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Are you fascinated by the world of healthcare and want to kickstart a meaningful career that’s hands-on, rewarding, and in high demand? Becoming a phlebotomist in California might be the perfect fit for you. Phlebotomists prepare, collect, and store blood and several other non-blood specimens like tissue, breath, and urine—a critical role in healthcare.
In California, there are three levels of phlebotomy certification, each with a different scope of practice. They are Limited Phlebotomy Technician (LPT), Certified Phlebotomy Technician I (CPT I), and Certified Phlebotomy Technician II (CPT II).
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about attaining your Certified Phlebotomy Technician I (CPT I) certificate. From the education requirements to state licensure, keep reading to see how you can start on your way to a rewarding career as a phlebotomist in California.
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1. Meet State & Program Requirements to Become a Phlebotomist in California
Before you can call yourself a phlebotomist in training, there are a few things the State of California and most phlebotomy training programs require. This ensures that you have the necessary foundational skills and qualifications to succeed in the field. They include attaining a high school diploma or equivalent, meeting age requirements, and passing a background check and drug test. Let’s break down the components of becoming a phlebotomist in California in greater detail.
Age: You Must Be at Least 18 Years of Age
To become a phlebotomist in California, you must be at least 18 years old. This is because the minimum age to work as a phlebotomy technician in a licensed healthcare facility in California is 18.
Education: Hold a High School Diploma, GED, or Equivalent
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) requires phlebotomy technicians to hold a high school diploma or an accepted equivalency (GED). Foreign diplomas must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency. If you do not currently meet the education requirements, we may be able to help you attain this for free through our partnerships with local schools. For more information, please call us to see how we can assist you.
Background Check & Drug Test
Most California phlebotomy training programs will require a background check and drug test. Felonies, certain misdemeanors, or a positive drug test will likely jeopardize your eligibility to be placed in an externship and/or to be certified/licensed as a phlebotomist in California. Please call us if you need clarification.
2. Complete an Approved Phlebotomy Program & Externship
Once you meet the requirements above, the next big step is enrolling in a phlebotomy training program.
To become a phlebotomist in California, you must attain training through a program approved by the California Department of Public Health and complete a clinical externship to achieve state licensure. Note: The CDPH approves all programs offered through CALRegional’s partner schools.
If you’re nervous about returning to school, you can feel at ease knowing that CALRegional phlebotomy students have a 91% passing rate, so you’re in good company!
California CALRegional phlebotomy students have a 91% passing rate!
What to Expect When Training to Become a Phlebotomist in California
Phlebotomy training programs prepare you with the knowledge and skills to perform blood draws safely and efficiently. Most programs include three components: lecture, lab, and externship. CALRegional’s programs are 100% in-person and include a guaranteed externship.
CALRegional’s Phlebotomy Technician Program includes the following:
- 70 hours of classroom instruction
- CPR training
- 40 to 100-hour externship
- National Exam
California CALRegional phlebotomy graduates have a 91% passing rate.
Beware of phlebotomy programs that do not guarantee externships, as it can result in you not attaining your license. Students sometimes have difficulty getting externships, and placement can take as long as 3 months. While this may be true for other programs, CALRegional guarantees your externship, so that you can become a phlebotomist in California as soon as possible.
Read our blog on phlebotomy training to learn more about what to expect while in phlebotomy school.
3. Pass the National Phlebotomy Certification Exam
Once you pass your phlebotomy class and externship and receive a certificate of completion from your training program, you’re ready to take the Phlebotomy Technician Certification (PTC) exam. CALRegional students take the exam through the American Medical Certification Association (AMCA) on the last day of class. This is arguably the most critical step to becoming a phlebotomist in California.
What’s Covered on the Exam?
The phlebotomist certification exam tests your knowledge and understanding of key concepts, principles, and practical applications related to phlebotomy. It evaluates your expertise and ensures you have the necessary skills to perform effectively as a phlebotomist in California. Here are some topics the exam will cover, for example:
- Professionalism and Regulatory Compliance
- Infection Control and Safety
- Patient Identification, Assessment, and Site Preparation
- Equipment Selection and Maintenance
- Collection of Blood and Non-Blood Specimens
- Specimen Processing and Transportation
Tips for Acing Your National Exam
For many students, sitting in a classroom and taking a test isn’t something they have done recently. The experience can be intimidating, but relax! You’re in the good hands of excellent instructors at CALRegional. In the meantime, here are some practical tips to help you nail your exam on the first try.
- Start Studying Early: Study a little bit each day before the test. Our instructors recommend one hour outside of the classroom per session.
- Create a Study Guide: Organize your thoughts and focus your studies with flashcards or key points. CALRegional also has ready-to-go study guides on Quizlet.
- Take Practice Tests: Get comfortable with the format of the test and identify any areas that need further review.
- Get Plenty of Rest: On the test day, get plenty of rest and eat breakfast to be well-fueled and focused.
- Skip Questions You Don’t Know: Don’t dwell on the questions that stump you. Come back to them later if you have time remaining at the end of the test.
4. Apply For State Licensure
Finally, once you’ve passed the national certification exam, the next step to becoming a phlebotomist in California is attaining your phlebotomy license.
California does this through the California Department of Public Health – Laboratory Field Services (CDPH-LFS). This license is essential to begin practicing as a licensed phlebotomist and ensures you meet the state’s standards for safety, proficiency, and professionalism in the field. Once you receive your certificate, you must renew it every two years to continue as a phlebotomist in California.
Documents You May Need for Your Application to Become a Phlebotomist in California
- Official transcript
- NACES or AICE evaluation
- Certificate of completion from an approved phlebotomy training program
- Verification of practical training experience (California Statement of Phlebotomy Practical Training)
- Verification of on-the-job experience (Letter of Phlebotomy Experience for California Certification)signed by the CLIA laboratory director
- Verification of national certification examination
Don’t worry–your instructor will walk you through the process, so you will be ready to apply after graduation and become a phlebotomist in California!
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5. Start Your Career in Phlebotomy
Once you’ve secured your Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT 1) certificate, congrats—you’re ready to begin your career as a phlebotomist in California! During your time at CALRegional, you’ll learn how to craft a professional resume and cover letter to stand out and make a great first impression. By the end of class, you should feel confident and inspired to land a job you’ll love.
Where You Can Work as a Phlebotomist in California
As a certified phlebotomist, you’ll play a critical role in patient care by collecting blood samples for diagnostic testing, transfusions, or research purposes. Here are some of the most common places phlebotomists work:
- Hospitals and healthcare systems: Working in fast-paced environments alongside nurses and doctors.
- Diagnostic laboratories: A primary setting for sample processing and testing.
- Blood donation centers: Helping facilitate life-saving blood donations.
- Research institutes: Supporting scientific breakthroughs through blood sample collection.
- Private medical clinics: Providing essential support to smaller healthcare teams.
Pro Tip: Phlebotomy can also be a gateway to other medical careers. Many phlebotomists in California go on to pursue nursing, medical assisting, or laboratory technology roles. Check out this blog to see California’s top 5 phlebotomy career paths.
Phlebotomist Job Outlook
The demand for skilled phlebotomists is booming, especially in states like California, where healthcare systems always need qualified professionals. Not only is demand high, but salaries are also competitive, making it a promising field for anyone entering the medical profession.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that phlebotomist jobs will increase faster than other occupations through 2033. Additionally, about 20,000 openings for phlebotomists are projected each year due to the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or retire.
Conclusion: Becoming a Phlebotomist in California is Within Reach!
California has one of the highest demands for phlebotomists in the United States, with competitive wages compared to other states (the average annual phlebotomist salary is $52,370). As the healthcare industry continues to expand, becoming a phlebotomist in California is a stable career choice.
While starting your phlebotomy career might seem like a lot, every step gets you closer to a fulfilling job in the medical field. Whether transitioning careers or entering the healthcare world for the first time, phlebotomy is an exciting way to make a meaningful difference.
If you want more information about CALRegional’s phlebotomy technician training program, sign up for an online info session. You’ll learn more about the program, including fees, requirements, class structure, and more. Sign up today and take your first step toward becoming a phlebotomist in California!