How to Become a CCMA (2026 Guide)
A national credential from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) — one of the few medical assistant certifications you can qualify for without a formal training program.
The CCMA certification path
- 1Qualify via an accredited program OR 1 year of full-time supervised clinical work experience
- 2Apply through nhanow.com and submit your eligibility documentation
- 3Pass the 180-question CCMA exam at a PSI center or via remote proctoring (390/500 scaled score to pass)
- 4Recertify every 2 years via 10 CEUs or by retaking the exam
Unlike a state-issued license, there is no state registry step — you're certified nationally as soon as you pass.
Start Free Practice Test →Two ways to qualify
Path 1: Education
Graduate from a medical assisting program that is NHA-approved, or accredited by CAAHEP or ABHES.
Path 2: Work Experience
At least 1 year of full-time (~35+ hrs/week) supervised clinicalwork experience within the past 3 years — verified by an employer attestation letter. Administrative-only roles don't qualify on their own.
This is the biggest structural difference between the CCMA and the CMA (AAMA) — the CMA has no work-experience pathway at all.
Cost
Fees as of 2025 — verify current pricing at nhanow.com before you apply.
What exam day looks like
180 multiple-choice questions (150 scored, 30 unscored pretest) over 3 hours, at a PSI testing center or via remote proctoring. Most candidates finish in 90–120 minutes. Scoring is scaled from 0–500, and you need a 390 to pass.
Recertification
Your CCMA is valid for 2 years. To renew, complete 10 continuing education credits through NHA's CE Portal and pay a renewal fee (approximately $99). If your credential lapses more than a year past expiration, NHA typically requires retaking the full exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
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