What topics are covered on the CMA (AAMA) certification exam?

The CMA (AAMA) exam covers three major content areas: General Knowledge (anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, professionalism), Administrative Knowledge (scheduling, medical records, insurance processing, coding), and Clinical Knowledge (infection control, patient intake, specimen collection, pharmacology, diagnostic testing). Each section is weighted differently, with clinical knowledge typically carrying the largest portion of the exam.

How many questions are on the CMA (AAMA) exam?

The CMA (AAMA) certification exam contains 200 multiple-choice questions, of which 180 are scored and 20 are pretest items that do not count toward your final score. You will not know which questions are pretest items. The exam is administered via computer at Prometric testing centers, and you are given 160 minutes to complete all questions.

Who is eligible to take the CMA (AAMA) certification exam?

To sit for the CMA (AAMA) exam, you must be a graduate of a medical assisting program accredited by CAAHEP or ABHES. Recent graduates can apply within 12 months of completing their program. Nonrecent graduates who completed an accredited program may also be eligible but must meet additional continuing education requirements before testing.

How do I register for the CMA (AAMA) certification exam?

Registration is completed online through the AAMA website at aama-ntl.org. You must submit an application, provide proof of graduation from a CAAHEP- or ABHES-accredited program, and pay the exam fee. Once approved, you receive authorization to schedule your test appointment at a Prometric testing center of your choice within a 90-day testing window.

How much does the CMA (AAMA) exam cost?

The CMA (AAMA) exam fee is $250 for AAMA members and $300 for non-members. AAMA membership is available separately and provides a discount on the exam fee along with other benefits. If you need to retake the exam, you must pay the full application fee again. Some employers and training programs offer tuition reimbursement that may cover exam costs.

What is the best way to prepare for the CMA (AAMA) exam?

Start by reviewing the CMA (AAMA) Content Outline published on the AAMA website, which details every testable topic. Use a combination of practice tests, flashcards, and study guides that align with the three exam domains. Focus extra time on your weakest areas, particularly clinical procedures and medical terminology. Many candidates find that taking timed practice exams helps build the stamina needed for the 160-minute test.

Can I retake the CMA (AAMA) exam if I do not pass?

Yes, you can retake the CMA (AAMA) exam if you do not achieve a passing score. There is a 90-day waiting period between attempts, and you must submit a new application with the full exam fee for each retake. There is no limit on the number of times you can retake the exam, though you must remain eligible under AAMA's current education requirements.

How long is the CMA (AAMA) certification valid before it expires?

The CMA (AAMA) certification is valid for 60 months (five years) from the date you pass the exam. To maintain your credential, you must recertify before it expires either by retaking the exam or by completing 60 continuing education units across the three content areas. At least 30 of those units must be from AAMA-approved continuing education programs.

AAMA Certification Verification 7 Essential Tips to Know

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AAMA - American Association of Medical Assistants Certified By Dr. Sarah MitchellApr 24, 202612 min read

AAMA Certification Verification 7 Essential Tips to Know

In the competitive healthcare industry, obtaining and verifying your American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) certification is crucial for career advancement. Whether you're a newly certified medical assistant or seeking to verify your credentials, understanding the AAMA certification verification process can save you time and prevent potential employment complications. This comprehensive guide provides seven essential tips to help you navigate the AAMA certification verification system successfully. From understanding certification requirements to maintaining your credentials, these insights will ensure your professional qualifications remain valid and easily accessible to potential employers.

If you are preparing for medical assisting credentials, you may also benefit from reviewing the AACC practice test to strengthen your clinical chemistry knowledge.

Those interested in broadening their technical certifications should also consider taking the A2L practice test to evaluate their readiness in related assessment areas.

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Conclusion

Navigating the AAMA certification verification process doesn't have to be complicated when you understand the essential tips and procedures. From thorough preparation using practice exams to maintaining your certification through continuing education, each step contributes to your professional success as a medical assistant. Remember that your AAMA certification represents a significant professional achievement that demonstrates your commitment to excellence in patient care and medical assisting practices.

By staying informed about verification procedures, maintaining accurate portal access, and keeping your certification current through timely recertification, you ensure that your credentials remain valuable throughout your career. Whether you're preparing for your initial certification exam or managing ongoing professional development requirements, these seven tips provide the foundation for successful credential management. Invest in your professional development, utilize available resources, and maintain open communication with the AAMA to maximize the value of your certification in the competitive healthcare marketplace.

What Is the AAMA Certification Exam?

The AAMA (American Association of Medical Assistants) administers the CMA (AAMA) certification exam, which is the gold standard credential for medical assistants in the United States. The exam covers 200 multiple-choice questions across four content areas: General, Administrative, Clinical, and Communication. Passing the CMA (AAMA) exam demonstrates that a medical assistant has met nationally recognized standards of competency and is qualified to work in ambulatory healthcare settings.

AAMA Exam Eligibility Requirements

To sit for the CMA (AAMA) exam, candidates must have graduated from a CAAHEP- or ABHES-accredited medical assisting program. Recent graduates can apply within 12 months of completing their program, while previously certified CMAs must meet specific recertification or reexamination requirements set by the AAMA.

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About the Author

Dr. Sarah MitchellRN, MSN, PhD

Registered Nurse & Healthcare Educator

Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing

Dr. Sarah Mitchell is a board-certified registered nurse with over 15 years of clinical and academic experience. She completed her PhD in Nursing Science at Johns Hopkins University and has taught NCLEX preparation and clinical skills courses for nursing students across the United States. Her research focuses on evidence-based exam preparation strategies for healthcare certification candidates.