How to Become a Certified Medication Aide in Virginia (2026)
If you are looking for a direct path to a stable healthcare career in Virginia that allows you to take on more responsibility than a standard aide, becoming a Registered Medication Aide (RMA) is an excellent choice. With the state's growing need for assisted living support, there is a high demand for skilled professionals to manage medication administration. In Virginia, Nursing Assistants, the role RMA training builds upon, earn an average wage of about $19.31 per hour. This guide provides the definitive process for navigating Virginia's specific Board of Nursing requirements to launch your career
Step 4: Pass the Virginia Medication Aide Exam
After the Board approves your application, you must register for and pass the state competency exam. The exam is administered by the state's official vendor, PSI Services LLC. You will pay a separate exam fee directly to PSI. A passing score of 70% is required.
Step 5: Receive Your Registration and Find a Job
Once you pass the exam, PSI will transmit the results to the Board of Nursing. The Board typically processes complete applications and mails your official registration within 7-10 business days. You are now legally permitted to work as an RMA in Virginia.
Update your resume to highlight your new "RMA" status and direct care experience. Search for "Medication Aide" or "Med Tech" positions at assisted living communities like Sunrise Senior Living, Brookdale, or local independent facilities. You can explore the skills employers look for on MyNextMove.org.
Career Paths and Opportunities
Becoming a Registered Medication Aide can be a starting point for a long-term healthcare career. Many RMAs advance into higher-paying roles, such as:
- Advanced Registered Medication Aide: Virginia has created a new "advanced RMA" category, which will allow for an expanded scope of practice. The Board of Nursing is currently defining the additional training requirements for this role.
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): If you aren't already a CNA, this is a natural next step to broaden your patient care skills.
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): With additional education, you can advance into a licensed nursing role with more responsibility and higher pay.
- Pharmacy Technician: Transition into the pharmaceutical side of healthcare by helping prepare and dispense medications in a pharmacy setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have to be a CNA to be a med tech in Virginia?
No, you do not have to be a CNA. However, you must have completed a 40-hour Direct Care Staff training course or a PCA course if you are not a CNA. Being a CNA is the most common pathway, but it is not the only one.
How long does it take to become a med tech in Virginia?
The specific Medication Aide training program takes 68 hours to complete. This can typically be finished in 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the school's schedule.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a Registered Medication Aide in Virginia is a fast and direct way to enter the healthcare field and make a real difference in patient care. With flexible training programs, strong job demand, and clear opportunities for career advancement, this role is an excellent starting point for a rewarding career.
Explore your options today with Dreambound and take the first step toward an exciting career in healthcare.
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Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.
