Certified Phlebotomy Certification (CPT) by NHA
NHA PHLEBOTOMY CERTIFICATION AND EXAM
Name of the exam: The National Phlebotomy Association Certification Examination
Organization offering the exam: National Phlebotomy Association (NPA)
Information about the CPT exam:
The National Phlebotomy Association was founded in 1978 to establish a professional standard and code of ethics for phlebotomists. Since its creation, the NPA has been committed to excellence in developing educational curricula, providing accreditation, offering continuing education programs, researching phlebotomy issues, and promoting professional and public awareness. In 1981, the first NPA Certification Exam was administered at the University of California, San Francisco, after the NPA established a national-level curriculum for phlebotomy education.
Length of test (time): 2 hours, in-person
Cost to take the test: $170
Information that is covered on the exam:
Multi-faceted exam including, but not limited to covering; infection control, collection procedures, and specimen handling and transportation.
What Is the Format of the NHA CPT Exam?
The NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions, including both scored and unscored items used for future exam development. Candidates are given two hours (120 minutes) to complete the exam.
The exam evaluates knowledge across several competency areas, including patient care, infection control, safety procedures, blood collection techniques, and professional responsibilities.
Eligibility to sit for the exam:
Attendance in an accredited program meeting NPA curriculum requirements offering 160 contact hours of lecture time and/or 16.0 CEU. The candidate must also have at least 200 hours in practical experience, whether that be with mannequins, clinical time, or a combination of the two. Applicants must submit an application packet containing transcripts and a copy of their program to the NPA before they can be scheduled for an exam. Paperwork must be submitted at least 30 days prior to an exam.
Clinical Requirements for NHA CPT Certification
Before sitting for the NHA CPT exam, candidates must demonstrate hands-on clinical experience. NHA requires documentation showing successful completion of:
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30 venipunctures
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10 capillary or finger-stick collections
All procedures must be performed on live individuals and verified according to NHA requirements. These clinical experiences help ensure candidates have practical blood collection skills in addition to theoretical knowledge.
Where Can You Take the NHA CPT Exam?
NHA offers several testing options for Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) candidates:
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Through an accredited training program or school
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At an authorized PSI testing center
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Through live remote online proctoring, where available
Testing availability may vary depending on your location and educational program. Candidates should verify current testing options through the NHA Candidate Portal before scheduling an exam.
NHA Phlebotomy Certification Renewal Information:
To earn the Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) credential through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), candidates must achieve a scaled score of at least 390 out of 500. NHA uses scaled scoring to ensure consistency across different versions of the exam. Candidates who do not achieve a passing score may retake the exam according to NHA's retesting policies.
Renewal information:
Annual renewal for $100 through the NPA member portal. To reinstate certification if lapsed by 90 or more days, the cost is $215.
Prepare for the NHA CPT Exam with Confidence
Earning your NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) credential can open the door to new career opportunities in hospitals, laboratories, physician offices, and other healthcare settings. While the certification process requires meeting eligibility requirements and passing a comprehensive exam, the right preparation can help you approach test day with confidence.
At PhlebCE, we're committed to helping aspiring phlebotomists succeed. Our study resources, practice exams, and exam preparation tools are designed to help you strengthen your knowledge, identify areas for improvement, and become familiar with the format and content of the NHA CPT exam.
Whether you're just beginning your phlebotomy journey or preparing for an upcoming exam date, PhlebCE can help you take the next step toward certification. Get started today!
NPA Application Handbook:
https://www.nationalphlebotomy.org/resource/1563465234000/Application_Handbook
Resources
- National Phlebotomy Association
https://www.nationalphlebotomy.org/ - Phlebotomy Training (For state by state requirements)
https://www.phlebotomytraining.org/
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How hard is the NHA CPT exam?
The NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) exam is considered moderately challenging because it tests both theoretical knowledge and practical phlebotomy concepts. Candidates must demonstrate competency in patient preparation, blood collection procedures, safety protocols, specimen processing, and compliance standards. Most students who complete an accredited training program and spend time reviewing practice exams are well prepared to pass the exam.
How many times can you take the NHA CPT exam?
If you do not pass the NHA CPT exam on your first attempt, you may retake it after a 30-day waiting period. Candidates can take the exam up to three times before being required to wait one year before attempting the exam again. Each retake requires a new registration and payment of the exam fee.
How long does NHA CPT certification last?
NHA CPT certification is valid for two years. To maintain certification, phlebotomy technicians must complete continuing education requirements and submit their renewal before the certification expiration date. Candidates who allow their certification to expire may be required to complete additional continuing education credits, pay reinstatement fees, or retake the exam depending on how long the certification has been inactive.
Can you take the NHA CPT exam online?
Yes. The NHA CPT exam can be taken through live remote proctoring, allowing eligible candidates to complete the exam online from a private location that meets testing requirements. Candidates may also choose to test at a PSI testing center or through their training program when available.
What happens if you fail the NHA CPT exam?
If you fail the NHA CPT exam, you will receive a score report showing your overall performance and areas where additional study may be needed. Candidates may retake the exam after a 30-day waiting period. Many students use their score report to focus their preparation efforts before attempting the exam again.