2. Certification

In Texas, there’s no state mandate for medical assistants (MAs) to hold a license; however, certification is commonly favored or mandated by employers for enhanced employment opportunities and credibility. The following are the key certifications accessible to medical assistants:

1. Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) – Also offered by the NHA, this certification focuses on the administrative tasks of a medical assistant. Eligibility includes completing an educational program or having relevant work experience.
2. Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) – Offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), this certification requires passing an exam and either completing an accredited medical assisting program or meeting specific work experience requirements. Exams are held at Prometric locations around Houston (see below).
3. Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) – Provided by the American Medical Technologists (AMT), to be eligible, candidates must graduate from an accredited program or have a certain amount of work experience, among other pathways. The RMA test is offered at Pearson VUE test centers in Houston (see locations below).
4. National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) – The National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) offers this certification. Eligibility includes graduation from an approved program, sufficient work experience, or a combination of both. The exam can be taken in-person or online and the fee is $119. In-person tests in Houston are proctored by Prometric. For more info, call the NCCT at 913-498-1243.
5. Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) – The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) offers this certification, focusing on the clinical aspects of medical assisting. Eligible candidates must complete an accredited program or have work experience in the field. The exam can be taken online or in-person at a PSI testing center. The exam fee is $119. To find an in-person test center in Houston, call the NHA at 913-498-1243.