Phlebotomy Certification Pathways
Completing A Step Above Medical's Phlebotomy Training Course, receiving your Certificate of Completion, earning national certification, and meeting any state licensing requirements are four separate steps. Here is how they fit together, and how the NHA and NPCT certification pathways compare.
Four Separate Steps
Completing your training, receiving a Certificate of Completion, earning national certification, and meeting any state licensing or credentialing requirements are four separate steps. Understanding how they fit together helps you plan your path after class.
1. Completing the Phlebotomy Training Course
You complete two days of hands-on, instructor-guided training and supervised live venipuncture practice at A Step Above Medical.
2. Your A Step Above Medical Certificate of Completion
Upon successfully completing the course, you receive an A Step Above Medical Certificate of Completion documenting your training. This certificate is separate from national certification and any applicable state credential, and does not by itself authorize you to draw blood professionally.
3. National certification: NHA or NPCT
After completing the course, you may pursue national phlebotomy certification through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or the National Phlebotomy Certification Testing Center (NPCT). NHA and NPCT are independent certifying organizations with different examination formats and preparation expectations.
NPCT pathway
The NPCT exam is an online national certification examination consisting of 25 multiple-choice questions. A score of 70 percent is required to pass, and students may make multiple attempts. The exam closely reflects the foundational phlebotomy material covered during the course, and many of our students choose to complete it shortly after training.
NHA pathway
The NHA exam is a longer, more comprehensive national certification examination that covers additional knowledge areas beyond the hands-on skills practiced during class. Students choosing the NHA pathway should plan for additional study time before testing.
A Step Above Medical is happy to support students choosing the NHA pathway with additional study resources, including practice questions, practice exams, and answer rationales.
4. State licensing and credentialing
Completing the A Step Above Medical Phlebotomy Training Course and earning national certification are separate steps from any state licensing or credentialing process. National certification is awarded by the certifying organization after you successfully meet its requirements and pass the applicable exam. Certification, licensing, and employment requirements vary by state and employer. Please review the information provided for your state before registering.
Not sure which certification pathway fits your goals? Our instructors can explain the differences and help you understand your options.