Careers · Phlebotomy Guide
How to Become a Phlebotomist: Training, Certification and Pay (2026)
Phlebotomy is one of the quickest ways into healthcare: most training programs take less than a year. Here is how to get certified, what the job pays according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and what to check before you pay for a program.
Is Phlebotomy a Good Way to Start Paying Off Debt?
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It is one of the fastest entry points into healthcare. BLS counted about 143,900 phlebotomist jobs in 2025 and projects 7 percent growth from 2025 to 2035, much faster than average, with about 18,000 openings each year. The median phlebotomist earned $45,230 a year ($21.75 an hour) in May 2025.
The trade-offs: pay is lower than in the skilled trades, you may stand for long periods, and hospital and lab jobs can include nights, weekends and holidays. Many people use phlebotomy as a first step toward higher-paying lab or nursing careers. Compare options in our guide to careers you can train for.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics — Phlebotomists
How to Become a Phlebotomist: 4 Steps
- Finish high school or a GED. Training programs generally require it.
- Complete a phlebotomy program. Programs at community colleges, vocational schools and technical schools usually take less than a year and combine classroom work with supervised practice drawing blood.
- Earn a professional certification. Employers may prefer candidates certified by a professional organization, which usually means passing an exam after training.
- Meet your state’s rules. States may require an accredited program, a license or certification, or other requirements. Check your state health department before you enroll.
Source: BLS — Phlebotomists: How to become one
Example: California’s Certified Phlebotomy Technician I
California is one of the states with its own requirement. For the Certified Phlebotomy Technician I (CPT I) certificate, the California Department of Public Health requires:
- 40 hours of basic and advanced classroom training (20 hours of advanced training if you already have 1,040 or more hours of experience)
- Documented practice of at least 50 venipunctures and 10 skin punctures, plus observation of arterial punctures
- A passing score on a national certification exam from a CDPH-approved organization
- Annual renewal with documented continuing education
Source: California Department of Public Health — Phlebotomy Technician I (CPT I) Certificate
Source: DOL — WIOA Adult program; CareerOneStop — Find an American Job Center
Protect Your Debt Plan While You Train
- Plan for the gap. If training means fewer work hours for a while, list your must-pay bills first with our guide to which bills to pay first.
- Call creditors early. Ask about hardship programs, or look into a nonprofit debt management plan.
- Once the paychecks grow, put the raise to work with the avalanche or snowball method before lifestyle costs catch up.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a phlebotomist?
Phlebotomy training programs usually take less than a year to complete, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
How much do phlebotomists make?
Phlebotomists earned a median of $45,230 a year ($21.75 an hour) in May 2025, according to BLS. Half earned more and half earned less.
Do you need to be certified to be a phlebotomist?
It depends on your state. BLS says states may require an accredited program, a license or certification, and many employers prefer certified candidates. California, for example, requires a state CPT I certificate.
Is phlebotomy a good stepping stone?
Many people use it as a fast entry into healthcare. It pays less than many skilled trades, but the short training time can help you start earning quickly while you plan your next step.
Sources (verified Oct 2, 2026)
Pay and outlook figures are from the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook (May 2025 pay; 2025–35 projections). State requirements vary; California rules are from the California Department of Public Health. This guide is educational, not career, legal or financial advice.