Top 11 Lab Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for lab technicians in the job market because they demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and proficiency in laboratory operations, safety protocols, and laboratory techniques. Certification also gives employers a sense of assurance that their lab technicians are properly trained and qualified to carry out their duties. Additionally, certifications can help lab technicians stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs or promotions. Finally, certifications can often lead to higher pay rates and better job opportunities.

The purpose of this article is to review and explain the value of some of the top certifications available to Lab Technicians, and how they can help enhance their career development.

What are Lab Technician Certifications?

Lab technician certification is a process of verifying an individual’s qualifications and experience to work in a laboratory setting. Certification is typically granted by an organization or agency that specializes in the field, such as the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS). The certification process typically consists of passing an exam, demonstrating knowledge in specific areas related to laboratory safety and procedures, and completing continuing education requirements.

The benefits of lab technician certification are numerous. It serves as proof that the individual has met the standards set by their chosen certifying body and has received adequate training for their position. This can help employers make sure they are hiring qualified personnel to work in their laboratories. Additionally, certified lab technicians may be eligible for higher wages or promotions since they have demonstrated a commitment to the profession through their certification. Finally, becoming certified can open up new opportunities for advancement within the field since many organizations prefer to hire those with credentials from reputable organizations like ASCLS.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research and understand the requirements for lab technician certification in your area before applying. Different states and jurisdictions may have different educational and experience requirements, so it's important to know what you need to do to become certified.

Related: What does a Lab Technician do?

Top 11 Lab Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Lab Technicians today.

1. Certified Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT)

A Certified Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) is a healthcare professional who performs laboratory tests and procedures to diagnose and monitor diseases. MLTs are responsible for collecting and analyzing specimens, performing laboratory tests, interpreting results, and reporting findings to physicians.

To become an MLT, individuals must complete a two-year associate degree program in medical laboratory technology from an accredited college or university. The program includes courses in chemistry, biology, mathematics, medical terminology, clinical procedures, and other related topics. Upon completion of the program, graduates must pass a national certification exam administered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

The cost of an MLT program can vary depending on the school and location; however, it typically ranges between $5,000-$20,000. In addition to tuition costs, students should also plan for expenses such as books and materials.

Once certified as an MLT by the ASCP Board of Certification (BOC), individuals must maintain their certification by completing continuing education credits every three years.

2. Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)

Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) is a certification that demonstrates that an individual has the skills and knowledge necessary to work as a phlebotomist. A phlebotomist is a healthcare professional who specializes in collecting and processing blood samples for laboratory testing.

To become certified, individuals must complete an accredited phlebotomy training program. The length of the program depends on the type of certification being sought; however, most programs range from 6-12 months in duration.

The cost of a CPT certification varies depending on the institution offering it; however, most programs range from $500-$2000.

In order to obtain certification, applicants must pass an exam administered by a certifying organization such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). The exam consists of both written and practical components and covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, infection control, specimen collection techniques, safety protocols, patient relations, laboratory operations and more. Once certified, individuals must renew their certification every two years by completing continuing education credits or retaking the exam.

3. Certified Histotechnician (HT)

A Certified Histotechnician (HT) is a professional who specializes in the preparation of tissue samples for examination by a pathologist. The HT prepares, processes, and stains tissue specimens to enable the pathologist to accurately diagnose diseases and other medical conditions. The HT must have knowledge of anatomy, pathology, histology, laboratory techniques and safety procedures.

The certification process typically takes between 6-12 months to complete. In order to become certified as an HT, you must first complete an accredited histotechnology program and then pass the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Certification (BOC) exam. The ASCP BOC exam consists of two parts: a written multiple choice section and a practical skills assessment.

The cost of becoming certified as an HT varies depending on the individual’s educational background and experience level. Generally, it costs around $200-$400 for the application fee, $100-$200 for the study materials, and $300-$400 for the certification exam fee.

4. Certified Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS)

A Certified Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) is a professional who has completed an accredited program in clinical laboratory science and has passed a certification exam. The CLS is responsible for performing tests on blood, body fluids, and other specimens to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.

The length of time it takes to become a CLS varies depending on the individual's educational background. Those with a bachelor's degree in medical technology or a related field may only need to complete an additional 12-month program in clinical laboratory science before taking the certification exam. Those without a bachelor's degree may need to complete an accredited two-year associate's degree program before taking the exam.

To become certified as a CLS, individuals must first pass the ASCP Board of Certification (BOC) examination. This exam is offered by several organizations, including the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). The BOC exam consists of both written and practical components and covers topics such as hematology, immunology, microbiology, chemistry, and molecular diagnostics.

The cost of taking the BOC certification exam varies depending on where you take it and which organization you use. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $200-$400 USD for the written portion of the exam and up to $800 USD for the practical portion. Additionally, there may be fees associated with applying for certification or renewing your certification every few years.

5. Certified Quality Control Analyst (CQCA)

Certified Quality Control Analyst (CQCA) is a certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in quality control principles, practices, and techniques. CQCA certification validates an individual’s ability to analyze data and identify areas of improvement in order to improve product or process quality.

The CQCA certification requires passing a two-part exam. The first part consists of multiple-choice questions, while the second part is an essay exam. Both parts must be completed within three hours. The exam fee is $349 USD for ASQ members and $449 USD for non-members.

To become certified as a CQCA, individuals must meet certain educational and/or work experience requirements. Candidates must have either a bachelor's degree in engineering or science, or at least five years of documented work experience in quality control or related fields. Additionally, candidates must pass both parts of the CQCA exam with a score of 70% or higher on each part.

Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their CQCA certificate from ASQ within 6-8 weeks. The certificate is valid for three years from the date it was issued and can be renewed through continuing education credits or by retaking the exam.

6. Certified Clinical Research Associate (CCRA)

A Certified Clinical Research Associate (CCRA) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and experience in the field of clinical research. The CCRA certification is issued by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP).

The CCRA certification requires applicants to have at least two years of full-time clinical research experience, or one year of full-time clinical research experience and a Bachelor’s degree in a related field. Candidates must also pass an exam administered by ACRP. The exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions, covering topics such as Good Clinical Practice, regulatory requirements, ethics, study design and data management.

It typically takes several months to prepare for the CCRA exam. Candidates should review ACRP’s study guide and practice exams prior to taking the exam. Additionally, candidates may wish to enroll in an ACRP-approved training course or workshop to gain additional knowledge and skills in clinical research.

The cost for the CCRA certification is $675 USD for members of ACRP and $875 USD for non-members. This fee includes the application fee, exam fee, and first year membership dues for ACRP if applicable.

7. American Society for Clinical Pathology Certification in Cytotechnology (ASCP-CT)

The American Society for Clinical Pathology Certification in Cytotechnology (ASCP-CT) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to practice cytotechnology. It is the only nationally recognized certification for cytotechnologists in the United States.

To become certified, an individual must first meet the eligibility requirements, which include having a bachelor’s degree in a health-related field and completing an accredited cytotechnology program. Additionally, they must pass a written exam administered by the ASCP Board of Certification (BOC). The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as anatomy and physiology, laboratory techniques, safety and quality assurance, and clinical applications of cytotechnology.

Once these requirements are met, it typically takes about two months to receive certification from the BOC. The cost of the exam is $295 for non-members of ASCP or $245 for members.

In addition to passing the written exam, applicants must also complete continuing education courses every three years to maintain their certification status. These courses are offered through various organizations such as ASCP and can range from online classes to seminars or conferences.

8. National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel Certification in Microbiology (NCA-CMP)

The National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA-CMP) is an independent, non-profit organization that provides certification for laboratory personnel who specialize in the field of microbiology. The NCA-CMP offers a comprehensive certification program that is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of laboratory personnel who are working in the field of microbiology.

To be eligible for the NCA-CMP certification program, applicants must have completed at least two years of college or university coursework in a microbiology related field and have at least one year of experience in a clinical or research laboratory setting. Additionally, applicants must pass an examination administered by the NCA-CMP.

The process of obtaining NCA-CMP certification can take up to six months from start to finish. During this time, applicants must complete all necessary requirements including submitting their application form, providing proof of education and experience, passing the written examination, and paying all applicable fees.

The cost of obtaining NCA-CMP certification varies depending on whether or not you choose to take advantage of any discounts offered by the organization. Generally speaking, it will cost around $500 to obtain your certification. This fee includes the application fee as well as any other applicable fees such as those associated with taking the written examination or attending any required training courses.

9. National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel Certification in Chemistry (NCA-CCP)

The National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel Certification in Chemistry (NCA-CCP) is a nonprofit organization that provides certification to laboratory personnel in the field of chemistry. This certification is an indication of a professional’s knowledge and experience in the field, and can be used as evidence of competency when applying for jobs or promotions.

The certification process typically takes three to six months to complete. The first step is to submit an application form, along with any required documentation such as transcripts or letters of recommendation. After the application has been reviewed, applicants will receive an eligibility determination letter outlining the requirements they must meet to become certified.

Once all requirements have been met, applicants must take and pass a written examination. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as safety protocols, laboratory techniques, and data analysis. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their NCA-CCP certification.

The cost for becoming certified through NCA-CCP varies depending on the type of certification being sought; however, most certifications range from $200-$500 USD.

10. American Association of Bioanalysts Certification in Molecular Diagnostics (AAB-MDX)

The American Association of Bioanalysts Certification in Molecular Diagnostics (AAB-MDX) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate the highest level of expertise and proficiency in molecular diagnostics. The program is designed to ensure that certified professionals have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform accurate, reliable, and reproducible molecular diagnostic tests.

The AAB-MDX certification process consists of two parts: an online application and an in-person examination. The online application requires applicants to submit information about their educational background, current employment status, and experience with molecular diagnostics. Once the application is approved, applicants must take and pass a comprehensive written exam that covers topics such as laboratory safety, quality assurance/control, laboratory management, data analysis, and interpretation of results.

It typically takes four to six months for applicants to complete the entire certification process. To get certified, applicants must first register for the exam through the AAB website. After registering for the exam, they must pay a fee of $250 USD before they can take it.

Once they have passed the exam, they will receive their official AAB-MDX certification card within two weeks. This card will serve as proof of their certification status and should be kept in a safe place at all times.

11. American Association of Blood Banks Certification in Transfusion Medicine (AABB-TM).

The American Association of Blood Banks (AABB) Certification in Transfusion Medicine (AABB-TM) is a voluntary certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of individuals who are involved in the practice of transfusion medicine. This certification is intended for physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals who have expertise in the field of transfusion medicine.

To obtain AABB-TM certification, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and successfully pass an examination. The eligibility requirements include having a minimum of two years' experience in the practice of transfusion medicine and being certified or eligible for certification by either the American Board of Pathology or the American Board of Medical Specialties. Additionally, applicants must be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of current standards and practices related to transfusion medicine.

The AABB-TM examination consists of multiple choice questions that cover topics such as blood banking, laboratory operations, donor screening, blood component preparation, quality assurance/quality control, clinical applications, patient safety issues, regulatory compliance, research methods, and professional ethics. The exam is administered twice a year at various locations throughout the United States.

The cost to take the AABB-TM exam is $1125 for members and $1375 for nonmembers. The fee includes all materials needed to complete the exam as well as access to online resources such as study guides and practice tests. It typically takes four to six weeks after submitting an application before you will receive notification that you are eligible to take the exam. After passing the exam you will receive your AABB-TM certification within one month.

Do You Really Need a Lab Technician Certificate?

The answer to whether or not you need a lab technician certificate depends on your career goals and the requirements of the job you are seeking. If you want to pursue a career as a laboratory technician, then having a certificate is likely required. Lab technicians are responsible for performing tests, collecting samples, and maintaining laboratory equipment. In order to do this effectively, they must have a good understanding of laboratory techniques and be able to recognize potential hazards.

Having a certificate in this field can demonstrate that you have the necessary skills and knowledge needed for success in the position. It also shows that you took the time to learn about the field and are serious about pursuing it as a career. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire those who have received formal training in the area of lab work.

On the other hand, if your goal is simply to gain experience in laboratory work without becoming an official lab technician, then having a certificate may not be necessary. Many employers are willing to provide on-the-job training so long as they know that you have some basic knowledge of how laboratories operate and how tests should be run. If this is all that is required of you, then having certification may not be necessary unless it is specifically stated in the job description or requested by your employer.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a lab technician certificate will depend on what type of position you are looking for and what qualifications are required by your employer. If certification is important for your desired role, then it would behoove you to get certified before applying for any positions related to lab work.

Related: Lab Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Lab Technician Certifications

1. How do I become a certified lab technician?

Answer: To become a certified lab technician, you must first complete an accredited program in laboratory technology or medical technology. After completing the program, you must then pass a certification exam to be eligible for certification.

2. What type of certifications are available for lab technicians?

Answer: There are several types of certifications available for lab technicians, including ASCP (American Society for Clinical Pathology) and AMT (American Medical Technologists) certification. Each certification has different requirements and standards that must be met in order to qualify for the certification.

3. What is the cost of getting certified as a lab technician?

Answer: The cost of becoming certified as a lab technician can vary depending on the type of certification you are seeking and the organization providing it. Generally, fees range from $200-$600 depending on the specific program and organization chosen.

4. What types of jobs can I get with my lab technician certification?

Answer: With your lab technician certification, you may be eligible to work in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, research labs, clinics, and diagnostic laboratories. You may also be able to find employment in other industries such as pharmaceuticals or biotechnology companies.

5. How long does it take to get certified as a lab technician?

Answer: It typically takes about 6 months to complete all necessary steps required to become certified as a lab technician. This includes completing an accredited program in laboratory technology or medical technology and passing the relevant certification exam(s).