How to Become a CCMA in Washington (2026 Guide)

How to Become a CCMA in Washington: Step by Step

The CCMA exam and NHA eligibility rules are the same nationwide. Washington's only state-specific layer is its own credentialing requirement.

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
   Complete Washington's Medical Assistant-Certified (MA-C)

   Washington has 5 MA credential tiers (MA-C, MA-R, MA-P, MA-H, MA-EMT); MA-C is the broadest (includes phlebotomy/IV placement) and is the one CMA- or CCMA-certified technicians apply for. Requires passing one of 5 approved national exams (CMA and CCMA both qualify) within 5 years of application, plus a 7-hour HIV/AIDS course. National certification itself does NOT need to be maintained for MA-C renewal. The fee is $115. Renewal: Every 2 years ($110 renewal), no CE required.
4. 4
   Apply for your first CCMA position

   With CCMA certification and your state credential in hand, you can apply to physician offices, outpatient clinics, and specialty practices. Average pay in Washington is $25.82/hr.

Frequently Asked Questions