Healthcare Support

Phlebotomy Technician

Phlebotomy technicians draw blood for tests, donations, and medical procedures.

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Weeks to a couple of months for training programs

What They Do

Draw blood from patients for testing, transfusions, or donations; label and handle specimens correctly; and keep patients comfortable during the procedure.

Why someone might consider this career

It's among the fastest hands-on healthcare entries, with a clear training path and a very people-focused day.

Work Environment

Hospital / clinicLabMobile blood drives

The Basics

Training time

Weeks to a couple of months for training programs

Training cost

Information pending verification

Education commonly associated with entry

Information pending verification

Certification / licensing

Certification (e.g., NHA, ASCP) is common and some states require it — requirements vary by state and employer. Verify your state's rules before choosing training.

Physical demand

Moderate

People interaction

High

Remote potential

Low

Self-employment potential

Low

Typical Training Path

  1. 1Complete a phlebotomy training program with supervised draws
  2. 2Check whether your state requires certification
  3. 3Prepare for and pass a certification exam if pursuing one
  4. 4Apply for hospital, lab, or donation-center roles
  5. 5Consider adjacent clinical careers as you gain experience

A common route — actual requirements vary by program, employer, and state.

Certification & licensing note: Certification (e.g., NHA, ASCP) is common and some states require it — requirements vary by state and employer. Verify your state's rules before choosing training.

A course certificate, a professional certification, and a state license are three different things — completing training alone never makes you licensed or certified.

Licensing & requirements in your state

Requirements for this career vary by jurisdiction. We never assume your location — pick your state to check.

Select your state to see requirements.

Related Careers

Last verified: September 26, 2026

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Career requirements, licensing rules, education requirements, costs, and employment conditions can change. Verify official requirements with the appropriate licensing agency, credentialing body, employer, or educational institution. Lucky Finds does not guarantee admission, certification, licensure, employment, salary, or career outcomes.