How to Get a Phlebotomy Certification in Florida: 2026 Steps
Nov 26, 2025
Updated October 2026.
To get a phlebotomy certification in Florida, complete a phlebotomy training program, document hands-on blood draws, and pass a national exam such as the NHA CPT. Florida does not license phlebotomists, but most employers ask for a national certification. The NHA CPT exam costs $134 and has 100 scored questions, a 2-hour time limit, and a passing score of 390 out of 500.
To train in Orlando, see FHCA’s Phlebotomy program.
Earning your phlebotomy certification in 2026 opens the door to a stable and rewarding healthcare career. You gain hands-on skills that prepare you to collect blood samples, support patient care, and work in real clinical settings.
Our Phlebotomy program at FHCA Orlando offers focused, practical training tailored to current industry standards, giving you the preparation needed to meet certification requirements and start working in hospitals, clinics, and labs.
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Why phlebotomy certification matters for your healthcare career
Phlebotomy certification is more than a requirement; it’s proof that you’re ready to work safely, efficiently, and professionally. Employers prefer certified candidates because it confirms you’ve completed training and passed a national exam, often after fulfilling specific phlebotomist education requirements.
Certification can also open a broader range of job opportunities. As explained in the article on what can you do with a phlebotomy certification, your credential validates your clinical skills and prepares you for roles in hospitals, labs, plasma centers, and mobile units.
Steps to get phlebotomy certification in Orlando 2026
To earn your phlebotomy certification in Orlando, you must complete formal training, hands-on clinical practice, and pass a national exam. Each step prepares you for safe, effective blood collection and helps meet the hiring standards of Florida healthcare employers.
Check state certification requirements
Florida does not license phlebotomists: they are excluded from the state’s definition of clinical laboratory personnel (s. 483.803, Florida Statutes). Most employers still require national certification from agencies such as the NHA, AMCA, or NCCT. The ASCP and AMT also offer phlebotomy certifications. Each organization has different eligibility rules.
Make sure you meet the age and education requirements, usually a high school diploma or GED, before starting your training.
Enroll in a phlebotomy training program
At Florida Health Care Academy, our Phlebotomy program in Orlando provides structured instruction in anatomy, venipuncture, specimen labeling, infection control, and safety protocols. You’ll also learn proper documentation practices used across labs and hospitals.
As detailed in how to become a phlebotomist, starting with a strong education helps you feel confident and capable in real healthcare settings.
Complete hands-on clinical practice
Classroom instruction is important, but practical experience is where your skills are tested. At Florida Health Care Academy, you’ll complete clinical hours performing live blood draws under supervision, using the same tools and procedures found in real medical settings.
This direct exposure builds your confidence, sharpens your technique, and ensures you meet the clinical requirements for national certification. FHCA’s hands-on training is designed to prepare you for patient care from day one.
At Florida Health Care Academy, you´ll receive practical instruction, clinical practice, and expert guidance to pass certification exams and qualify for entry-level roles across the healthcare field.
Pass a recognized certification exam
After training, the next step is passing a national certification exam. These tests evaluate your knowledge of anatomy, safety, patient prep, and specimen handling.
Agencies like NHA (Certified Phlebotomy Technician), AMCA, and NCCT each offer different exam formats, but all require thorough preparation. The blog on phlebotomy tips offers useful advice on exam success and professional readiness.
Here is how the three main agencies compare:
| Agency and exam | Exam | Eligibility | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| NHA CPT | 100 scored and 20 pretest items, 2 hours | High school diploma or GED, plus a training program within the last 5 years or supervised work experience, and evidence of 30 venipunctures and 10 capillary sticks | $134 exam application |
| ASCP PBT | 80 questions, 2 hours | High school credential plus one route, such as a NAACLS-accredited program, a structured program with 40 classroom hours, or 1 year of full-time phlebotomy work | $155 application |
| AMT RPT | See AMT | An approved course (at least 120 didactic hours, within 4 years) or 1,040 hours of work within 3 years. Both need 50 venipunctures and 10 skin punctures. | Check AMT for the current fee |
Sources: NHA, ASCP and AMT certification pages. Fees and rules change, so confirm them with each agency before you apply.
Maintain your phlebotomy certification
Once certified, you’ll need to keep your credentials active. NHA certifications must be renewed every two years with 10 continuing education credits. Other agencies set their own renewal rules, so check yours.
Maintaining your certification shows your commitment to excellence and helps you stay competitive in the job market.
Why choose FHCA Orlando for your phlebotomy certification
At Florida Health Care Academy, you are supported throughout their certification journey. You receive in-depth training in blood collection, patient safety, and lab procedures, all guided by experienced instructors.
You also complete clinical hours in real medical settings, gaining the confidence and qualifications needed to pass your exam and begin working. The article on phlebotomy technician outlines how FHCA training aligns with real job expectations, helping you succeed from day one.
Phlebotomy certification in Orlando 2026 FAQs
This section answers frequently common questions about certification timelines, costs, and requirements to help you plan your next step.
How long does it take to get phlebotomy certification?
The time depends on your program. FHCA’s Phlebotomy program takes 6 weeks, with a Saturday option, and then you schedule the NHA CPT exam. The exam itself lasts 2 hours.
Do I need a high school diploma to start training?
Yes, a high school diploma or GED is required by most programs and national certifying agencies.
Can I work without phlebotomy certification?
Some facilities may hire trainees, but most employers in Florida require national certification. Being certified improves your chances of being hired and increases your earning potential.
How much does phlebotomy certification cost?
The NHA CPT exam application costs $134 and the ASCP PBT application costs $155. Training tuition is separate, and NHA certifications renew every two years with 10 continuing education credits.
Can you get phlebotomy certified online?
You can take the NHA exam through live remote proctoring, but eligibility still requires evidence of 30 venipunctures and 10 capillary sticks on live individuals, so the hands-on training cannot be fully online.
How do I enroll in the FHCA phlebotomy program?
Enrollment is simple. FHCA provides a streamlined process to help you begin training and prepare for certification.
Start your phlebotomy certification journey with FHCA Orlando
Florida Health Care Academy helps you move from training to employment with confidence. Our Phlebotomy program in Orlando gives you everything you need to prepare for certification and start working in the medical field.
Take the next step in your career through Enrollment and start building a future in healthcare today.
