Phlebotomist (Phlebotomist)

Phlebotomists draw blood for tests, research or donations, and help patients who are nervous about needles.
U.S. median pay
$21.75/hr
$45,230/yr
Projected growth
+6.8%
2025–35
Openings per year
18,000
average, 2025–35
Typical education
Postsecondary nondegree award

BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025; BLS Employment Projections, 2025–35.

How people get started

Typically a postsecondary certificate program that usually takes less than 1 year. BLS: How to become one

Licensing in one line

Rules vary by state. Some states issue a state credential, for example California, Louisiana and Washington, and many employers prefer professional certification.

Pay

What phlebotomists earn

Pay in every state

U.S. median hourly pay · BLS May 2025

$21.75

an hour · $45,230 a year

10th
$17.20
25th
$18.36
Median
$21.75
75th
$23.53
90th
$28.26

Hourly pay range: 10th percentile $17.20/hr, median $21.75/hr, 90th percentile $28.26/hr.

Schools

Programs that lead here

All schools content
Phlebotomy programsUsually less than 1 year. Postsecondary certificate.Accreditation: NAACLS

Licensing

Licensing and verification

Find your state's board

Rules vary by state. Some states issue a state credential, for example California, Louisiana and Washington, and many employers prefer professional certification.

“States may require that phlebotomists complete an accredited training program, have a license or certification, or meet other requirements.” BLS

California

Full California guide: boards, lookups and key requirements. California Phlebotomist licensing

Clinical rotations

For students

Your first clinical rotationThe checklist, from documents to day one.Licensing examsWhich exam you'll take after graduating.From student to first shiftBoard application to first paid shift.

Working with SHIFTit

SHIFTit connects healthcare facilities with SHIFTerz directly. See which roles and places SHIFTit works with today.

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Sources

Checked against these sources on Oct 1, 2026.