How to Renew Your Phlebotomy Certification or License (2026)
Oct 29, 2026
Updated October 2026.
NHA phlebotomy certifications, including the CPT, renew every two years with 10 continuing education credits and a $195 renewal fee. Florida does not license phlebotomists, so only your national certification needs renewing here. If you work in California, Louisiana, Nevada or Washington, check your state’s rules too, and confirm the current rules with your certifying agency.
Once certified, a phlebotomist must renew and maintain their certification on the schedule set by the certifying agency, by completing continuing education. This requirement can be fulfilled through on-the-job workshops or online continuing education units (CEUs). In this article, the steps to renew your certification will be explained in detail as well as a guide to what challenges you might encounter while renewing it.
Table of Contents
- Steps to renew your phlebotomy certification
- How to renew a phlebotomy license
- Common challenges in a phlebotomy license renewal
- Why renewing your phlebotomy credentials matters
Steps to renew your phlebotomy certification
Phlebotomists must take specific steps to ensure their certification remains valid. What You can Do With a Phlebotomy Certification is one of the reasons why you must keep in check your professional credentials, keep your knowledge current, and comply with industry standards.
1. Identify your certifying body
Each certifying organization may have its own requirements and procedures for certification and renewal. Common bodies include the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
2. Check your certification expiration and renewal requirements
Be sure you know the expiration date of your certification and the specific requirements for renewal you need to make renewals to avoid lapses.
3. Complete the required continuing education credits
Phlebotomists typically need to complete a certain number of CEUs to qualify for renewal. These can be earned through workshops or online Continuing Education Units (CEUs).
4. Prepare the necessary documents
Gather documentation proving completion of your continuing education credits, current identification, and any other required forms.
5. Submit your renewal application
Applications are often submitted through the certifying review body's website or via mail. Ensure accuracy to avoid delays.
6. Pay the renewal fee
Fees vary depending on the certifying organization. Be sure to pay promptly to complete the renewal process.
7. Verify your renewal
After submission one of our Phlebotomy Tips is to confirm that your certification has been successfully renewed to continue practicing without interruptions.
Renewal rules by agency
| Agency and credential | Cycle | Requirement | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| NHA (CPT) | Every 2 years | 10 continuing education credits | $195 renewal |
| AMT (RPT) | 3-year cycle | 24 CCP points (8 per year) | $75 annual fee |
ASCP and other agencies set their own rules, so check your agency’s credential maintenance page. Sources: NHA renewal and AMT certification maintenance, checked in October 2026. Fees change, so confirm them before you pay.
If your NHA certification expires
- Expired less than 30 days: renew normally, with no extra fee.
- Expired more than 30 days but less than one year: reinstate with 15 continuing education credits, the $292.50 renewal fee and a $99 reinstatement fee ($391.50 in total).
- Expired more than one year: you must retake the NHA exam.
How to renew a phlebotomy license
A few states, including California, Louisiana, Nevada and Washington, have their own state credentials for phlebotomists. Renewal follows the state agency’s rules, which can differ from your national certification. Applicants must complete the same steps, but specifically for their state-issued license.
State-specific resources for license renewal:
- California: California Department of Public Health, Laboratory Field Services. Check its personnel renewal page for the current renewal period and continuing education.
- Louisiana: Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners (clinical laboratory personnel).
- Nevada: Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health. Phlebotomists are certified as laboratory assistants.
- Washington: Washington State Department of Health, Medical Assistant credential. DOH says medical assistant credentials have no continuing education requirement for renewal.
Common challenges in a phlebotomy license renewal
One of the Pros and Cons of Being a Phlebotomist includes the renewing of a phlebotomy license or certification, and it can come with challenges. Addressing these issues proactively and with previous organization can save time and stress.
Expired licenses
Renewing your license years before it expires is critical to avoid penalties from employers or lapses in employment eligibility.
Incomplete documentation
Ensure all required forms and evidence of continuing education are accurate and submitted in full.
Changes in certification requirements
Stay updated on any new regulations or additional review steps introduced by certifying bodies or licensing authorities.
Why renewing your phlebotomy credentials matters
The Life of a Phlebotomist comes with the renewing pf the certification and licenses for which is not merely a formality; it has lasting benefits for a phlebotomist's career.
Keep your skills up-to-date
Renewal ensures you remain informed about the latest techniques, tools, and regulations taking part in the field of phlebotomy.
Increase job opportunities
Active credentials signal to employers your commitment to maintaining professional standards, enhancing your employability.
FAQs about renewing a phlebotomy certification
How long is a phlebotomy certification good for?
It depends on the agency. NHA certifications last two years, and AMT certifications run on a three-year cycle with an annual fee. Check your agency for its current cycle.
What happens if my phlebotomy certification expires?
For NHA, you can still renew normally if it expired less than 30 days ago. Between 30 days and one year, you must reinstate with 15 continuing education credits and fees totaling $391.50. After one year, you must retake the exam.
Does Florida require a phlebotomy license?
No. Florida does not license phlebotomists: they are excluded from the state’s definition of clinical laboratory personnel (see s. 483.803, Florida Statutes). Most employers still require national certification.
Need a certification first? See how to get a phlebotomy certification, how to pass the NHA phlebotomy exam or FHCA’s phlebotomy program in Orlando.
