How long does it take to become a Phlebotomist?
Phlebotomists are essential healthcare workers. They perform needed tests to help doctors diagnose and treat their patients. In this blog post, we'll explore how long it takes to become a phlebotomist and understand its time frame.
Article continues after recommendations
Recommended for you
MedCerts
Fully online Phlebotomy class
- Fully online, at your own schedule 24/7
- In-person externship matching done after class
STUDENT FAVORITE
Ultimate Health Care Solutions
In person Phlebotomy certification Classes
- Skill mastery in just 6 weeks with book included.
- Positive reviews on staff and instruction quality.
Anderson University, Indiana
Online Phlebotomy certification Classes
Anderson University in Indiana offers a comprehensive Phlebotomy certification program that prepares individuals for a rewarding career in healthcare. The program focuses on practical skills and theoretical knowledge, equipping students with the tools they need to excel in the field. Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training, students gain a deep understanding of phlebotomy techniques, medical terminology, infection control procedures, and patient communication skills. The program adheres to industry standards and provides ample opportunities for practical application through clinical rotations. With experienced faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a supportive learning environment, graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce as skilled and confident phlebotomists. This certification can also serve as a stepping stone for further career advancement in healthcare. Anderson University is committed to empowering individuals to make a positive impact in the healthcare industry.
$2,000 total
Collin College - Online
Online Phlebotomy certification Classes
Collin College's Health Professions curriculum provides you with the training and knowledge you need for a rewarding career as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA), Electrocardiography (EKG) Technician, Patient Care Technician (PCT), Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or Phlebotomy Technician (PHLEB). The five career tracks allow you to choose the specialization that best fits your career goals. Each track offers in-depth education with hands-on experience, thanks to experienced faculty that have worked in the healthcare field and valuable clinical partnerships with local hospitals, facilities, and clinics.
The variety of options in Health Professions also allows you to build your knowledge and skills as you progress through the different levels of educational awards. You can earn an Occupational Skills Award (OSA) and a Level 1 Certificates on your way to an Associate of Applied Science in Health Professions, providing you with the chance to work in your field of interest as you continue your education.
If your program requires a criminal background check, your placement in a required clinical site, cooperative, practicum, internship, and/or licensure/certification opportunity may be impacted. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your Program Director and check with your licensing/certifying entity, if any, to determine your status.
No cost info
What is phlebotomy?
Phlebotomy is the practice of drawing blood for medical testing, performing transfusions, or collecting blood donations. A phlebotomist collects blood samples from patients safely and effectively with the use of needles, syringes, and blood tubes.
How long is a phlebotomy course?
Phlebotomy training programs can take anywhere between 2 weeks to 6 months to complete. During the training, you will engage in at least 40 hours of classroom instruction.
Each state has varying hands-on experience requirements to complete. The average amount of hands-on experience needed is around 100 - 120 hours. You also need to do at least 30 successful skin punctures and 100 successful venipunctures.
-
Skin punctures are a type of blood draw that involves pricking the skin with a small needle, usually on the finger or heel. This is to collect a small amount of blood for testing.
-
Venipunctures involve inserting a needle into a vein, usually in the arm. This is to collect a larger amount of blood for testing or transfusion.
Trade schools, technical schools, and community colleges offer training programs in phlebotomy. You can also find online Phlebotomy classes
Phlebotomy training requirements
The specific requirements to enroll in a phlebotomy training program vary by school and program. Here are some common requirements for phlebotomy training:
-
High school diploma or equivalent: You may need a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum educational requirement.
-
Background check and drug screening: You also need to pass a background check and drug screening before enrollment.
-
Immunization records: You may need proof of immunizations. This can include Hepatitis B, Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR), and/or tuberculosis (TB) tests.
-
Basic computer skills: You may need to complete some coursework online during training. Basic computer skills could save you from a lot of distress.
It's necessary to check with the specific school or program you want to enroll in for their specific enrollment requirements.
How long does it take to become certified?
The short answer is that it varies. The timeframe for becoming a certified Phlebotomist depends on two different factors.
1. The two-part test: The certification exam consists of a written and practical part. The written part includes 100 multiple-choice questions with a passing score of at least 70%.
-
During the practical part, you need to perform venipunctures and skin punctures on real patients. This is under the supervision of a licensed or certified phlebotomist.
-
The written exam and the practical component take about 2 hours each to complete.
2. Waiting period: It may take two weeks to a few months before you can take the certification exam. The timeframe for receiving your certification also varies by certification agency. Some offer immediate online results. Others may take two weeks or longer to process and mail your certification.
It is always best to check the processing time of the certifying agency where you choose to take the test.
Article continues after recommendations
More recommendations for you
Northeastern Illinois University Bootcamps by Quickstart
Online Phlebotomy certification Classes
Our Phlebotomy Technician program has two simple goals: adapt to your everyday life and help you succeed. An externship is included with your Phlebotomy Technician program to get hands-on practice, gain valuable knowledge, and apply your training through exposure in the healthcare field. When you become eligible, our team will coordinate to secure all required documentation and work to connect you with one of our participating partner sites.
No cost info
U.S. Career Institute
Online Phlebotomy certification Classes
If you are looking for a secure career with a good, steady income, then there’s no need to look any further. U.S. Career Institute’s online Phlebotomy training school prepares you for an in-demand career in a hospital, blood donation center, doctor’s office and diagnostic laboratory. As the healthcare field continues to grow, so does the need for trained phlebotomists who provide skilled and sterile blood draws. Blood analysis and diagnoses will continue to be an essential function in hospitals and labs everywhere, keeping the demand for Phlebotomy Technicians high. You’ll play an important role in the healthcare field
$979 total
Marie's Allied Health & Technical Institute - Online
Phlebotomy Technician
- Hands-on training in blood specimen collection techniques.
- Comprehensive curriculum covering anatomy, and clinical procedures.
$750 to start
$1,500 total
Columbus State Community College
In person Phlebotomy certification Classes
The Phlebotomy certification program at Columbus State Community College is a comprehensive training program that equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills to draw and collect blood samples effectively. Students are exposed to hands-on training in laboratory settings and clinical externships with healthcare providers. The program offers a flexible schedule option to accommodate the needs of working professionals.
No cost info
Phlebotomy certification
Certification is not always a requirement, depending on the state you live in. It's a voluntary process that demonstrates knowledge and skill in a particular area. Getting a certification increases your chance of finding better jobs, keeping patients safe, and advancing your career.
The steps of taking your phlebotomy certification can vary depending on your state’s requirements and the certifying organization. In most cases, you’ll do the following:
-
Choose a certification organization and select the specific certification exam you want to take.
-
Meet the eligibility requirements. This may include completing an accredited phlebotomy training program or gaining a certain amount of work experience.
-
Register for the exam online or by mail, and pay the exam fee.
-
Schedule a testing appointment at a designated testing center.
-
Take the exam on the scheduled date and receive your exam results.
Here's a list of the nationally-recognized professional organizations:
-
National Association for Health Professionals (NAHP)
-
National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)
-
National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
-
American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT)
-
American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
-
American Medical Technologists (AMT)
-
American Certification Agency (ACA)
Phlebotomy license
Licensure is a legal requirement to practice in a certain field. Phlebotomy licensure agencies and requirements vary by state. Some states that need licensure for phlebotomists include California, Louisiana, Nevada, and Washington. If you're in one of these states, you may need a certification to get a license.
Below is the process for taking your licensure examination:
-
Check the licensure requirements for your state to determine if a licensure exam is required to practice as a phlebotomist.
-
Meet the eligibility requirements, which may include completing an accredited phlebotomy training program or gaining a certain amount of work experience.
-
Apply for a license with the appropriate state agency and pay any required fees.
-
Schedule a testing appointment at a designated testing center if a licensure exam is required.
-
Take the exam on the scheduled date and receive your exam results.
It's important to note that the specific steps and requirements for the licensure exam may vary depending on the organization and state in which you plan to practice as a phlebotomist.
Final Thoughts
Overall, it may take anywhere from 4 to 8 months to become a phlebotomist and up to a year with certifications and licensing. Start a rewarding career in healthcare and make an impact on the lives of others!
Fel is a student support representative who guides enrollees to the right program and answers their queries. She's committed to helping students and takes pride in her work. In her free time, she enjoys sightseeing and hanging out with loved ones.