There are several organizations that offer phlebotomy certifications via examination, and each has its own eligibility requirements. Most certification organizations require that you fulfill the following:

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• Hold a high school diploma or GED

• Completion of a phlebotomy training program within the last 2-5 years that fulfills certain requirements (minimum number of classroom training and clinical lab hours, etc.)

• Some professional / military work experience in the field may be required (usually 6 months to one year)

• A minimum number of venipunctures and skin punctures performed on human subjects

• Reciprocity from another certifying agency

• Payment of the examination fee (anywhere from $90 to $150)

 

There may be specific eligibility requirements for several distinct phlebotomist groups. For example, the National Center for Competency Testing breaks out their certification eligibility requirements and pricing by the following:

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• Current Students / Graduates – This category includes students enrolled in an approved phlebotomy training program, or those who have graduated from a program within the last 5 years.

• Experienced Technicians – This refers to those who can verify one year of full-time experience as a phlebotomy practitioner within the last 5 years.

• Military – This includes all who have completed phlebotomy training during U.S. military service within the last 5 years, or military members (or spouses) who can verify one year of full-time experience as a phlebotomy practitioner within the last 5 years.

 

It's important to review all the eligibility requirements of the organization you choose to become certified by, as they can vary.