Allied Technicial Institute

Becoming Certified as a phlebotomist in California
Medical professions such as Phlebotomist are very much in demand right now. One medical career many people may choose to pursue is that of a phlebotomist, which is the technician that draws blood samples from patients. The process for becoming a phlebotomist varies from state to state, so it’s important that you understand what it entails in your state. The following steps are required in order to begin practicing phlebotomy in California.

First, you must receive a high school diploma or GED. You will need proof of this when applying to become a phlebotomist in California. The certificate itself serves as your proof of completion, but transcripts will need to be sent in directly from your high school, not from you.

Next, you have to complete phlebotomy training at a state-approved school or training facility. A minimum of 40 hours of classroom instruction is required. Upon completion of this training program, you will receive a certificate which serves as your proof of completion.

You will also need to pass an exam that is administered by a certification institution. This institution must not only be nationally recognized, but also approved by the California Department of Health Services.

Proof of clinical training and experience is also required with your phlebotomist application. You are required to have a minimum of 40 hours of clinical experience, including at least 50 venipuncture and 10 skin puncture blood draws on real patients while under a trainer’s supervision.

Once you have completed all your education, exam, and training requirements, you may apply for your phlebotomy license. Along with the application, you must submit proof that you meet all the minimum qualifications, which means copies of your education certificate, exam, and letter attesting to blood draw experience, 2 passport sized photos, and a $54 application fee in check or money order form only. All documents must be submitted by mail, and applications may take up to 60 days to process.

After you successfully obtain your California phlebotomy license, you will be required to take ongoing classes to keep your license. A California phlebotomy license is good for 2 years, and each time you renew, you must submit proof of no less than 6 hours of continuing education that you’ve completed over the previous 2 years. No additional exams are required to renew your phlebotomy license.