or healthcare conferences

ASCP Phlebotomy Technician (PBT):

• Renewal required every 3 years
• Must complete continuing education or provide proof of recent work experience
• Renewal fees vary by membership status

AMT Registered Phlebotomy Technician (RPT):

• Renewal required every 3 years
• Continuing education credits required
• Contact American Medical Technologists (AMT) for current renewal fee details

State License Renewal

If you hold a state license in addition to national certification, you must also keep it active.

• In California, licenses are renewed every 2 years with a $100 renewal fee through the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).
• Some states may require proof of CE completion as part of renewal.

Continuing Education Opportunities

Continuing education not only satisfies renewal requirements but also strengthens your skills, improves patient care, and supports career growth. You can earn CE credits through:

• Online courses offered by your certifying organization
• Workshops and seminars hosted by healthcare associations
• Professional conferences focused on laboratory science and medical technology
• Journal reviews and interactive case studies
• Employer-provided training on new equipment, safety procedures, or laboratory techniques

Career Advancement Options

As you gain experience, your career opportunities expand beyond entry-level roles. Many phlebotomists grow into leadership or specialized positions, including:

• Lead or Senior Phlebotomist
• Phlebotomy Supervisor or Manager
• Laboratory Assistant or Technician
• Specialized Phlebotomy (pediatric, oncology, or geriatric)
• Training or Education roles, teaching new students or onboarding clinical staff
• Further education in nursing, medical laboratory science, or other healthcare disciplines

How Long Does It Take to Become a Phlebotomy Technician?

The time it takes to become a phlebotomy technician depends on the type of phlebotomy training program you choose and how quickly you move through each step. Most students complete their training and start working within a few months.

Typical Training Timelines

Accelerated Full-Time Programs:

• Duration: 1-3 months (40-90 hours)
• Best for: Students who can commit to daytime classes and want to start working quickly

Standard Full-Time Programs:

• Duration: 3-4 months (80-160 hours)
• Best for: Students who prefer a more moderate pace with additional practice and classroom time

Part-Time Programs:

• Duration: 4-8 months
• Best for: Working adults or parents balancing school, work, and family responsibilities

After Training: What to Expect

• Certification Exam: Can usually be scheduled within days to weeks after completing your program
• State Licensure Processing (if required): Takes about 2-6 weeks depending on your state
• Job Search: Most newly certified phlebotomists find employment within 1-3 months of graduation

Example Timeline Overview

How Much Does Phlebotomy Training Cost?

Phlebotomy is one of the most affordable and accessible entry points into healthcare. Compared to traditional nursing or medical degrees, a phlebotomy training program requires less time and money while still leading to a rewarding, in-demand career.

Typical Phlebotomy Training Costs

Keep in mind that phlebotomy certification costs, such as exam and state licensing fees, are typically separate from tuition.

Paying for Phlebotomy Training

Many schools offer monthly payment plans to make tuition more manageable.

At Montes HealthCare College, we provide payment plans to make your phlebotomy training in Gardena, CA affordable.

For exact tuition and financing details, contact our admissions team at (424) 373-8211 or visit our tuition and financing page.

Phlebotomy Technician Salary and Job Outlook

A career as a phlebotomy technician offers a strong combination of job stability, steady income, and advancement potential.

Phlebotomy Technician Salary Overview

Salaries vary by location, with some states offering significantly higher pay due to cost of living and healthcare demand:

*Median Salary: It’s a type of “middle value” used to describe income levels more accurately than the average, especially when there are a few extremely high or low salaries that could distort the average.

**Source: All Allied Health Schools

These figures show that California and New York remain among the top-paying states for certified phlebotomy technicians.

Phlebotomy Technician Job Outlook

Employment for phlebotomy technicians is projected to grow 6% from 2024 to 2034, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This continued growth highlights the essential role phlebotomists play in modern healthcare systems.

Reasons for strong demand include:

• An aging baby boomer population requiring more diagnostic tests and blood work
• A national push toward preventative healthcare and routine screenings
• Advancements in medical technology creating new laboratory testing methods
• A shortage of healthcare workers in many regions
• High turnover in entry-level healthcare positions creating ongoing job openings

With steady demand, quick training, and a clear path to certification, phlebotomy remains one of the most accessible and rewarding ways to start a healthcare career.

Is Phlebotomy Right for You?

Before enrolling in a phlebotomy training program, it’s important to know whether this fast-paced, patient-facing career matches your strengths and personality.

You Might Enjoy Phlebotomy If You:

• Want to work in healthcare without years of schooling
• Enjoy direct interaction with patients
• Feel comfortable around blood and needles
• Have strong attention to detail
• Stay calm under pressure
• Appreciate variety in your daily routine
• Prefer a stable career with job security
• Value work-life balance, as many positions offer regular daytime hours

Challenges of Phlebotomy Work

Like any healthcare role, phlebotomy comes with its own set of challenges. You may occasionally face:

• Anxious or uncooperative patients who fear needles
• Exposure to contagious illnesses (minimized with proper safety protocols)
• A risk of needlestick injuries (reduced with correct technique)
• Repetitive motions throughout the day
• Early morning shifts, especially in hospital settings
• Being on your feet for most of the day

Skills That Help Phlebotomists Succeed

To thrive as a certified phlebotomy technician, you’ll rely on a combination of technical skill and interpersonal ability:

• Steady hands and excellent hand-eye coordination
• Empathy and patience when working with nervous patients
• Clear communication and listening skills
• Ability to follow detailed protocols and safety procedures
• Strong organizational skills for labeling and tracking samples
• Physical stamina for standing and performing repetitive tasks
• Adaptability to work in different environments and teams

FAQ

Do I need a college degree to become a phlebotomy technician?

No. You only need a high school diploma or GED to enroll in phlebotomy training. Most programs take 1-6 months to complete, no college degree required.

Can I work as a phlebotomy technician without certification?

It depends on your state. California, Louisiana, Nevada, and Washington require certification and state licensure. Other states don’t legally require certification, but 93% of employers prefer or require it, making certification essential for employment.

What’s the difference between a phlebotomist and a phlebotomy technician?

The terms are used interchangeably. Both refer to healthcare professionals trained in blood collection. Some organizations use “phlebotomy technician” while others use “phlebotomist”. There’s no difference in job duties.

How many blood draws does a phlebotomist do per day?

It varies by work setting. Hospital phlebotomists may perform 15-30 draws per shift, while those in high-volume diagnostic labs might do 50-100 per day.

Is phlebotomy training hard?

Most students find phlebotomy training manageable with dedicated study. The hardest part is often overcoming nervousness when performing your first venipunctures on real patients. With practice, it becomes routine.

Can I take phlebotomy classes online?

Some programs offer hybrid formats with online classroom instruction, but hands-on clinical practice must be done in person. Fully online programs won’t qualify you for certification, as certifying organizations require documented venipuncture experience on real patients.

What’s the job market like for new phlebotomy technicians?

The job market is strong, with 6% projected growth through 2034. Certified phlebotomists typically find employment within 1-3 months of completing training, especially in urban areas with large hospital systems.

Can phlebotomy lead to other careers?

Yes. Many people use phlebotomy as a stepping stone to nursing, medical laboratory science, or other healthcare careers. The patient care experience and healthcare exposure are valuable for career advancement.

Begin Your Phlebotomy Training in Gardena, CA at Montes HealthCare College

Ready to begin your journey to becoming a certified phlebotomy technician? Montes HealthCare College offers a comprehensive 88-hour Phlebotomy Technician Program designed to prepare you for certification and career success.

Call our office at (424) 373-8211 or click HERE to reach us today. In addition to campus tours, we also offer students the opportunity to experience a real class before committing to a tuition payment schedule. Get in touch and attend one of our class sessions to see if our programs are right for you. No payment is necessary; simply contact us to request a pre-enrollment class audit.