Best Phlebotomy Schools in Washington

Starting a career in phlebotomy is one of the fastest ways to enter the healthcare field in Washington.
Training is short, the work is in demand, and you'll play a direct role in patient care.

Choosing the right school is the first step to getting certified and landing a job.
Here's what to know and where to train.

Phlebotomy Requirements in Washington

Washington does not issue a state phlebotomy license, but most employers expect you to complete:

1. A state-approved or accredited training program.
2. Hands-on experience drawing blood on live patients.
3. A national certification exam from organizations like:
   • National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
   • American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)

Note: Always confirm employer requirements. Some hospitals in Washington only hire nationally certified applicants.

Steps to Become a Phlebotomist in Washington

Follow these steps to get job-ready:

1. Graduate high school or earn a GED.
2. Choose an accredited phlebotomy program from the list below.
3. Complete classroom and clinical hours (often 4-12 weeks).
4. Pass a national certification exam.
5. Apply for jobs in hospitals, clinics, or labs.

Best Phlebotomy Training Programs in Washington

The programs below are recognized for quality training, experienced instructors, and solid job placement support.

Seattle Central College - Seattle

Offers a concentrated phlebotomy certificate program with both classroom sessions and supervised blood draws.
Prepares graduates for national certification exams.

Clark College - Vancouver

Known for small class sizes and strong local healthcare employer partnerships.
Students complete clinical rotations in real patient care settings.

Bellingham Technical College - Bellingham

Provides a short-term training program ideal for those seeking quick entry into healthcare.
Includes practice in lab safety and infection control.

Yakima Valley College - Yakima

Focuses on practical skills with significant hands-on training hours.
Graduates are prepared to work in hospitals, physician offices, and diagnostic labs.

Renton Technical College - Renton

Runs multiple sessions per year to fit different schedules.
Features modern lab facilities and partnerships with regional medical centers.

What to Look for in a Phlebotomy School

When comparing schools, focus on:

• Accreditation - Choose programs recognized by national certification bodies.
• Clinical practice hours - More live draws mean better skill confidence.
• Certification preparation - Many schools cover exam fees or include prep classes.
• Job placement assistance - Schools with strong employer connections simplify entry into the workforce.
• Class size - Smaller groups often mean more one-on-one training.

Training Program Length in Washington

Here's a quick reference for how long training usually takes:

Tip: If you want to start working quickly, a short-term certificate is your best option.

Certification Exams Commonly Accepted in Washington

Most employers in Washington accept these national credentials:

• Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) - National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
• Phlebotomy Technician (PBT) - American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
• Registered Phlebotomy Technician (RPT) - American Medical Technologists (AMT)

Each has slightly different testing requirements and fees.
Visit their websites for the latest certification rules.

Job Outlook for Phlebotomists

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for phlebotomists is expected to grow much faster than average over the next decade.
Healthcare facilities, blood banks, and diagnostic laboratories continue to have steady demand for skilled technicians.

Safety and Compliance

Working with blood samples comes with safety rules you must follow.

OSHA requires training in bloodborne pathogen standards before you handle human blood in a lab or clinical setting.

This includes proper use of gloves, sharps disposal containers, and procedures for cleaning spills.

Choosing Your Path

Phlebotomy can be a stand-alone career or a starting point for other healthcare jobs.
Many people use it as a way to gain experience before moving into:

• Medical assisting
• Nursing
• Laboratory technology

If you enjoy patient contact and want a role that supports the medical team, phlebotomy is worth considering.

Final Steps

Here's what to do next:

1. Contact at least two schools from the list above.
2. Ask about start dates, tuition, and clinical sites.
3. Confirm that their program prepares you for the national certifications accepted by Washington employers.
4. Enroll and complete your training.
5. Schedule your national exam as soon as you finish.

Starting soon can mean you're certified and working in just a few months.

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