California Phlebotomy License 2025: The CPT 1 Application Guide

Smiling phlebotomist in scrubs holding a CPT 1 certificate and blood collection tube in a California hospital lab

This guide explains how to earn the California CPT I phlebotomy credential in 2025 and land your first entry‑level jobs. You’ll get a step‑by‑step application checklist, training and exam options, documentation and background‑check requirements, plus job search, salary expectations and state vs national certification differences.

Why CPT I Matters for California Phlebotomists

If you’re planning a phlebotomy career in the United States, you’ll quickly learn that California plays by its own set of rules. While many states have no formal licensing requirements, allowing phlebotomists to work after earning a national certification, California is one of a handful of states that mandates a state-issued license. The cornerstone of this system is the Certified Phlebotomy Technician I, or CPT I. Understanding what this license is, why it exists, and what it allows you to do is the first critical step to legally working as a phlebotomist in the state.

The CPT I is not just a certificate of completion from a training school; it is an official license granted by the California Department of Public Health’s Laboratory Field Services (CDPH-LFS). This agency is responsible for overseeing all clinical laboratory operations and personnel to ensure patient safety and test accuracy. California established this requirement to create a standardized, high bar for competency. The state’s regulations, found in the California Code of Regulations, Title 17, Section 1030, were put in place to reduce pre-analytical errors, such as improper sample collection, which can have serious consequences for patient diagnosis and treatment. This state-level oversight works in tandem with the federal Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA), which set quality standards for all laboratory testing. While CLIA governs the lab, the CDPH-LFS governs the individuals performing specific tasks within it, including blood collection.

So, who absolutely must hold a CPT I license? Essentially, anyone performing venipunctures or skin punctures in a licensed clinical setting in California needs this certification. This includes phlebotomists working in hospitals, outpatient clinics, independent clinical laboratories, blood banks, and for mobile phlebotomy services. There are very few exceptions. The only notable one is for medical assistants who perform phlebotomy as part of their duties in a physician’s office that is not a licensed laboratory. However, for a dedicated phlebotomy role in nearly any other healthcare environment, the CPT I is non-negotiable.

The legal scope of practice for a CPT I is clearly defined. A technician holding this license is authorized to perform two primary types of blood collection:

  • Venipuncture This is the most common procedure, involving the puncture of a vein, typically in the arm, to collect a blood sample using a needle and collection tube system.
  • Skin Puncture This involves puncturing the skin, usually on a fingertip or an infant’s heel, to collect a smaller amount of capillary blood.

Importantly, the CPT I license does not permit arterial punctures. Collecting blood from an artery is a more complex and higher-risk procedure used for specific tests like blood gas analysis. This task is reserved for professionals with advanced training and a CPT II license. CPT I holders work under the general supervision of a physician, clinical laboratory bioanalyst, or other licensed healthcare professional authorized to direct laboratory testing.

A common point of confusion for new and out-of-state applicants is the relationship between national certifications and the California CPT I license. National credentials from organizations like the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), or American Medical Technologists (AMT) are essential, but they are not a substitute for the state license. Think of it this way: passing a national exam proves your knowledge and competency to a professional standard. The CPT I is the legal permission from the state of California to apply that knowledge in a clinical setting.

To obtain your CPT I, you must first pass an exam from a CDPH-approved national certifying organization. However, holding an NHA CPT or ASCP PBT certificate alone does not allow you to work in California. You must submit proof of that certification as part of a larger application packet to the CDPH-LFS. This is a critical distinction. A phlebotomist with years of experience and a valid national certification in Arizona or Nevada cannot simply move to California and start working. They must go through the entire CDPH application process to be granted a CPT I. As of early 2025, the core requirements remain consistent, with the CDPH emphasizing the use of its online application portal for all submissions. Always refer to the official CDPH Phlebotomy Certificate page for the latest forms and procedural updates before you begin. Relying solely on a national credential without state licensure is a direct path to practicing without a license, which has serious legal and professional consequences.

Paths to Eligibility and Approved Training Programs

Navigating the path to your California CPT I license begins with understanding the specific eligibility requirements set by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). Unlike many other states, California has a highly structured system with distinct routes based on your prior experience. The state’s goal is to ensure every licensed phlebotomist meets a consistent, high standard of training and competency. Let’s break down the approved pathways.

The Three Main Eligibility Pathways

California’s Laboratory Field Services (LFS) outlines three primary routes to qualify for the CPT I certificate. Your background and work history will determine which one applies to you. All paths require you to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.

  1. Applicants with No Phlebotomy Experience
    This is the most common path for individuals starting their careers. If you have no prior on-the-job phlebotomy experience, you must complete a full CDPH-approved training program. The requirements are very specific.
    • Didactic Training: A minimum of 40 hours of classroom instruction. This covers both basic and advanced phlebotomy topics.
    • Clinical Training: A minimum of 40 hours of practical, hands-on training in a clinical setting. This externship is where you apply your classroom knowledge.
    • Practical Competency: During your clinical training, you must successfully perform and have documented at least 50 venipunctures and 10 skin punctures on live patients.
  2. Applicants with Some Experience (Less than 1040 hours)
    This route is for individuals who have worked as a phlebotomist but have less than 1040 hours of on-the-job experience within the last five years. This experience must have been gained in a state that does not require phlebotomy licensure.
    • Didactic Training: You are still required to complete 40 hours of didactic (classroom) training from a CDPH-approved program.
    • Experience in Lieu of Clinical Training: You do not need to complete the 40-hour clinical externship. Instead, you must provide documented proof of your experience. This includes a letter from your previous employer, signed by a laboratory director, verifying your hours and competency in performing at least 50 venipunctures and 10 skin punctures.
  3. Applicants with Extensive Experience (1040+ hours)
    If you have significant recent experience, the path is slightly different. This applies to those with 1040 hours or more of on-the-job phlebotomy experience within the last five years, again, from a non-licensure state.
    • Didactic Training: The 40-hour didactic training requirement remains. California insists that all applicants, regardless of experience, are current on state-specific laws, safety protocols, and advanced phlebotomy theory.
    • Experience Documentation: You must submit a detailed letter of experience verifying your 1040+ hours and competency in venipuncture and skin punctures. The specific forms for this are available on the CDPH-LFS website.

Core Competencies and Training Topics

According to the California Code of Regulations, Title 17, Section 1035.1, all approved didactic programs must cover essential topics. These include patient identification, infection control, legal and ethical considerations specific to California, specimen handling and processing, basic anatomy and physiology, and quality assurance. As of 2025, CDPH allows for hybrid programs where the 40 didactic hours may be completed online. However, the 40-hour clinical portion and the final practical examination of skills must be completed in person under direct supervision.

Guidance for Out-of-State and Internationally Trained Applicants

If your training or experience is from outside California, you must prove it is equivalent to the state’s strict standards. Unlicensed work performed within California, except for specific medical assistant roles in a physician’s office, does not count toward these requirements.

Out-of-State Applicants
You will follow one of the experience-based pathways above. You must provide official transcripts from your training program and detailed letters of experience. All documentation must clearly show that your training hours and practical competencies meet or exceed California’s minimums (40 didactic hours, 40 clinical hours, 50 venipunctures, 10 skin punctures).

Internationally Trained Applicants
The process is more involved. In addition to providing official transcripts and letters of experience, you must have your educational credentials evaluated.

  • Credential Evaluation: Your high school and phlebotomy training transcripts must be evaluated by a CDPH-approved agency, such as those belonging to the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or the Association of International Credential Evaluators, Inc. (AICE).
  • Certified Translations: All documents not in English must be accompanied by a certified English translation.

CDPH-LFS will review your entire packet to determine if your background is equivalent. If there are deficiencies, you may be required to complete additional didactic or practical training at a California-approved school.

Finding and Verifying a CDPH-Approved Program

It is critical that you enroll in a program officially approved by the CDPH. Attending a non-approved program will not qualify you for a CPT I license. You can find these programs in various settings, including private vocational schools, community colleges, and some hospital-based training centers.

To verify a program’s status, always check the official source. The CDPH Laboratory Field Services maintains a public list of approved phlebotomy training schools. You can find this list on the Phlebotomy Certificate page of the CDPH website. Before enrolling and paying tuition, cross-reference the school’s name with this official list to ensure it is current and in good standing.

Step by Step Application Checklist for CPT I

You’ve finished your training program and passed the national certification exam. Now, all that stands between you and your CPT I license is the application to the California Department of Public Health’s Laboratory Field Services (CDPH-LFS). This process requires careful attention to detail. Follow this checklist to ensure your application is complete, accurate, and processed as smoothly as possible.

  1. Gather All Required Documentation
    Before you even start the online application, collect digital copies (scans or clear photos) of every required document. Having everything ready will make the process much faster. You will need:

    • Proof of Education. This is your high school diploma, GED, or an official transcript showing your graduation date. If your diploma is from outside the U.S., you’ll need an official English translation and an evaluation from an agency like NACES or AICE.
    • Phlebotomy Training Program Certificate of Completion. This is the official certificate from your CDPH-approved training school. Make sure the school’s name and the program details are clearly visible.
    • Official School Transcripts. Some applicants may need to provide official transcripts from their phlebotomy program, sent directly from the school to CDPH-LFS. Check the specific requirements for your eligibility path.
    • California Statement of Phlebotomy Practical Training. This is a critical form completed by your training program director. It verifies you successfully performed the required number of venipunctures (50) and skin punctures (10). Ensure it is fully filled out and signed by the authorized program official.
    • Letter of Phlebotomy Experience (If Applicable). If you are applying based on work experience rather than a recent training program, you must submit this letter. It must be signed by a laboratory director from a CLIA-certified facility and detail your on-the-job experience over the last five years.
    • Proof of National Certification. This is your certificate or score report from one of the CDPH-approved national certifying organizations. The next chapter covers these exams in detail.
    • Government-Issued Photo ID. A clear copy of your driver’s license, state ID, or passport.

  2. Complete the Online Application
    California has moved its application process online. You will submit your application through the CDPH-LFS online portal. Navigate to the portal and create an account if you don’t have one. Select the option to apply for a new license and choose “Phlebotomy Technician I (CPT I)” from the menu. The system will guide you through a series of questions and provide prompts to upload each of your gathered documents. Fill out every field accurately. A common mistake is using a nickname or a different version of your name than what appears on your official ID and training documents. Your name must match exactly across all submitted paperwork.

  3. Pay the Required Fees
    As of early 2025, the application fee for a CPT I license is $100. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid at the time of submission. The online portal accepts major credit cards for payment. This fee is separate from your training program tuition and the cost of your national certification exam. Be prepared for this final administrative cost.

  4. Address Background Check Requirements
    While CDPH does not require a separate two-step fingerprinting process with the application itself, you must disclose any past felony convictions. A conviction may impact your eligibility for licensure. Most approved training programs conduct a background check as part of their admission process, so this should not be a surprise. Honesty on your application is critical; failing to disclose a conviction can lead to automatic denial.

  5. Submit and Monitor Your Application
    Once you have uploaded all documents, completed the forms, and paid the fee, you can submit your application. You will receive a confirmation email. The official processing timeline can vary but typically takes several weeks. You can check the status of your application by logging back into the CDPH-LFS online portal. The status will update from “Submitted” to “Under Review” and finally to “Approved” or “Deficient.”

What to Do If Your Application is Deficient

If your application status changes to “Deficient,” don’t panic. This is a common issue and usually means you are missing a document, a signature, or some information. CDPH will send a notification, typically through the portal or by email, explaining exactly what is needed. Common reasons for a deficiency notice include:

  • A missing signature on the Statement of Practical Training.
  • An unclear or illegible scan of a document.
  • A name mismatch between your ID and your training certificate.
  • Incomplete clinical logs or missing information on the experience letter.

To correct it, log into the portal and upload the corrected or missing document as instructed. The sooner you respond to the deficiency notice, the sooner your application will be re-evaluated. If you need to mail a physical document, like an official transcript, send it to the CDPH Laboratory Field Services office in Richmond:

Laboratory Field Services – Phlebotomy Program
850 Marina Bay Parkway, Bldg. P 1st Floor
Richmond, CA 94804

Always include your name and any application reference number to ensure the document is matched to your file.

Preparing for and Choosing the Right Certification Exam

After completing your training program and clinical externship, the final academic step before you can apply for your California CPT I license is passing a national certification exam. This isn’t just a formality. It’s the standardized test that proves you have the essential knowledge to perform phlebotomy safely and effectively. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is very specific about which exams it accepts. You must pass an exam from one of their approved certifying organizations. You can always find the most current list on the CDPH phlebotomy certification page, but as of late 2025, the primary organizations remain consistent.

Choosing the right exam depends on your preference, but all approved options are nationally recognized and will satisfy the state’s requirement. Here is a comparison of the most common certification bodies and their exams.

Organization (Exam Title) Exam Details Fees & Retake Policy
American Medical Technologists (AMT)
Registered Phlebotomy Technician (RPT)		 Computer-based exam with 200 multiple-choice questions. You have 2 hours to complete it. Content covers obtaining and transporting specimens, processing, quality control, and safety. The fee is approximately $135, which includes the application and exam. You can retake the exam up to three times after a 45-day waiting period between attempts.
National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)		 Computer-based exam with 120 multiple-choice questions, 20 of which are pre-test questions that do not count toward your score. You have 2 hours. Domains include safety, patient preparation, collection techniques, and processing. The exam fee is around $125. If you don’t pass, you can re-apply to test again after 30 days. You are allowed three attempts per year.
American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
Phlebotomy Technician (PBT)		 Computer-adaptive test with 80 multiple-choice questions and a 2-hour time limit. This format adjusts the difficulty of questions based on your answers. It covers the circulatory system, specimen collection, processing, and laboratory operations. The fee is about $140. You can retake the exam up to five times for one application fee, with specific eligibility routes having different rules. A waiting period applies between attempts.
National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)
National Certified Phlebotomy Technician (NCPT)		 Computer-based exam consisting of 145 multiple-choice questions, with 20 unscored. You are given 3 hours to complete it. The content focuses on quality and professionalism, infection control, risk management, and collection procedures. The fee is $90 for students from partner schools or $135 for others. Retakes are permitted after a 30-day wait, with a maximum of four attempts per year.

A Study Plan for the Real World

Most students are juggling work, family, or other classes. A structured but flexible study plan is key. Aim for a 4 to 6-week study period after your course ends.

Weeks 1-2: Content Deep Dive
Go back through your textbook and class notes. Don’t just reread. Actively study. Create flashcards for key terms, especially for the order of draw, tube additives, and common lab tests. Focus on mastering the “why” behind each step, not just the “how.”

Weeks 3-4: Practice and Application
This is when you start taking practice exams. Most certifying bodies offer official study guides and practice tests. Use them. These questions are designed to mimic the real exam’s style and difficulty. After each practice test, analyze your results. Don’t just look at the score. Identify your weak areas. If you consistently miss questions about special collections, spend a full day reviewing only that material.

Weeks 5-6: Final Polish and Mock Exams
In the final stretch, focus on timed mock exams. Set a timer and simulate the real testing environment. This builds stamina and helps you manage your time effectively. Review your flashcards daily. The day before the exam, do a light review but avoid cramming. Your brain needs to rest.

Core Topics and Skills Checklist

Your exam will cover a wide range of topics, but some are more critical than others. Make sure you are completely confident in these areas.

  • Order of Draw: You must know this backward and forward. No exceptions.
  • Tube Additives: Understand what is in each tube and why it’s there (e.g., EDTA, sodium citrate, heparin).
  • Venipuncture and Dermal Puncture Steps: Be able to mentally walk through each procedure, from greeting the patient to labeling the tubes.
  • Safety and Infection Control: Know OSHA standards, proper PPE use, and what to do in case of an accidental needlestick.
  • Patient Complications: Understand how to handle fainting, hematomas, and nerve damage.
  • Specimen Handling: Know which tests require chilling, protection from light, or immediate transport to the lab.

Test Day and Getting Your Scores to CDPH

On test day, arrive at least 30 minutes early. You will need two forms of valid, government-issued identification, one of which must be a photo ID. Make sure your name on your ID exactly matches the name you registered with. Most testing centers provide a preliminary pass/fail result on the screen immediately after you finish a computerized exam. Your official score report will typically be available in your online account with the certifying agency within a few days to two weeks.

To finalize your CPT I application, you cannot simply print this score report and mail it in. You must request that the certifying organization send an official verification of your passing score directly to CDPH’s Laboratory Field Services (LFS). Each agency has a process for this, usually found in your online portal after you pass. This is a critical step; submitting an unofficial copy is a common reason for application delays.

Landing Your First Job and Career Growth in California and Beyond

Congratulations on passing your exam and earning your national certification. Now, with your California CPT I license application submitted or in hand, the real journey begins. This next phase is all about translating your new credentials into a career. Your license is a powerful key, especially in California, which has some of the highest standards in the nation.

Your First Job as a CPT I in California

As a newly licensed phlebotomist in California, you have a variety of settings to choose from. Each offers a different pace, patient population, and work environment. Your first job will be a critical learning experience, so consider what kind of environment best suits your skills and personality.

  • Hospitals and Medical Centers. This is often a fast-paced environment. You might work in the main laboratory, performing draws on outpatients, or you could be part of a floor team, collecting samples from inpatients. Hospital work exposes you to a wide range of medical conditions and tests. Job titles include Phlebotomist I or Clinical Laboratory Assistant.
  • Outpatient Laboratories. Companies like Quest Diagnostics and Labcorp operate patient service centers (PSCs) across the state. Here, you’ll primarily see ambulatory patients who come in with orders from their doctors. The pace can be very high, especially in the mornings. This setting is excellent for perfecting your venipuncture skills on a high volume of patients. Look for titles like Patient Service Technician (PST) or Phlebotomist.
  • Blood and Plasma Donation Centers. Organizations like the American Red Cross and private plasma centers hire phlebotomists to screen donors and perform the collection process. This role is very focused on donor safety and specific collection protocols using larger gauge needles. Job titles are often Donor Phlebotomy Technician or Collections Specialist.
  • Physician Offices and Clinics. In a smaller clinic, you might be the sole phlebotomist, responsible for all blood draws. This role often includes other duties like sample processing, paperwork, and sometimes basic front-office tasks. It offers a chance to build relationships with a consistent group of patients.
  • Mobile Phlebotomy. This involves traveling to patients’ homes, nursing facilities, or workplaces to collect samples. It requires strong organizational skills, independence, and the ability to work without direct supervision. Many mobile phlebotomists work for specialized companies or as independent contractors.

Salary and Job Outlook in 2025

California’s strict licensing requirements contribute to higher-than-average wages for phlebotomists. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ most recent data projected for 2025, the national median pay for phlebotomists is around $41,810 per year, or about $20.10 per hour. However, California significantly exceeds this. Data from the California Employment Development Department and major job boards like Indeed show that entry-level CPT I positions in late 2025 typically start between $22 and $28 per hour. Wages can be even higher in metropolitan areas like the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles, often starting closer to $30 per hour. In contrast, states without licensing requirements, such as Texas or Arizona, may have starting wages closer to the national median, from $18 to $22 per hour. Your California license, paired with a national certification, makes you a strong candidate anywhere, but your earning potential is highest within the state.

Crafting Your Application

Building Your Resume.
As a new graduate, your resume should be a concise, one-page document. Lead with your credentials. Create a “Certifications and Licenses” section at the top, right under your name and contact information. List your California CPT I License and your national certification (e.g., NHA CPT, ASCP PBT). Your most valuable asset is your clinical externship. Under your “Experience” section, detail where you trained, the hours completed, and most importantly, quantify your skills. For example, write “Successfully performed over 50 venipunctures and 10 skin punctures on diverse patient populations, including pediatric and geriatric patients.”

Writing a Focused Cover Letter.
Avoid generic cover letters. Read the job description carefully and mirror its language. If the posting emphasizes “excellent patient care” and “attention to detail,” use those exact phrases to describe your skills, providing a brief example from your training. State clearly that you are a recently licensed CPT I eager to apply your skills in their specific setting, whether it’s a busy hospital or a community-focused clinic.

Acing the Interview and Landing the Job

Interviews for phlebotomy positions are a mix of assessing your personality and verifying your technical knowledge. Be prepared for common questions like “How do you handle a patient who is afraid of needles?” or “Describe a time you had a difficult draw and what you did.” They will also ask technical questions, such as “What is the correct order of draw?”

To stand out, demonstrate your clinical competence. Bring a professional portfolio containing your license, national certificate, and a redacted copy of your clinical skills log from your training program. This provides tangible proof of your hands-on experience. Have a list of professional references ready, including your clinical instructor, who can speak to your skills and work ethic.

If you’re struggling to find a permanent position right away, consider using healthcare staffing agencies. Companies like Aerotek, Medix, and local agencies often have temporary or per-diem phlebotomy shifts. This is an excellent way to gain experience in different environments, build your professional network, and get your foot in the door at major hospitals and labs.

Career Growth and Continuing Education

Your CPT I license is just the beginning. To maintain it, you must complete 6 hours of continuing education every two years before renewal, a requirement that keeps your skills current and makes you more employable. You can find approved courses through organizations like the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or the National Phlebotomy Association (NPA).

For those seeking advancement, several pathways exist:

  • Certified Phlebotomy Technician II (CPT II). This advanced license allows you to perform arterial punctures, a critical skill in hospital settings like the ICU and ER. To qualify, you must document a minimum of 20 successful arterial punctures under supervision. You can find the specific requirements on the CDPH website.
  • Lab Assistant or Specimen Processor. Working as a phlebotomist is a great entry point to a broader laboratory career. Many phlebotomists transition into roles where they process, test, and manage specimens.
  • Further Healthcare Education. Many use phlebotomy as a stepping stone to other careers, such as becoming a Medical Assistant, Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), or Registered Nurse (RN). The patient care experience you gain is invaluable for these programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Navigating the path to your California phlebotomy license can bring up a lot of questions. Here are clear, direct answers to some of the most common queries we see from aspiring CPT Is.

How long does the CPT I application take to process?
Processing times can fluctuate based on the volume of applications the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) receives. Generally, you should expect it to take several weeks to a few months. The fastest way to get your application processed is to submit it through the official CDPH online portal with all required documents correctly filled out and uploaded. To check the most current processing times, visit the CDPH Laboratory Field Services (LFS) website before you apply.

Do I need fingerprinting or a criminal background check?
While the CDPH application itself does not require a separate fingerprint submission, a criminal background check is an integral part of the process. Most CDPH-approved training programs require a background check for admission. You must disclose any prior convictions on your state application, as a felony conviction may make you ineligible for licensure. Honesty is critical here; a failure to disclose can lead to automatic denial. According to the California Code of Regulations, the state aims to ensure patient safety, which includes vetting candidates. For specifics, it’s best to check the admission requirements of your chosen training program, like those outlined by the California Phlebotomy School.

Can I perform arterial draws as a CPT I?
No. A Certified Phlebotomy Technician I (CPT I) license strictly limits you to performing skin punctures and venipunctures. To perform arterial punctures, you must obtain an advanced CPT II license. This requires holding a valid CPT I, completing additional training, and documenting a minimum of 20 successful arterial punctures under qualified supervision, as detailed on the CDPH’s CPT II Certificate page.

If I have a national certificate but not a CPT I, can I work in California?
Absolutely not. California is one of only four states with its own mandatory state licensure. A national certification from an organization like AMT, NHA, or ASCP is a required step to qualify for the state license, but it does not grant you the legal authority to work. You must have a CPT I license issued by the CDPH to legally perform phlebotomy in any California healthcare setting.

What are the renewal intervals and continuing education requirements?
Your California CPT I license must be renewed every two years. To be eligible for renewal, you must complete six hours of approved continuing education (CE) credits during each two-year cycle. It is your responsibility to track your CEs and submit proof upon renewal. This requirement ensures that phlebotomists stay current with best practices and safety standards. You can find CE providers approved by the state on the CDPH website.

What happens if I fail the national certification exam?
You cannot apply for your California license until you have successfully passed a national certification exam from a CDPH-approved provider. If you fail, you must follow the retake policy of the specific certifying agency you tested with. These policies typically include a mandatory waiting period before you can retest and an additional fee for each attempt. Plan your study time accordingly to avoid delays and extra costs.

Is there reciprocity for CPT I licenses from other states?
No. California does not offer reciprocity for phlebotomy licenses issued by other states. Every applicant, regardless of prior experience or licensure elsewhere, must meet all of California’s unique requirements. This includes graduating from a CDPH-approved program, passing a national exam, and submitting the full CPT I application to the LFS for review.

Are minors or current high school students eligible for a CPT I license?
No. To be admitted into a CDPH-approved phlebotomy training program, you must be at least 18 years of age and possess a high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Because program completion is a prerequisite for licensure, minors are not eligible to become certified phlebotomists in California. This is a standard admission requirement across programs, including at institutions like Loma Linda University.

What are the typical fees, and who pays them?
The applicant is responsible for all associated fees. While costs vary, you can expect to pay for:

  • Training Program Tuition: This is the largest expense and can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
  • National Certification Exam: Approximately $125–$140, depending on the agency.
  • California State Application Fee: $100.
  • Additional Costs: Budget for textbooks, uniforms (around $50), and background check fees.

Some employers may offer tuition reimbursement as a hiring benefit, but you should not count on it. You will pay these fees upfront to become licensed.

What kind of work experience counts toward my application?
The CDPH is extremely specific about acceptable experience. Unlicensed phlebotomy work performed in a California lab is generally not accepted. The primary exception is for medical assistants who performed blood draws in a physician’s office that is not a licensed laboratory. Out-of-state experience is valid only if it was performed in a CLIA-certified lab and is properly documented on the official CDPH “Letter of Phlebotomy Experience” form. Experience from veterinary, research, or forensic settings will not count toward your CPT I application.

What’s the difference between LPT, CPT I, and CPT II?
California has three tiers of phlebotomy licensure:

  • Limited Phlebotomy Technician (LPT): Authorized for skin punctures only. Requires 20 hours of didactic training.
  • Certified Phlebotomy Technician I (CPT I): The standard license for most jobs. Authorized for skin punctures and venipuncture. Requires 40 hours of didactic training and 40 hours of clinical practice.
  • Certified Phlebotomy Technician II (CPT II): An advanced certification. Authorized for skin punctures, venipuncture, and arterial punctures. Requires an active CPT I and specialized arterial draw training.

Can I work while my license application is being processed?
No. It is illegal to perform any phlebotomy duties in California until your license number is officially issued by the CDPH and appears as active in their system. You can and should apply for jobs while your application is pending, but you must inform potential employers of your “license-pending” status and cannot begin any patient-facing phlebotomy tasks until you are fully licensed.

Final Recommendations and Next Steps

You’ve navigated the rules, requirements, and details of California’s phlebotomy licensing process. Now it’s time to turn that knowledge into action. Getting your CPT I license is a straightforward path if you approach it with a clear, organized plan. This final chapter synthesizes everything into a practical timeline and provides the tools you need to not only get licensed but also build a successful career.

Your Action Plan: From Today to Licensed Phlebotomist

Breaking down the journey into manageable steps prevents overwhelm. Here is a prioritized plan to guide you from applicant to licensed professional.

Immediate Steps (The Next 7 Days)
Your first week is about research and preparation. The goal is to make an informed decision about your training path.

  • Confirm Your Eligibility: Locate your high school diploma, GED, or equivalent transcript. If your education was completed outside the U.S., identify a NACES or AICE-approved service for evaluation. You must be at least 18 years old.
  • Research CDPH-Approved Programs: Use the state’s official lists to find approved phlebotomy training programs in your area. Compare tuition, schedules, and student reviews. Contact at least two schools to ask about their clinical externship placements and national exam pass rates.
  • Assess Your Finances: Calculate the total cost, including tuition, state fees ($100), national exam fees (around $125–$140), and supplies like uniforms. Plan your budget accordingly.

Your 30-Day Plan
With your research done, the next month is focused on getting started and organizing your paperwork.

  • Enroll in a Program: Submit your application to your chosen CDPH-approved school.
  • Request Official Transcripts: Contact your high school or GED-issuing institution to have official transcripts sent directly to you or your new school, as required. This can sometimes take a few weeks, so start early.
  • Begin Didactic Training: Dive into your 40 hours of classroom instruction. Focus on mastering the theoretical knowledge, as this is the foundation for your practical skills and the national exam.

Your 90-Day Milestones
This period is when your training intensifies and you begin the transition toward official certification.

  • Complete Clinical Externship: Successfully perform the required 50 venipunctures and 10 skin punctures during your 40-hour clinical training. Get your “California Statement of Phlebotomy Practical Training” form signed by your supervisor.
  • Schedule Your National Exam: Once you are near the end of your program, register for a national certification exam from a CDPH-approved provider like AMT, NHA, or ASCP. Don’t wait until the last minute, as testing slots can fill up.
  • Pass the National Exam: Study diligently and pass your exam. You will receive official verification of your passing score, which is a critical piece of your state application.

Essential Resources to Bookmark

Keep these official links handy throughout your application process and career. They are your primary sources for rules, forms, and updates.

Staying Compliant and Competitive for the Long Haul

Getting your license is the first step. Maintaining it and staying competitive is an ongoing process.

Document Everything:
Create a dedicated digital folder and a physical binder for all your professional documents. This includes your training program certificate, national certification, CPT I license, continuing education certificates, and any correspondence with the CDPH. You will need these for renewal and for job applications.

Master the Renewal Cycle:
Your CPT I license must be renewed every two years. This requires completing six hours of approved continuing education (CE). Set a calendar reminder for yourself at least six months before your license expires to give you plenty of time to find and complete your CE units and submit the renewal application.

Look Beyond the License:
While the CPT I license sets the state standard, some employers have additional requirements. They may prefer candidates with specific national certifications, require additional background checks, or mandate specific in-house training. Always read job descriptions carefully and be prepared to meet employer-specific criteria.

A Note on Regulations: The information here is current for 2025. However, the California Department of Public Health, Laboratory Field Services (CDPH-LFS) can update regulations. Always verify requirements on the official CDPH website before submitting any application or payment.

Final Checklist: Your Path to Paid Work in California

Use this checklist to track your progress.

  • Obtain proof of high school graduation (diploma, GED, or evaluated transcript).
  • Enroll in and complete a CDPH-approved phlebotomy training program (40 hours didactic, 40 hours clinical).
  • Successfully perform a minimum of 50 venipunctures and 10 skin punctures.
  • Obtain a signed “California Statement of Phlebotomy Practical Training” form.
  • Pass a national certification exam from a CDPH-approved organization.
  • Obtain official verification of your passing exam score.
  • Complete the CPT I application form on the CDPH-LFS online portal.
  • Pay all required application and licensing fees (approximately $100).
  • Upload all required documents to the online portal:
    • Official school transcript
    • Certificate of program completion
    • Signed practical training statement
    • Proof of national certification
  • Wait for the CDPH-LFS to process your application and issue your CPT I license.
  • Begin applying for phlebotomy jobs in California.

References

Legal Disclaimers & Brand Notices

General Medical Disclaimer: The content provided in this article is for informational and educational purposes only. It is intended to guide individuals through the licensing process for phlebotomy in California. This information discusses specific medical procedures (venipuncture, skin puncture, arterial puncture) and patient safety protocols. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider or licensed physician with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, procedure, or patient safety protocol.

Trademark and Brand Acknowledgement: All organizational names, logos, and brands mentioned in this article (including, but not limited to, NHA, ASCP, AMT, NCCT, Quest Diagnostics, Labcorp, Aerotek, and Medix) are the property of their respective owners. The use of these names, trademarks, and brands is for identification and informational purposes only and does not imply endorsement or affiliation.