In general, you can become a phlebotomist by completing a phlebotomy training program that is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences or a similar accrediting organization.
A college degree is not required to become a phlebotomist. In fact, some employers may accept you for a phlebotomist position with a high school diploma and on-the-job training.
Still, some states require that you earn state licensure or a phlebotomy certification to legally perform phlebotomy duties.
How to Become a Phlebotomist
Read on to learn step by step how to become a phlebotomist.
Complete a Phlebotomy Training Program
You can search for phlebotomy training programs in your state on the NAACLS website. Phlebotomy training programs are offered through community colleges and technical or vocational schools.
Phlebotomy training programs cover training in caring for patients and laboratory equipment and drawing and preparing blood samples.
Admission Requirements for Phlebotomy Training Programs
Requirements may slightly vary for acceptance in a phlebotomy program depending on who the phlebotomy program is offered through.
Requirements typically consist of being 18 years old with a high school diploma or a passing score on the general educational development test, passing a criminal background check, and passing a drug screen.
Earn a Phlebotomy Certification
There are a few states that require you to earn a phlebotomy certification to legally practice as a phlebotomist and in general, many employers prefer to hire a phlebotomist with a certification.
Learn more about the states that require a phlebotomy certification below and consider earning your certification in phlebotomy to enhance your qualifications.
States That Require Certification or Licensure
There are currently four states that require certification or licensure to become a phlebotomist.
California
You must be certified by the state of California to become a phlebotomist. Gain your certification by passing a certifying organization examination approved by the California Department of Public Health.
California offers three phlebotomy certification levels including a limited phlebotomy technician, a certified phlebotomy technician I, or a certification phlebotomy technician 2.
Louisiana
Louisiana is one of the states in America that require you to obtain certification and licensure to practice as a phlebotomist.
Gain state licensure in Louisiana by successfully completing an approved national exam. There are several approved examinations listed on the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners website.
Nevada
If you are interested in becoming a phlebotomist in Nevada, you will have to obtain a medical lab personnel licensure and a phlebotomy certification to legally practice.
Learn more about becoming a phlebotomist in Nevada on the official state of Nevada website.
Washington
The state of Washington requires you to earn a certification as a medical assistant phlebotomist for legal practice in Washington.
You can apply for certification by submitting an application that demonstrates you have gained the appropriate training to perform phlebotomy responsibilities.
Recognized Certification Bodies for Phlebotomy
If your state requires that you obtain state licensure or a certification in phlebotomy to become a phlebotomist, earn your certification through a state approved certifying body.
There are many nationally recognized certification organizations that provide certifications in phlebotomy.
Examples of certification organizations include:
- American society for clinical pathology
- national phlebotomy association
- national center for competency testing
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Phlebotomist
See answers to commonly asked questions about becoming a Phlebotomist below.
Do I Have to Earn a College Degree to Become a Phlebotomist?
No, you do not need to earn a college degree to become a phlebotomist. You can become a phlebotomist through on-the-job training or a formal training program.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Phlebotomist?
You can become a phlebotomist in four months to one year depending on state requirements and your personal interests and career goals.
Can I Complete Training Requirements to Become a Phlebotomist Online?
You will not be able to complete training requirements to become a phlebotomist online. In-person training is necessary for instruction and to build your confidence in drawing blood safely and correctly.
Training requirements usually consists of classroom lessons and internships that provide you with the necessary experience in a supervised setting.
Are There Career Advancement Opportunities for Phlebotomists?
There are career advancement opportunities for phlebotomists. Advance your career with a phlebotomy specialty such as a registered phlebotomy specialist or donor phlebotomy technician.
You might also want to explore managerial positions or transition to a registered nurse or medical laboratory technician. Advancement opportunities typically include more training and certifications.
Should I Become a Phlebotomist?
Yes, you should become a phlebotomist if you have an interest in the medical field and directly taking care of patients.
According to the Bureau Labor of Statistics, employment for phlebotomists is expected to grow in the next ten years.
Start Training to Become a Phlebotomist Today
If you are interested in becoming a phlebotomist, review your state’s requirements and start a training program through a community college or vocational school today or explore on-the-job training opportunities.
