Phlebotomy Technicians play a key role in the medical field. Their main responsibility is to collect samples of a patient’s blood or other bodily fluids for the purpose of lab test to determine varying health conditions. Here we will outline the entire process of becoming a Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT).
The first step to your career as a Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) is to attend a training course. East Harlem, New York is home to many state approved phlebotomy training programs that will prepare students for a Phlebotomy Technician career. A phlebotomy training program is generally compiled of 40-80 in class hours and 20-40 clinical hours that will take place of the class, usually at a laboratory or medical institute united with the program. In East Harlem, the typical class will have 10-30 students.
When choosing a phlebotomy training program, it’s important to be thorough and well-prepared. There are thousands of programs across the country, but not every one of them provide the essential training and hands-on components needed to enter the workforce. In fact, some programs lack clinical hours, which are fundamental for gaining practical experience drawing blood in a clinical lab setting. Without clinical hours, you will not meet the minimum requirements for national certification — even if you graduate from the course.
One of the most essential factors to consider when comparing a program is its accreditation and adherence to professional standards. Program accreditation is formal recognition granted to schools or programs that meet established national standards of education, hands-on training, and educational rigor. In phlebotomy, attending an approved training program ensures that you receive appropriate education and clinical experience aligned with healthcare industry standards.
After completing a phlebotomy training program, you will receive a certificate of completion, which is often confused. This document does not make you a certified phlebotomist. It simply proves that you’ve completed training and allows you to take the national certification exam — especially important for those with limited experience.
To officially become certified, students must pass an exam from a recognized agency such as National Performance Specialists (NPS). NPS helps establish national standards, develops the certification exams, and maintains a registry of certified professionals.
Certification must be renewed every two years, and completing continuing education is a core requirement for renewal if the a certification holder does not wish to take an additional exam. This ensures that certified phlebotomists remain in compliance with the latest regulations, advancements, and guidelines. Most certifying agencies provide straightforward guidelines on the amount and type of continuing education hours required, making it simple for professionals to maintain their credentials.
If you are planning to attend a phlebotomy training program and would like an NPS adviser to double check that the program is legit, contact us today.
Upon gainful completion of a phlebotomy training class, you will have a Certificate of Completion. Your Certificate of Completion does not make you ‘Certified’. This is a completely common misunderstanding. A Certificate of Completion is used as proof of successful completion of a phlebotomy training course and is required to register for the national certification test for individuals possessing no experience in the field.
To become certified, a phlebotomist must have their knowledge put to the test by a third-party credentialing agency, like NPS. Once certified, a phlebotomist must maintain their certification each two years by completing Continuing Education. Continuing education can come in multiple formats, such as on-the-job workshops, online courses, webinars, or specialized training modules. These programs often cover the latest best practices, safety protocols, and technological advancements in phlebotomy. Many professional organizations and certification agencies provide regularly updated continuing education resources to help phlebotomists expand and develop their skills.
There are a variety of certification agencies that phlebotomists can choose to become certified with, but selecting the most recognized one can make a big difference in your career.
Pursuing phlebotomy certification not only shows your competency and commitment to quality care, but also supports ongoing professional development. By regularly participating in continuing education and professional growth opportunities, phlebotomists can sharpen their capabilities, expand their professional network, and position themselves for advancement within the healthcare field.
Many healthcare employers require certified candidates, making certification an important step toward becoming a strong applicant in the field.
The cost to become NPS Certified is $200.00 and includes a comprehensive study guide, unlimited practice exams, three final certification exam attempts, a professional resume revision, and job placement assistance. The entire process can be completed fully online through the NPS learning management system, and is mobile friendly, allowing you to prepare on your schedule and from the ease of home. Be sure to check whether your certifying agency provides complimentary materials or if there are extra fees for premium materials.
Click to learn more about becoming a Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT).
Once you have registered to sit for the credentialing exam, take advantage of a wide range of exam preparation materials to maximize your readiness. Many credentialing agencies offer resources such as thorough study guides, digital flashcards, practice questions, and interactive review platforms. When evaluating prep tools, look for materials that reflect the exam’s content outline and focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Consider developing a study schedule that incorporates regular studying, targeted practice in weaker areas, and regular use of full-length practice exams to replicate the real test environment. This approach will help boost your confidence and ensure you’re thoroughly prepared for exam day.
In addition, practice exams are extremely useful for mirroring the real test environment and identifying areas where you need further review. Some agencies, like NPS, offer unlimited practice exams, while others charge extra for practice attempts.
After you have passed the certification exam, your credentials are rapidly inputted in the national registry and a digital copy of your national certification is made available in your account. Your digital copy, along with your NPS transcripts, should be downloaded and printed for use as proof of certification.
Now that you’re a Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT), you’re ready to start your medical career in East Harlem, New York. The field of phlebotomy is an excellent entry point into the medical industry, commonly pursued by aspiring nurses, nurse aides, medical assistants, and medical laboratory technicians. Certified phlebotomists are in strong demand across the healthcare industry due to the growth of healthcare services, a growing elderly population, and a rise in lab testing. This rising demand contributes to a positive employment outlook, making phlebotomy a reliable and worthwhile career choice.
Phlebotomists typically work a standard 40-hour week and earn an average annual salary of approximately $31,000, though wages can vary depending on region and experience. With increasing prospects and a relatively short training period, phlebotomy is a great way to begin a meaningful healthcare career.
NPS works with multiple staffing agencies to help our members find a career in the phlebotomy field. Click here for more information on job placement assistance by NPS.
Certified Phlebotomy Technicians will have to renew their CPT Certification every two years. A phlebotomist should start the process at least 30 days prior to the week their credentials expires. This will permit the phlebotomist ample time to complete their continuing education hours and submit their renewal assessment. You will not have to go back to a training program or attend a class to renew your certification.
The renewal process can be completed entirely online in the NPS learning management system. The cost to renew your credentials for the following two year is $200.00. Renewing ensures your employer that you are dedicated to updating your knowledge in the phlebotomy field.
If your certification lapses, many certifying agencies offer reinstatement options. The process typically involves finishing any outstanding continuing education requirements, filing a renewal application, and covering a reinstatement fee. It’s important to check with your certifying body for specific procedures and timeframes to restore your active status.
Click to learn more about Renewing You CPT Certification.
A Certified Phlebotomy Instructor (CPI) is a highly intelligent phlebotomist with over 5 years of experience in the field. Phlebotomy Instructors can work for or own their own school. They’re responsible for ensuring that students in their class are retaining the information provided by their curriculum. Every class in East Harlem, New York should tell their students details about the instructors background and credentials.
If a phlebotomist meets the requirements and wishes to become a Certified Phlebotomy Instructor (CPI) they can undergo the entire process online. If you would prefer to speak with someone regarding the process, contact us today.
Click to learn more about becoming a Certified Phlebotomy Instructor (CPI).
National Performance Specialists is also partnered with the American Red Cross to provide job placement assistance to NPS Members and to assist the American Red Cross in recruiting quality candidates across the United States.
All NPS certification programs are proudly listed within the Certification Finder by CareerOneStop. CareerOneStop is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration and is a proud partner of the AmericanJobCenter network.
