Key Points

• What is a Phlebotomist?
  Healthcare worker who draws blood for tests or donation.
• Cost in San Bernardino/Riverside:
  $1,200–$1,800 total program cost.
• Training length:
  4–8 weeks, with accelerated options.
• Salary in San Bernardino/Riverside:
  $53,230 per year (BLS).
• Employment settings:
  Hospitals, clinics, labs, and blood banks are actively hiring.

What is a Phlebotomist?

A phlebotomist is a certified healthcare professional who:

• Draws blood using venipuncture or capillary collection.
• Labels and processes blood samples for testing.
• Keeps patients comfortable and safe during the procedure.
• Supports doctors with fast, accurate specimen collection.

Requirements in San Bernardino/Riverside

To become a phlebotomist in California, you must:

• Be 18+ with a high school diploma or GED.
• Complete a state-approved phlebotomy training program.
• Pass a national certification exam (NHA, NCCT, ASPT).
• Apply for your California CPT license via the CDPH.

Fastest Way to Become a Phlebotomist in San Bernardino/Riverside

• Accelerated programs: As short as 4–6 weeks.
• Complete in-person labs and a clinical externship.
• Prepare for the national certification exam and job placement.

Ready to start? Compare phlebotomy classes near you with Dreambound and enroll today.

Phlebotomy Classes in San Bernardino/Riverside

San Bernardino Valley College

• Length: 6 weeks
• Cost: $1,500
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED
• Summary: State-approved program with lab, classroom, and externship. Meets CA certification standards.

Riverside City College

• Length: 8 weeks
• Cost: $1,800
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED
• Summary: Capillary and venipuncture training plus clinical externship for certification.

Chaffey College

• Length: 4 weeks
• Cost: $1,200
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED
• Summary: Focuses on certification and rapid job entry. Includes classroom and hands-on training.

Online & Hybrid Classes in San Bernardino/Riverside

• Hybrid programs: Combine online theory modules with in-person labs and externships.
• Note: Fully online phlebotomy certification is not accepted in California. Hands-on practice is required by law.
• Find hybrid phlebotomy programs near you.

Free Classes & Financial Aid in San Bernardino/Riverside

• No fully free phlebotomy programs available locally.
• Financial aid options:
  • Apply for FAFSA and state grants
  • Workforce training programs may cover tuition
  • Employer tuition sponsorship is available for some new hires

Certification Process

1. Complete a California-approved phlebotomy training program.
2. Pass a national exam (NHA, NCCT, ASPT).
3. Apply for your Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) license via the CDPH.
4. Maintain your license with continuing education.

Find phlebotomy jobs at MyNextMove

Where Do Phlebotomists Work? (Job Environment)

Phlebotomists in San Bernardino and Riverside work at:

• Hospitals (Loma Linda, Kaiser Permanente, Riverside Community Hospital)
• Diagnostic labs and blood banks
• Outpatient clinics and urgent care centers

Most jobs include shift work, including evenings and weekends.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is phlebotomy training in San Bernardino/Riverside?
Most programs take 4–8 weeks to complete.

How much do phlebotomists earn in San Bernardino/Riverside?
$53,230 per year (BLS).

Can I take phlebotomy classes online in California?
Hybrid classes are allowed, but fully online certification is not valid in CA.

What are the requirements to become a phlebotomist in California?
Be 18+, have a high school diploma/GED, and complete a state-approved program.

Is financial aid available for phlebotomy classes?
Many programs offer FAFSA, grants, or employer sponsorship.

Final Thoughts

Phlebotomy is one of the fastest and most affordable paths into healthcare.

Search and enroll in phlebotomy classes near you with Dreambound and start your career in as little as 4 weeks.

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