Best Phlebotomy Schools in California

Updated August 13, 2025

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If you want to work as a phlebotomist in California, you need the right training from an accredited program. California has stricter rules than many other states, so choosing the right school can save you time and prevent licensing delays.

Here's what you need to know and where to train.

California Phlebotomy Licensing Requirements

In California, phlebotomists must hold a California State Phlebotomy Technician Certificate issued by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). You cannot work in this role without this certificate.

The main steps are:

  1. Complete an approved training program
    The program must be approved by the CDPH. It should include both classroom instruction and hands‑on clinical training.

  2. Meet the required number of blood draws during clinicals

    • Limited Phlebotomy Technician (LPT): Skin punctures only
    • Certified Phlebotomy Technician I (CPT I): Dermal and venipuncture
    • Certified Phlebotomy Technician II (CPT II): Dermal, venipuncture, and arterial

  3. Pass an approved certification exam
    Exams are offered by national certifying organizations recognized by CDPH.

  4. Submit your application and fee to CDPH after passing the exam.

State Rule: Only graduates from a CDPH‑approved program can apply for a California State Phlebotomy Certificate. Check the state's current approved program list before enrolling.

How Long Phlebotomy Training Takes

Most full‑time programs take just a few months. Here's a general outline:

Program Type Classroom Hours Clinical Hours Total Time
LPT ~20-40 hours ~20-40 hours 2-4 weeks
CPT I ~40-80 hours ~40-80 hours 2-4 months
CPT II ~20-40 hours Additional arterial practice Varies by school

These numbers can vary. Always confirm with the school.

Best Phlebotomy Schools in California

Below is a selection of well‑known, CDPH‑approved training providers. Each offers the required classroom and clinical experience for California certification.

1. UCLA Extension - Phlebotomy Course

  • Location: Los Angeles, CA
  • Highlights: University‑affiliated program with strong clinical partnerships.
  • Certification Level: CPT I

2. Cal State East Bay - Certificate in Phlebotomy

  • Location: Hayward, CA
  • Highlights: Evening and weekend options for working students.
  • Certification Level: CPT I

3. American River College

  • Location: Sacramento, CA
  • Highlights: Affordable tuition for in‑district students; part of California Community Colleges.
  • Certification Level: CPT I

4. City College of San Francisco

  • Location: San Francisco, CA
  • Highlights: Experienced faculty, on‑campus lab facilities.
  • Certification Level: CPT I

5. Kaiser Permanente School of Allied Health Sciences

  • Location: Richmond, CA
  • Highlights: Integrated clinical rotations within Kaiser facilities.
  • Certification Level: CPT I

6. Phlebotomy Training Specialists

  • Locations: Multiple cities across California
  • Highlights: Accelerated scheduling with day, evening, and weekend classes.
  • Certification Level: CPT I and CPT II options

When comparing programs, consider:

  • Schedule flexibility if you're working
  • Class size for more instructor contact
  • Clinical site quality for better hands‑on experience
  • Exam prep and pass rates

Steps After Graduation

Finishing your program is only part of the process. Here's what comes next:

  1. Take and pass a CDPH‑recognized exam
    Common exam providers include:

    • American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
    • National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)
    • American Medical Technologists (AMT)

  2. Apply to CDPH for your license
    Submit your proof of training, clinical hours, exam results, and fees.

  3. Maintain your certification
    Renew it as required. Complete continuing education if the state mandates it.

Compliance Reminder: California can revoke certification for unethical conduct or unsafe practices. Follow all safety guidelines from OSHA when handling blood samples.

Tips for Choosing the Right School

Choosing the wrong program can lead to wasted time or the need to retrain. Keep these tips in mind:

  • Verify state approval before you sign up.
  • Ask about clinical sites-some programs require you to arrange your own.
  • Compare instructor experience-industry‑seasoned trainers can better prepare you for real‑world labs.
  • Look at student reviews for insights into program quality.
  • Confirm total costs including books, lab coats, and exam fees.

Career Outlook

Phlebotomy is a steady field. Hospitals, diagnostic labs, blood donor centers, and clinics across California employ certified phlebotomy technicians daily. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics 1, employment for phlebotomists is expected to grow faster than average through 2032.

Summary and Next Steps

If you're ready to become a phlebotomist in California:

  1. Pick a CDPH‑approved school from the state list.
  2. Complete the program and clinical hours required for your target certification level.
  3. Pass the national exam recognized by CDPH.
  4. Apply for your state license and start working.

Start by checking the CDPH list of approved phlebotomy programs. Then contact the schools that fit your schedule and budget.

A good program will not just meet the state requirements-it will prepare you to work safely and professionally on your first day.

  1. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Phlebotomists, Occupational Outlook Handbook, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/phlebotomists.htm ↩

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