How to Become a CCMA in Illinois (2026 Guide)

How to Become a CCMA in Illinois: Step by Step

The CCMA exam and NHA eligibility rules are the same nationwide. Illinois's only state-specific layer is that there isn't one — no separate state license beyond CCMA certification.

1. 1
   Meet NHA eligibility — two real pathways

   Either graduate from an NHA-approved, CAAHEP-, or ABHES-accredited medical assisting program, or qualify through work experience: 1 year of supervised work experience in the last 3 years, or 2 years in the last 5 years, verified by an employer attestation letter. (California residents using the work-experience path need the 2-year/5-year option specifically.)
2. 2
   Pass the national CCMA exam

   Register with NHA and pay the ~$165 exam fee (this never varies by state — verify current pricing at nhanow.com). The exam is 180 multiple-choice questions (150 scored, 30 unscored pretest) over 3 hours, at a PSI test center or via remote proctoring. A scaled score of 390 (out of 500) is required to pass.
3. 3
   Check Illinois's scope-of-practice rules

   No state MA license or certification requirement. Medical assistants are not authorized to administer medications and are barred from any task requiring clinical judgment or interpretation of results.
4. 4
   Apply for your first CCMA position

   With CCMA certification in hand, you can apply to physician offices, outpatient clinics, and specialty practices. Average pay in Illinois is $19.84/hr.

Frequently Asked Questions