Last Updated: May 12, 2026

Are you looking to become a phlebotomist in Pennsylvania? You came to the right place! Pennsylvania does not require state licensing or certification for phlebotomists, making it easier to get started in this rewarding healthcare career. However, certification is strongly recommended because the vast majority of employers prefer or require certified phlebotomists.

Pennsylvania is one of the top states for phlebotomy employment, ranking 4th in the nation with over 6,120 phlebotomists working throughout the state. As of 2026, phlebotomy jobs continue to grow at 8 percent through 2034, making this an excellent time to enter the field in Pennsylvania.

Requirements to Become a Phlebotomist in Pennsylvania

Before you can work on your phlebotomy certification, you need to meet some basic requirements:

• High school diploma or GED
• Complete a phlebotomy training program (minimum 100 hours classroom and 80 hours clinical)
• Pass a national certification exam (recommended)
• Background check and drug screening
• Current immunizations (hepatitis B, MMR, flu, etc.)
• CPR certification

Phlebotomy Schooling and Training in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has many excellent phlebotomy training programs at community colleges, vocational schools and hospitals throughout the state. Make sure to choose a program that is accredited and approved to ensure your training meets national standards.

What to expect from Pennsylvania phlebotomy programs:

• Timeline: Most programs take 4 to 8 months to complete
• Classroom hours: At least 100 hours covering anatomy, blood collection techniques, safety procedures and medical terminology
• Clinical hours: Minimum 80 hours of supervised hands on training at hospitals or labs
• Blood draws required: At least 100 successful blood samples (venipunctures and capillary punctures)

Questions to ask when choosing a program:

Is the program state-approved and accredited?
What is the total cost including books and fees?
How long does the program take to complete?
Where will I complete my clinical hours?
Does the program prepare me for national certification exams?
What is the job placement rate for graduates?
Can I attend part-time or evening classes?

Take notes as you speak to different schools. You may want to compare various programs and see which one is the best fit for you.

Phlebotomy Certification in Pennsylvania

Once you complete your phlebotomy training, you can work towards your phlebotomy certification. Although Pennsylvania does not require state certification, most employers will only hire certified phlebotomists. Certification shows employers that you have the skills and knowledge needed for the job and typically leads to higher pay.

Pennsylvania recognizes these certification agencies:

American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) – Most sought after credential
National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
American Medical Technologists (AMT)
National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)

There are many phlebotomy certification agencies, however you only need to be certified by one of them. The ASCP credential is the most recognized and preferred by Pennsylvania employers. Choose the agency that best fits your needs.

Phlebotomy Jobs in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is one of the best states for phlebotomy employment! There are a variety of places where a phlebotomist can work, keeping your career interesting and offering plenty of job opportunities.

Pennsylvania ranks 4th in the nation for phlebotomist employment with over 6,120 phlebotomists working throughout the state!

Job growth: 8 percent through 2034 (faster than average for all occupations)

Major job markets: Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Erie, Scranton and Harrisburg have the highest concentration of phlebotomy positions.

Top employers in Pennsylvania:

Penn Medicine
UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center)
HNL Lab Medicine
St. Luke’s University Health Network
Geisinger Health System
Quest Diagnostics
LabCorp

Where you can work:

Hospitals (largest employer of phlebotomists)
Medical and diagnostic laboratories
Doctor offices and clinics
Outpatient care centers
Blood donation centers
Mobile phlebotomy services
Research facilities

Need help with job hunting? Take a look at the most recent jobs available!

Phlebotomist Salary in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania offers competitive salaries for phlebotomists. The average salary for a phlebotomist in Pennsylvania is $41,168 per year or approximately $20 per hour as of 2026.

Salary range for Pennsylvania phlebotomists:

• Entry level: $35,557 per year
• Average range: $38,231 to $44,530 per year
• Top earners: $47,590+ per year
• Certified phlebotomists: $43,300 average (Philadelphia area)

Highest paying cities in Pennsylvania:

Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and the surrounding metropolitan areas tend to pay the highest salaries. Phlebotomists in these major cities can earn between $21 to $23 per hour, with some specialized positions paying even more.

What affects your salary:

• Certification: Certified phlebotomists typically earn $2,000 to $5,000 more per year
• Experience: More years on the job lead to significantly higher pay
• Location: Urban areas and major hospital systems pay more than rural areas
• Employer type: Outpatient care centers pay the most, followed by hospitals and diagnostic labs
• Shift differentials: Night shifts, weekends and holidays often come with extra pay

Remember that your salary will depend on many factors including your location, experience, certification and employer. Pennsylvania ranks 19th nationally for phlebotomist salaries, offering better than average pay compared to many other states.

Why Choose Phlebotomy in Pennsylvania?

There are many job opportunities for phlebotomists in Pennsylvania. The need for healthcare professionals continues to rise, which means the need for more phlebotomists. You have the opportunity as a phlebotomist to assist those in need while working in a fulfilling profession.

Benefits of becoming a phlebotomist in Pennsylvania:

✓ No state license required – Easier and faster to get started
✓ 4th highest employment level in the nation for phlebotomists
✓ Strong job growth – 8 percent increase through 2034
✓ Quick training – Start working in 4 to 8 months
✓ Competitive salary – Average $41,168/year, higher with certification
✓ Excellent job market – Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are major healthcare hubs
✓ Multiple employers – Penn Medicine, UPMC and many other top hospitals
✓ Career advancement – Great entry into healthcare with room to grow
✓ Job security – Healthcare is always in demand

A phlebotomy career in Pennsylvania is a wonderful decision. Pennsylvania offers excellent opportunities for phlebotomists with strong job demand, competitive salaries, world-class hospitals and no state licensing barriers. The combination of a thriving healthcare industry in cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh makes Pennsylvania an ideal place to launch and grow your phlebotomy career!