As PhlebotomyU students first began their education to pursue a career in phlebotomy, they often experienced confusion when distinguishing the differences between their two future work certificates: the NCCT Phlebotomy Technician Certification and California CPT I License. One of the most common questions asked by PhlebotomyU students is why they need both a national certification and state license to practice in California. While most states do not require dual licensure, California is one of the few that have additional requirements to become a phlebotomist.
Applying for NCCT Phlebotomy Technician Certification and Where It Is Valid
The National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) is an independent credentialing organization that has tested healthcare professionals and instructors throughout the United States since 1989. They administer the NCCT Phlebotomy Technician Certification, which is a national certification for use across all states that does not require licensing for phlebotomists. Some states, such as California, may set additional guidelines to become a phlebotomist alongside the NCCT certification.
In order to receive the NCCT certification, there are specific requirements that people must fulfill. The NCCT requirements include:
- Obtaining a certificate of completion from a phlebotomy training program
- A signed practical training form from the student’s externship site
- A high school diploma or GED equivalent
- Receiving at least a 70% score on the NCCT Phlebotomy Technician exam
The PhlebotomyU phlebotomy certification course prepares students for the NCCT exam and equips them with the practical skills required for a 40-120 hour externship. Each of our students will obtain the necessary documents with instructions for applying for the NCCT Phlebotomy Technician Certification online from school administrators. Additionally, they will gain over 80 hours of practical and didactic training, as well as preparation for the NCCT exam.
Applying for California CPT I License and Where It Is Valid
The California CPT I License is provided by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). This license is required to work as a phlebotomist in the state of California. Unlike the NCCT, it is not valid to use when outside the state of California.
Similar to the NCCT Phlebotomy Technician Certification, the California CPT I License has prerequisites. Proof of passing a national certification exam from a CDPH approved certifying organization is required to apply for this license, such as the NCCT certification that PhlebotomyU graduates earn upon completion of the course and successfully passing the NCCT exam. Additionally, the CDPH requires that aspiring phlebotomists submit sealed official transcripts from a high school or GED level education to approve them for the CPT I License.
PhlebotomyU administrators will work with each student to ensure they have received the required documents with instructions for applying for the California CPT I License online. When filing for this licensure, remember that the CPT I application can be submitted after the $100 fee is charged and once the CDPH acquires the NCCT Phlebotomy Technician Certification.
Certification and License Renewal
The NCCT Phlebotomy Technician Certification qualifies for renewal every year to maintain certification and practice. The California CPT I License, however, needs to be renewed every two years.
The California Department of Public Health will issue CPT I renewal notices 75 days prior to its expiration. These notices will be sent through email and mail, so it is critical to keep your contact information updated. To avoid delays in this process, the CPT I license renewal paperwork must be submitted 30 days prior to the expiration date. If the CPT I renewal paperwork is submitted any later, you cannot practice phlebotomy until the renewed license arrives. Also, anticipate a renewal fee for this process. In California, the CPT I costs $100 for renewal.
The renewal of the NCCT Phlebotomy Technician Certification is not a requirement for renewing a California CPT I License once you have obtained the license, as long as the California CPT I License supersedes it. Most PhlebotomyU students, however, choose to keep both the NCCT Certification and California CPT I License current, in the event that they have to move out of the state, where the NCCT certification would once again be required. If you are moving or are planning to do so, look to see if that state has additional phlebotomy requirements, such as other training or filing extra paperwork.
Getting the Best Phlebotomy Education
At PhlebotomyU, we care about the success of our students. In our Certified Phlebotomy Technician I (CPT I) course, we provide students a high-quality education with 40-120 hours of experience for under $3,000. Located in San Diego, we help students gain practical experience, pass the NCCT exam, and get the CPT I license.
If you have any additional questions regarding the NCCT Phlebotomy Technician Certification and California CPT I License, contact PhlebotomyU today.
