Exam Information
The NHCO certification exam assesses your knowledge and readiness for professional practice.
Find key details on scheduling, ID requirements, and secure testing.
Exam Schedule
Exams are available on-demand through our remote proctoring system. Schedule your exam at a time that works best for you.
Required ID
A valid government-issued photo ID is required. The name on your ID must match the name on your application exactly.
Remote Proctoring
Take your exam from home or office with our secure online proctoring. Ensure a quiet, well-lit space with a reliable internet connection.
Exam Development
The NHCO’s Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) examination is developed and maintained by a dedicated team, including psychometricians, subject matter experts, and the NHCO’s General Credentialing Board. The process encompasses a comprehensive job task analysis, detailed test planning, item development, and test assembly. Additionally, the exam undergoes thorough, consistent review to ensure its effectiveness and fairness.
Exams were built using industry-accepted textbooks, including:
- Phlebotomy: Worktext and Procedures Manual, by Warekois and Robinson
- The Phlebotomy Textbook, by McCall and Tankersley
Exam Focus Areas
The NHCO tests candidates in four focus areas that are specific to phlebotomy and the healthcare industry. A percentage of questions comes from each area. The chart shows how the exam is divided into these categories.
| Focus Areas | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Order and Patient Verification | 15% |
| Safety Protocols | 24% |
| Communication | 7% |
| Phlebotomy Procedures | 54% |
Exam Standard Setting
To make recommendations to the NHCO on passing scores for the Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) examination form(s), the NHCO’s contracted psychometrician conducted a one-day standard-setting study with subject matter Experts. They reviewed the 100-item scored exam forms (115 total; 15 unscored items) used to conduct the standard-setting study. The standard setting methodologies included a modified Angoff, Direct Consensus, Hofstee, and Beuk. The outcome is noted within the exam specifications. This is conducted as deemed appropriate under typical national testing standards.
Exam Specifications
- Passing score: 560 or higher
- Total questions: 115, including 15 pretest questions
- Time allotment: 2 hours
- Format: Online, proctored
- Question type: Four multiple-choice options per question
Exam Specifications
- Passing score: 560 or higher
- Total questions: 115, including 15 pretest questions
- Time allotment: 2 hours
- Format: Online, proctored
- Question type: Four multiple-choice options per question
Exam Preparation
Candidates must receive a score of 560 or higher to obtain their certification. Test takers will be notified of their exam results via email within 7–10 business days.
The NHCO offers preparation materials aimed at helping you succeed. Purchasing these materials does not guarantee a successful outcome on the NHCO’s exam.
Study Tips
Study Practice Exams
Review Course Materials
Keep a Positive Mindset
Focus on Weak Areas
Create Flashcards
Rest Ahead of Exam
Exam Results
Candidates must receive a score of 560 or higher to obtain their certification. Test takers will be notified of their exam results via email within 7-10 business days.
If a candidate obtains a passing score, their high-resolution, printable digital certificate will be attached to the email. The NHCO does not print and mail physical copies of certificates.
Retesting
If candidates do not achieve a passing score on their first attempt, they may choose to retake the exam. To apply for a second exam attempt, candidates must submit an exam retake application and pay the $125 exam fee in their online account. Candidates will have 30 days from the date of purchase to submit their retake application, have it approved, and attempt the exam.
To apply for a third exam attempt, candidates must follow the same steps as listed above.
Invalid Results
Test results may be invalidated for reasons such as failure to finish the test or cheating. Candidates whose test results are deemed invalid will receive an email containing the reason for the invalidation and instructions on how to proceed.
Exam Security Policy
The NHCO's examination administration and security standards are designed to ensure that all candidates are provided the same opportunity to demonstrate abilities.
Discipline
The NHCO has a zero-tolerance cheating policy. If a candidate has been caught cheating, a notification will be sent via email. Candidates who have cheated are indefinitely banned from retaking the exam.
Individuals may have their certification revoked for various reasons including, but not limited to, fraud, unauthorized certification use, and legal offenses.
Remedial Assistance
If a third exam attempt is unsuccessful, remedial assistance is required before candidates can apply to retake the exam again. Candidates must seek remediation assistance from a state- or federally-approved training provider.
Appeals
All individuals who take the NHCO examination have the right to appeal decisions. To appeal a decision, submit an appeals request form. The NHCO will review the appeal, and the candidate will be notified of the decision via email.