Cytotechnologist License and Certification

By allied health world contributing writer
Published: January, 21 2010

Is a certification exam required for cytotechs?

Cytotechnologists are required to pass a certification exam administered through the American Society for Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) in order to practice in this field. This computerized, multiple-choice exam is taken following graduation from a cytology program. After passing this exam, the CT (ASCP) credentials are awarded.

Is state licensure required for cytotechnologists?

Upon passing the ASCP certification exam, there are a handful of states that also require state licensure to practice. These states are: California, Nevada, Florida, New York, Hawaii, Rhode Island, Louisiana, Tennessee, Montana, and West Virginia. To obtain licensure, a person must submit their transcripts and fees and successfully pass another exam specific to the scope of practice for that state. Most states require licensure renewal every two years. In order to renew, typically 24 continuing medical education credits must be obtained in the two-year renewal period. Although some states do not require licensure for this field, employment settings may require continuing education units to be obtained. For instance, Quest Laboratories is a national cytology lab chain that requires its employees to earn continuing education credits regardless of the state they work in. Some hospital settings also require continuing education units.

In addition to the national certification and state licensure, cytotechs are also required to pass an annual proficiency exam due to the extremely high amount of regulation in this field. This exam is typically administered through the College of American Pathologists (CAP) Proficiency testing program. The exam is required in every state that provides pap test screening services, regardless of the setting.