Earn Your Certification
Earning your NHCO certification is a clear, guided process from application to exam completion. Get the requirements, timelines, and resources you need to move forward with confidence.
Start Your Certification Journey
Navigate the certification process with clarity using our structured roadmap. From understanding eligibility requirements to submitting your application and preparing for exam day, each step is outlined to help you stay informed and on track.
Certification Basics
The NHCO certification process provides a clear, standardized path to validating healthcare knowledge. Meet eligibility requirements, pass the exam, and maintain credentials through renewal.
What Is Certification?
Certification confirms that a phlebotomy technician possesses the necessary knowledge to excel in the healthcare industry. By achieving certification, candidates demonstrate their competency in healthcare-specific skills and their commitment to consumer safety. For over 15 years, the NHCO has been dedicated to helping candidates achieve these important qualifications.
Why Get Certified?
Certification offers significant benefits to both employers and individuals. Employers value certification as it indicates an individual’s proficiency and comprehensive knowledge base. For individuals, earning a certification not only prepares them to assume professional roles and responsibilities, but also significantly increases employability by showcasing their high level of achievement.
What is a Certification Mark?
Certification marks are exclusive to individuals who have passed the national certification examination and maintain a valid certification issued by the NHCO. Certificants are encouraged to use this mark on their stationery, business cards, resumes, and other professional documents.
How Do I Apply?
The following steps must be taken to apply for the NHCO’s Phlebotomy Technician examination:
Eligibility Requirements
All individuals seeking to certify with the NHCO must meet specific eligibility requirements. These requirements help ensure candidates possess the necessary knowledge and skills to test. Before applying, candidates should make certain they meet these requirements as application fees are non-refundable.
Minimum Requirements
- All candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent, such as GED.
- All candidates must be proficient in speaking, reading, and writing the English language.
Training and Education Requirements
- Candidates must have completed training through a state- or federally-approved program within the last four years. Acceptable programs include, but are not limited to, those offered by post-secondary schools, colleges or universities, or United States Military programs.
Candidates wanting to verify if a training provider is approved should contact their state Board of Higher Education or Board of Private Post-Secondary Education to determine state or federal approval status.
- Candidates must provide a certificate of completion from their chosen phlebotomy training course and proof of at least 30 successful venipunctures and 10 capillary sticks on live individuals.
Fees
The non-refundable fee for the NHCO Phlebotomy Certification examination is $125.
Special Accomodations
The NHCO will consider requests for testing accommodations from candidates with a documented disability that might substantially limit the candidate’s capacity to read or otherwise complete the examination. Individuals requesting accommodations must complete the NHCO’s Accommodation Request in their candidate account before attempting the exam. A minimum of 7-10 business days is needed for approval, with the understanding that some cases may take longer.