Top 10 Laboratory Technician Certifications

Certifications are an important asset for laboratory technicians in the job market. They demonstrate a high level of competency and proficiency in the field, and show that a technician has mastered the necessary skills to excel in their role. In addition, certifications can provide assurance to employers that a technician is up-to-date on the latest procedures and technologies used in the laboratory environment. Finally, certifications can increase job security as they allow technicians to easily transition between different laboratories or roles within the same laboratory.

This article reviews the top certifications for Laboratory Technicians and explains how they can help to further a laboratory technician's career.

What are Laboratory Technician Certifications?

Laboratory technician certification is a credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to work in a laboratory setting. This certification is typically awarded by professional organizations, such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA).

By becoming certified, laboratory technicians can show potential employers that they are knowledgeable and prepared to work in a laboratory setting. Certification also allows technicians to stay abreast of new developments in their field, as many certifying organizations require continuing education credits to maintain certification status. Additionally, some employers may provide higher salaries or additional benefits for employees who hold current certifications.

In short, obtaining a laboratory technician certification can help demonstrate proficiency and commitment to the profession, potentially resulting in more job opportunities and better pay.

Pro Tip: If you are looking to become a certified laboratory technician, make sure to research the specific requirements for your state or jurisdiction. In some cases, you may need to obtain additional certifications or complete specific courses in order to be eligible for certification. Additionally, be sure to stay up-to-date on any changes in regulations related to laboratory technician certification.

Related: What does a Laboratory Technician do?

Top 10 Laboratory Technician Certifications

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

1. Clinical Laboratory Technician Certification (CLT)

Clinical Laboratory Technician Certification (CLT) is a credential that demonstrates a technician's knowledge and experience in laboratory medicine. It is offered by the American Medical Technologists (AMT), a nationally recognized certifying body.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements. The minimum education requirement is an associate degree in medical technology or a related field from an accredited college or university. Applicants must also have at least one year of full-time clinical laboratory work experience within the past five years.

The certification exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions covering topics such as hematology, immunohematology, microbiology, and chemistry. The exam takes three hours to complete and costs $150 for AMT members and $200 for non-members.

Once certified, CLTs are required to maintain their certification through continuing education credits every two years. They must also renew their certification every four years by completing a renewal application and paying a fee of $50 for AMT members or $75 for non-members.

2. Medical Laboratory Technician Certification (MLT)

Medical Laboratory Technician Certification (MLT) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and proficiency in the field of laboratory medicine. It is awarded by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Certification (BOC). The certification is valid for three years and must be renewed every three years.

In order to become certified, individuals must meet certain requirements, including completing a minimum of an associate degree program in medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution, or equivalent training and experience. Additionally, applicants must pass the MLT certification exam administered by the ASCP BOC. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions on topics such as hematology, chemistry, immunology, microbiology and blood banking.

The cost of taking the MLT certification exam is $225 for ASCP members and $325 for non-members. The cost includes one free retake within one year if needed. After passing the exam, individuals will receive their permanent MLT certificate and wallet card within 4-6 weeks.

Overall, Medical Laboratory Technician Certification (MLT) provides individuals with an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in laboratory medicine while also providing employers with assurance that they are hiring qualified professionals to work in their laboratories.

3. Certified Histology Technician (CHT)

A Certified Histology Technician (CHT) is a healthcare professional who specializes in the preparation and examination of tissue samples for diagnostic purposes. The CHT prepares tissue samples by cutting, staining, mounting, and examining them under a microscope to determine their cellular composition. The CHT also assists pathologists in performing autopsies and other laboratory tests.

It typically takes two to four years of post-secondary education or on-the-job training to become a CHT. Most programs include courses in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, histology techniques, and laboratory safety procedures. Upon completion of a program or on-the-job training, applicants must pass the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) certification exam to become certified as a CHT.

The cost of the ASCP certification exam varies depending on the type of certification sought; however, it typically costs between $200-$400 USD.

4. Clinical Chemistry Technician Certification (CCT)

Clinical Chemistry Technician Certification (CCT) is a voluntary certification program for individuals who work in the field of clinical chemistry. This certification is offered by the American Association for Clinical Chemistry (AACC). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of those who work in this field.

The CCT certification requires applicants to have at least two years of experience in clinical chemistry or related fields. Applicants must also pass an examination that covers topics such as laboratory safety, quality assurance, laboratory operations, instrumentation, and laboratory mathematics. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

In order to become certified, applicants must submit a completed application form along with the required fees. The cost of the CCT certification application is $250 for AACC members and $350 for non-members. Once all materials are received by AACC, it typically takes about 6 weeks for processing and approval of the application. After approval, applicants will receive their certificate within 2-3 weeks.

The CCT certification must be renewed every three years by submitting proof of continuing education credits or a re-examination fee ($125 for AACC members/$175 for non-members). Renewal fees are due prior to expiration date listed on the certificate.

5. Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)

Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) is a professional certification program designed to train and certify individuals in the practice of collecting and processing blood specimens. The CPT program is administered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) and is recognized nationally as a standard of excellence in phlebotomy.

The CPT program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical skills assessment. The written exam covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, safety protocols, specimen collection techniques, and laboratory procedures. The practical skills assessment tests an individual’s ability to properly collect and process blood specimens.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CPT program. During that time, individuals must complete an approved training course and pass both parts of the exam. Training courses are offered by various organizations including community colleges, technical schools, vocational schools, or online programs.

The cost of the CPT program varies depending on the organization offering it but typically ranges from $300-$600 USD. Some organizations may also offer financial assistance or scholarships to help cover the cost of tuition and fees associated with the program.

In order to become certified as a CPT, individuals must successfully complete both parts of the exam within two years from the start date of their training course. Upon successful completion of both exams, individuals will receive their official NCCT Certified Phlebotomy Technician certificate which can be used to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in phlebotomy practices.

6. Certified Hemodialysis Technician (CHDT)

Certified Hemodialysis Technician (CHDT) is a certification program offered by the Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission (NNCC). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skills related to hemodialysis treatment. The CHDT certification is available to those who have completed an approved dialysis technician training program, or have at least 2 years of experience as a hemodialysis technician.

To become certified, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as dialysis equipment and supplies, patient assessment and care, infection control, water quality management, vascular access management, and troubleshooting.

The CHDT certification requires applicants to renew their certification every three years. This can be done by completing continuing education activities or retaking the exam.

The cost of the CHDT certification depends on the applicant's route of entry into the program. Those with prior experience may be eligible for discounted fees. Generally speaking, it costs $125 to take the exam plus any applicable fees for additional services such as retesting or late registration.

7. Certified Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS)

A Certified Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) is a professional who performs medical laboratory tests to analyze body fluids, tissue and other substances. MLSs are responsible for collecting samples, performing tests, analyzing results and reporting findings. They also help diagnose diseases, monitor treatments and provide information to physicians.

It typically takes two years to become a Certified Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS). To get certified, you must first complete an accredited MLS program. These programs usually involve courses in biology, chemistry, mathematics and laboratory techniques. After completing the program, you will need to pass a certification exam administered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

The cost of becoming a Certified Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) varies depending on the program you choose and where you take it. Generally speaking, tuition fees range from $2,000-$20,000 per year. In addition to tuition fees, there may be additional costs such as books and supplies or exam fees.

Once you have completed your training and passed the certification exam, you will need to maintain your certification by completing continuing education credits every three years. The cost of these credits depends on the type of course taken but can range from $50-$300 per credit hour.

8. Certified Cytotechnologist (CT)

A Certified Cytotechnologist (CT) is a healthcare professional who specializes in the examination of cells to identify and diagnose diseases. They are trained to analyze cell samples from various sources, including body fluids, tissues, and biopsies. The cytotechnologist's work helps physicians make accurate diagnoses and develop effective treatments for patients.

To become a certified cytotechnologist, an individual must complete a program in cytotechnology accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). These programs typically take two to three years to complete and include courses in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, laboratory techniques, and clinical practice. Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to take the national certification exam administered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

The cost of becoming a certified cytotechnologist varies depending on the institution offering the program. Most programs require tuition fees as well as additional costs for textbooks and other materials. Additionally, students may be required to pay for their own travel expenses if they need to attend an off-site lab or clinical rotation.

Once certified, cytotechnologists must renew their credentials every three years through continuing education credits or re-examination. The cost of recertification varies depending on which route is chosen; however it typically ranges from $50-$200 per year.

9. Certified Microbiology Technologist (CMT)

A Certified Microbiology Technologist (CMT) is a professional designation that recognizes the expertise and experience of individuals who work in the field of microbiology. CMTs are responsible for performing laboratory tests, analyzing data, and providing results to medical personnel. They may also be involved in research projects and clinical trials.

The certification process typically takes between three to six months to complete. To become certified, applicants must first meet educational requirements, which include having a bachelor's degree in microbiology or a related field from an accredited college or university. After meeting the educational requirements, applicants must then pass a written exam administered by the American Society for Microbiology (ASM). The exam covers topics such as laboratory safety, laboratory techniques, and laboratory management.

Once an applicant has passed the exam, they must submit an application and pay a fee to receive their CMT certification. The fee varies depending on whether or not you are an ASM member, but typically ranges from $50-$150 USD. Once certified, CMTs must maintain their certification by completing continuing education credits every two years.

10. American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification for Medical Laboratory Personnel (ASCP-BOC).

The American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification for Medical Laboratory Personnel (ASCP-BOC) is a voluntary certification program that provides recognition to medical laboratory personnel who demonstrate mastery of the knowledge and skills essential to their profession. It is a widely recognized credential in the field of medical laboratory science and is required by some employers.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements and pass an exam. The ASCP-BOC offers three levels of certification: MLT (Medical Laboratory Technician), MLS (Medical Laboratory Scientist), and SBB (Specialist in Blood Banking). Depending on the level of certification sought, applicants may need to have completed an accredited program or have at least one year of work experience in the field.

The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as hematology, immunohematology, clinical chemistry, microbiology, urinalysis/body fluids, molecular diagnostics/genetics, immunology/serology/virology, blood banking/transfusion medicine, and safety/quality assurance. The exam can take up to five hours to complete.

The cost for taking the ASCP-BOC exam varies depending on the level of certification sought. For MLT certification it costs $195; for MLS certification it costs $250; and for SBB certification it costs $400.

Once certified, individuals must renew their credentials every three years by completing continuing education credits or retaking the exam.

Do You Really Need a Laboratory Technician Certificate?

In today’s competitive job market, having a laboratory technician certificate can be a great way to stand out from the competition. Having a certificate shows potential employers that you have taken the initiative to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in this field. It also demonstrates your dedication to becoming an expert in your chosen profession, which is something employers are looking for.

While it is not absolutely necessary to obtain a laboratory technician certificate, having one can be beneficial in many ways. For starters, it provides you with the credentials needed to work as a lab technician in most states or countries. Additionally, having such a certification can open up doors for further career advancement opportunities. Many companies prefer to hire certified technicians because they know that these individuals possess the knowledge and skill set required for success in their positions.

In addition, obtaining a laboratory technician certificate allows you to stay up-to-date on industry developments, trends and techniques. This ensures that you are better able to handle any situation that arises on the job and provide quality results. Furthermore, having such credentials may give you access to higher salaries as well as access to more job opportunities than those without certification. Finally, being certified makes it easier for potential employers to verify your qualifications and trust in your abilities when considering you for employment.

Overall, obtaining a laboratory technician certificate is not always required but can certainly be beneficial if you want to advance your career or increase your earning potential within this field of work.

Related: Laboratory Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Laboratory Technician Certifications

1. What types of laboratory technician certifications are available?

Answer: There are a variety of certifications available, including Certified Clinical Laboratory Technician (CCLT), Certified Medical Laboratory Technician (CMLT), and Registered Medical Laboratory Technician (RMLT).

2. How do I become certified as a laboratory technician?

Answer: To become certified, you must complete an accredited education program and pass an exam administered by a recognized certifying agency.

3. What is the difference between CCLT and CMLT certification?

Answer: CCLT certification is for laboratory technicians who specialize in clinical laboratory techniques, while CMLT certification is for those who specialize in medical laboratory techniques.

4. What types of jobs can I get with a laboratory technician certification?

Answer: With a laboratory technician certification, you can find jobs in hospitals, research laboratories, universities, diagnostic laboratories, and other health care settings.

5. How often do I need to renew my lab technician certification?

Answer: Most certifications require renewal every two years or after completing continuing education hours.