Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) in Virginia
This guide outlines the steps to become a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) in Virginia, detailing a process that typically spans 8-12 weeks. It covers prerequisites, training, exams, and certification, with costs ranging from $800 to $2,500. Following this guide ensures compliance with Virginia state requirements and prepares candidates for a successful career in medical assistance.
The Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) career in Virginia offers a promising future for those interested in the healthcare sector. With a median salary of $40,240 per year and a national growth projection of 12.5% by 2034, Virginia presents a strong demand for CMAs. This growth is driven by an aging population requiring more healthcare services and the expanding scope of clinical responsibilities assigned to medical assistants. Choosing a career as a CMA in Virginia not only promises steady employment but also provides a meaningful opportunity to contribute to community health.
Virginia's unique healthcare environment enhances the appeal of becoming a CMA in the state. Unlike some states, Virginia maintains specific regulations that govern the practice of medical assistants, ensuring a standardized level of care and professionalism across the healthcare system. The state hosts a variety of major healthcare employers, including prominent hospital systems and private practices, particularly concentrated in urban centers like Richmond and Virginia Beach. These factors, combined with Virginia's diverse population, create varied opportunities for medical assistants, who must adapt to different medical settings and patient needs.
This guide will provide detailed insights into the process of becoming a Certified Medical Assistant in Virginia, from the required education and certification exams to the steps necessary for obtaining licensure. Readers will gain an understanding of salary expectations within the state and an overview of the job market, including regions with the highest demand for CMAs. Additionally, the guide will address the practical aspects of working as a CMA in Virginia, such as typical job duties and the work environment, equipping prospective CMAs with the knowledge needed to pursue this career path effectively.
Licensing Authority
Virginia Board of Medicine
In Virginia, Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs) must meet specific requirements set by the Virginia Board of Medicine. These include completion of an accredited training program, passing a recognized certification exam, and undergoing a background check.
Official Resources
Virginia Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Total Training Hours
- 200 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 140 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 60 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- CPR certification
Certification Exam
- Exam
- Certified Medical Assistant Examination
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- Varies by testing agency
How to Become a Certified Medical Assistant in Virginia
tuition $500-$2,000, exam fee $125, background check $50, application fee $50, textbooks/supplies $50, scrubs $25
Fastest Path
4-6 weeks
Typical Timeline
8-12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2,500
Verify You Meet Virginia's Prerequisites
Begin by confirming you meet the basic requirements for becoming a CMA in Virginia. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be in good health. Check your eligibility by reviewing the guidelines on the Virginia Department of Health Professions website. This initial step is crucial to ensure you do not face any surprises during the certification process.
Tip
Order your high school transcript online through Parchment.com ($15) to avoid a 2-week mail delay from your school's registrar office.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
You must undergo a background check and complete specific health screenings, including a TB test and proof of immunizations. For the background check, visit a local police department or a third-party provider that offers fingerprinting services. The Virginia State Police and FBI will process these fingerprints. Health screenings can typically be completed at your doctor's office or a local clinic.
Tip
Schedule your health screenings and fingerprinting on the same day to minimize delays.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Select a state-approved training program to ensure eligibility for the certification exam. Visit the Virginia Board of Nursing website to access a list of approved programs. Attending a non-approved program means you will not be eligible to sit for the state exam, wasting time and money. Programs typically offer a combination of classroom and clinical training, totaling 200 hours.
Tip
Consider the location, cost, and schedule of the programs to find the best fit for your needs.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Once you've chosen a program, enroll and complete the required 200 hours of training, which includes 140 classroom hours and 60 clinical hours. This training prepares you for both the practical and theoretical aspects of the CMA role. Ensure that the program provides all necessary learning materials and that you attend all sessions to meet the hour requirements.
Tip
Keep a personal log of your training hours in case of discrepancies with the program's records.
Prepare for the Competency Exam
Prepare for the Virginia State CMA Competency Exam by reviewing the study materials provided during your training. Focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. You can find additional practice tests and study guides on the National Healthcareer Association's website. This preparation is key to ensuring you pass the exam on your first attempt.
Tip
Regularly review practice test answers to identify and improve on weak areas.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
Register for the CMA Competency Exam through the official testing vendor's website. The exam consists of both written and practical sections, testing your knowledge and skills as a medical assistant. Pay the exam fee and choose a testing date and location that are convenient for you. Early registration is recommended to secure your preferred date.
Tip
Choose a testing date that gives you ample time to study and prepare.
Take and Pass the Exam
On the day of the exam, arrive early with two forms of ID and all necessary testing materials. The exam includes a written section with multiple-choice questions and a practical skills test. You will receive your results immediately after completing the exam. If you do not pass, you can reschedule for a later date, typically after a waiting period.
Tip
Get a good night's sleep before the exam and arrive early to avoid any last-minute stress.
Apply for State Certification/Registry
After passing the exam, apply for your CMA certification through the Virginia Board of Nursing. Complete the application form, attach proof of your training and exam results, and pay the application fee. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. Once approved, your name will be added to the state registry of Certified Medical Assistants.
Tip
Double-check your application for any errors to avoid delays in processing.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your CMA certification via mail. Verify your certification status on the Virginia Board of Nursing's online registry. This official listing is essential for employers to confirm your credentials. Keep your certification details handy for job applications and interviews.
Tip
Regularly check the mail and the online registry to confirm when your certification is processed.
Find Your First Job
With your certification in hand, you can start applying for CMA positions. Utilize job search websites like Indeed or LinkedIn to find openings in Virginia. Additionally, local hospitals and clinics often post job openings on their websites. Prepare your resume, highlighting your training and certification, and practice for interviews.
Tip
Tailor your resume to highlight specific skills and experiences that match the job descriptions you are applying for.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training at Nursing Homes
Some nursing homes in Virginia offer employer-sponsored training for aspiring CMAs. These programs often cover the cost of training and certification in exchange for a commitment to work at the facility for a specified period. This path can be a cost-effective way to enter the profession.
Best for: Individuals looking for a cost-effective way into the CMA profession
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Virginia Board of Nursing approved list. You will complete the program but be unable to sit for the state competency exam, wasting both your time and tuition money.
What to Expect on Exam Day
Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) Certification Exam administered by American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)
Written Test
Questions: 200
Time Limit: 160 minutes
Format: Multiple choice
Passing Score: Scaled score of 430
- • General: 28%
- • Administrative: 25%
- • Clinical: 47%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: None
Time Per Skill: N/A
The CMA exam does not include a practical skills test; it is solely a written examination.
What to Bring
- ✓ Government-issued photo ID
- ✓ AAMA exam confirmation letter
- ✓ Two number 2 pencils
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal items such as bags or purses
- ✗ Electronic devices including cell phones and smart watches
- ✗ Food or drink
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes 15 minutes. Written test is approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes.
Getting Your Results
Scores are available on the AAMA website within 8 weeks. Candidates receive results via email.
If You Don't Pass
Candidates can retake the exam 30 days after the initial test date. The cost of a retake is the same as the initial exam fee. There is no limit on the number of attempts in Virginia.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Focus on time management, aiming to spend no more than one minute per question to allow time for review.
- 2. Prioritize studying clinical tasks as they represent nearly half of the exam questions.
- 3. Use process of elimination on multiple-choice questions to narrow down choices.
- 4. Practice with sample questions available on the AAMA website to familiarize with the format and question style.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED
From previous educational institutions or relevant state education department · Varies · 2-4 weeks
Required to enroll in a CMA training program. Official transcripts may be required.
Proof of Immunizations
Personal medical records or local health department · Cost of copies, if applicable · 1-3 days
Must include MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, Tetanus, and TB test results.
CPR Certification
American Heart Association or American Red Cross · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies by course availability
Must be Healthcare Provider level certification.
Background Check
Third-party service provider or state police · Approximately $20-$50 · 1-2 weeks
Some training programs require a clean criminal record.
2During Training
Enrollment Verification
From the educational institution · Free or minimal cost for official documents · 1-3 days
Required for various externships or clinical placements.
Student ID
From the educational institution · Included in tuition or a small fee · Available upon enrollment
Needed for access to campus facilities and services.
Liability Insurance
Through the educational institution or a private provider · Varies, often included in tuition · Immediate upon payment
Required for participation in clinical rotations.
Health Insurance
Private provider or through school if offered · Varies · Varies
Proof may be required by the training program.
3For the Exam
Exam Application
American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) website · Approximately $125 for members, $250 for non-members
Must be submitted by the deadline prior to desired exam date.
Proof of Program Completion
From the educational institution · Free or minimal cost for official documents
Official transcript or certificate showing completion of an accredited CMA program.
Photo ID
State DMV or other government agency · Varies
Needed for identity verification on the day of the exam.
4For Certification
CMA Certification
Issued by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) · Included with exam fee
Mailed after passing the certification exam.
CMA Certification Card
Issued by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) · Included with certification
Carry this card as proof of certification status.
Continuing Education Records
Maintained by the certificate holder · Cost of courses varies
Required to maintain certification. Must complete 60 recertification points every 60 months.
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your name on the Virginia Board of Medicine's registry and ensure your CMA certificate is in order. Contact the certifying body if there are any discrepancies.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Virginia-specific job boards like VirginiaJobNetwork.com, healthcare-specific sites like Health eCareers, and general job sites like Indeed and LinkedIn.
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals, private clinics, and outpatient care centers are primary employers. Hospitals often offer structured training but can be high-pressure environments. Clinics may provide a slower pace with more regular hours.
Resume Tip: Highlight any clinical and administrative skills learned during training, include externships and any relevant volunteer work, and emphasize soft skills like communication and teamwork.
Interview Tip: Prepare to discuss your externship experiences, how you handle stressful situations, and your reasons for choosing a career as a CMA. Practice describing your responsibilities during your training.
Expected First-Year Salary
In Virginia, starting salaries for CMAs typically range from $28,000 to $35,000 annually, depending on location and type of employer.
Career Advancement Path
LPN
Complete a state-approved LPN program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • New CMAs often face challenges like managing a high workload, adapting to different healthcare environments, and dealing with patient emotions. Prioritizing time management and developing strong interpersonal skills can help mitigate these issues.
Certified Medical Assistant Salary in Virginia
In Virginia, Certified Medical Assistants earn a median annual salary of $40,240, which is slightly below the national median. Hourly, this equates to $19.35.
Entry Level
$33,500
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$40,240
$19.35/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$50,400
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$42,000 national · -4.2% in Virginia
Salary by Metro Area
Slightly below state median
Above state median, influenced by proximity to D.C.
Below state and national medians
Salary by Employer Type
The salary in Virginia generally aligns with the state's cost of living, which varies significantly between rural areas and urban centers like Northern Virginia.
Benefits & Compensation
Common benefits include health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans. Some employers may offer continuing education credits and flexible schedules.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth for CMAs in Virginia is expected to track closely with national trends, influenced by healthcare demand and regional economic conditions.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research typical salaries for your area and experience level.
- •Highlight relevant certifications and experience.
Job Market in Virginia
In Virginia, the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) job market is aligning with national growth trends, showing a robust demand driven by an aging population and increased healthcare services. With a national growth rate of 12.5% projected between 2024 and 2034, Virginia's rate is expected to match or slightly exceed this due to its dense population centers and extensive healthcare networks.
Top Hiring Areas
High population density and numerous healthcare facilities
State capital with steady healthcare needs
Large military and elderly population requiring ongoing medical support
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall, aligning with fiscal hiring cycles
Opportunities
- Expansion in outpatient care
- Increased roles in patient care coordination
Challenges
- High competition in metropolitan areas
- Requirement for continuous professional development and certification
Training Programs in Virginia
Virginia offers diverse Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) training programs, including community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored options.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 6 to 18 months | $2,500 to $10,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 9 to 12 months | $4,000 to $15,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Annandale, Virginia
High NCCT pass rates and extensive clinical placement options
Richmond, Virginia
Focused training with real-world application through externships
Online & Hybrid Options
Some programs offer hybrid formats combining online coursework with in-person clinical training.
How to Choose a Program
- •Consider program length and cost in relation to your career goals and financial situation.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Certified Medical Assistant program info for Virginia
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
$65
CE Hours
10 hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Medical ethics, Patient care, Medical law
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Virginia offers reciprocity for CMAs certified in other states, provided they meet Virginia's standards and have no disciplinary actions. Applicants must submit verification of their out-of-state credentials.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Proof of current active certification
- No disciplinary actions
State Agreements
All states, provided the certification meets Virginia's standards
Additional Exams
Not required if current certification meets Virginia standards
Application Process
Submit an application for licensure by endorsement, including verification of out-of-state credentials
Fees
$130
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays in processing.
Keep track of renewal dates and continuing education credits to maintain active status.
Recommended Resources
CMA Exam Preparation Study Guide
This guide includes a full review of CMA exam topics and real test questions for practice.
Medical Assistant Exam Prep
Offers a comprehensive preparation with practice tests, proven strategies, and a study plan.
Kaplan's Medical Assisting Exam Review
Provides detailed review material on all areas tested in the CMA exam, including anatomy, medical law, and patient relations.
The CMA Study Guide Edition
Covers essential topics and provides tips for passing the CMA exam, along with multiple practice tests.
Blood Pressure Cuff and Stethoscope
Essential for learning vital signs measurement, a core skill for CMAs.
Medical Manikin
Used to practice patient care procedures safely before applying skills in a clinical setting.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-12
- Virginia Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-12
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-12