What is the passing score for the PCT certification exam?

The CPCT/A exam administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) requires a scaled score of 390 out of 500 to pass. The scaled scoring method accounts for question difficulty, so there is no fixed percentage of correct answers needed. Most candidates receive their preliminary pass or fail result immediately after completing the computer-based test.

What are the eligibility requirements to take the PCT exam?

To sit for the NHA CPCT/A exam, candidates must have a high school diploma or GED and have completed a PCT training program or have one year of supervised patient care experience. Military training in a relevant healthcare role also qualifies. Candidates must be at least 18 years old and provide documentation of their education or work experience during registration.

How do I register for the PCT certification exam?

Registration for the CPCT/A exam is done through the National Healthcareer Association website at nhanow.com. You create an account, select a testing location or choose the remote proctoring option, and pay the exam fee of approximately $155. Many PCT training programs include a voucher that covers the exam cost, so check with your school before purchasing separately.

How long is the PCT certification exam?

The NHA CPCT/A exam allows 2 hours and 20 minutes to complete all 120 scored and 20 pretest questions. That gives you roughly one minute per question on average. There are no scheduled breaks during the exam, so manage your time carefully and flag difficult questions to revisit if the testing platform allows it.

Can I take the PCT certification exam online?

Yes, the NHA offers a live remote proctoring option for the CPCT/A exam. You take the test on your own computer while a proctor monitors you via webcam and screen sharing. You need a quiet private room, a stable internet connection, a working webcam and microphone, and a government-issued photo ID. The exam content and time limit are identical to the in-person version.

How long is the PCT certification valid, and how do I renew it?

The NHA CPCT/A certification is valid for two years from the date you pass the exam. To renew, you must complete 10 continuing education credits within your certification cycle and pay a renewal fee of approximately $129. Acceptable CE activities include online courses, workshops, and college coursework related to patient care, phlebotomy, or EKG.

What happens if I fail the PCT certification exam?

If you do not pass the CPCT/A exam, you can retake it after a waiting period. The NHA requires a minimum 30-day wait before your first retest and recommends focused study on your weakest content areas, which are identified in the score report. Each retake requires paying the full exam fee again. There is no limit on the number of attempts.

What is the difference between PCT certification from NHA and AMCA?

The NHA offers the CPCT/A credential, which is the most widely recognized PCT certification and covers patient care, phlebotomy, and EKG skills in one exam. The AMCA offers a separate Patient Care Technician certification with a similar scope but less employer recognition nationally. Most hospitals and healthcare systems prefer or require the NHA CPCT/A, so verify which credential your target employer accepts before registering.

Patient Care Technician Test 2026

Get ready for your Patient Care Technician certification. Practice questions with step-by-step answer explanations and instant scoring.

Patient Care Technician Test By Dr. Sarah MitchellMay 7, 202657 min read

⏱️2 HoursTime Limit

📝100Questions

✅78%Pass Rate

💵$160Exam Fee

Note: The Patient Care Technician certification (CPCT/A) offered by the NHA is widely recognized. This guide focuses on preparing for the standard 100-question exam format used by major certifying bodies.

Patient Care Technician - Patient Care Technician Test study guide

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PCT Exam Flashcards

Quick review for the Patient Care Technician certification exam

🩺What is the normal range for adult pulse rate?

The normal resting pulse rate for adults is 60 to 100 beats per minute.

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🩸What is phlebotomy?

Phlebotomy is the practice of drawing blood from patients for medical testing or donation.

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🧼What is the first step in infection control?

Proper hand hygiene is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of infection.

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⚖️What does HIPAA protect?

HIPAA protects the privacy and security of patients' medical information and health records.

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🫀What is an EKG?

An electrocardiogram (EKG) records the electrical signals in the heart to detect heart problems.

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🩹What is wound dehiscence?

Wound dehiscence is the separation of the edges of a surgical wound, often a complication of surgery.

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PCT EXAM QUESTIONS QUIZ

Patient Care Technician Study Guide

Our patient care technician certification study guide breaks down the exam into manageable sections. Whether you are focusing on patient care technician classes or self-study, these tabs cover the essentials of the NHA CPCT/A exam structure, registration, and scoring.

What is the PCT exam?	The Patient Care Technician exam, often administered by the NHA (CPCT/A), certifies that you have the skills to provide basic nursing care, perform phlebotomy, and conduct EKGs.
Who needs PCT certification?	Individuals seeking to work as a certified patient care technician in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics typically need this certification to demonstrate their competency to employers.
What are the prerequisites?	To take the patient care technician testing, you generally need a high school diploma or GED and successful completion of a patient care technician training program or relevant work experience.
Is the PCT exam hard?	The Patient Care Technician exam is challenging but manageable with proper preparation. It covers a wide range of topics including patient care, safety, and professional responsibilities.

What is the PCT exam?

The Patient Care Technician exam, often administered by the NHA (CPCT/A), certifies that you have the skills to provide basic nursing care, perform phlebotomy, and conduct EKGs.

Who needs PCT certification?

Individuals seeking to work as a certified patient care technician in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics typically need this certification to demonstrate their competency to employers.

What are the prerequisites?

To take the patient care technician testing, you generally need a high school diploma or GED and successful completion of a patient care technician training program or relevant work experience.

Is the PCT exam hard?

The Patient Care Technician exam is challenging but manageable with proper preparation. It covers a wide range of topics including patient care, safety, and professional responsibilities.

Topics: PPE use, disposal of biohazards, fire safety.
Questions: Approx. 15 questions

PCT Practice Test Questions

Prepare for the Patient Care Technician Test exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.

PCT Certified Patient Care Technician

PCT Exam Questions covering Certified Patient Care Technician. Master PCT Test concepts for certification prep.

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PCT Mock Exam on Patient Care Technician Sample. PCT Study Guide questions to pass on your first try.

PCT Assisting with ADLs and Mobility

PCT Test Prep for Assisting with ADLs and Mobility. Practice PCT Quiz questions and boost your score.

PCT Care for Cognitive and Sensory Impairm...

PCT Questions and Answers on Care for Cognitive and Sensory Impairments. Free PCT practice for exam readiness.

PCT EKG Lead Placement & Rhythm Recognition

PCT Mock Test covering EKG Lead Placement & Rhythm Recognition. Online PCT Test practice with instant feedback.

PCT Ethics and Legal Considerations

Free PCT Quiz on Ethics and Legal Considerations. PCT Exam prep questions with detailed explanations.

PCT Non-Blood Specimen Collection

PCT Practice Questions for Non-Blood Specimen Collection. Build confidence for your PCT certification exam.

PCT Nutrition, Diets, and I&O Monitoring

PCT Test Online for Nutrition, Diets, and I&O Monitoring. Free practice with instant results and feedback.

PCT OSHA and Infection Control

PCT Study Material on OSHA and Infection Control. Prepare effectively with real exam-style questions.

PCT Patient Safety, Falls, and Restraints

Free PCT Test covering Patient Safety, Falls, and Restraints. Practice and track your PCT exam readiness.

PCT Anatomy and Physiology

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PCT Assisting in a Medical Facility

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PCT General Patient Care

PCT Mock Exam on General Patient Care. PCT Study Guide questions to pass on your first try.

PCT Oxygen and Respiratory Assistance

PCT Test Prep for Oxygen and Respiratory Assistance. Practice PCT Quiz questions and boost your score.

PCT Phlebotomy – Duties and Responsibilities

PCT Questions and Answers on Phlebotomy – Duties and Responsibilities. Free PCT practice for exam readiness.

PCT Physical Examination and Vital Signs

PCT Mock Test covering Physical Examination and Vital Signs. Online PCT Test practice with instant feedback.

PCT Surgical Patient and Wound Care

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PCT Score Calculator

Total Scored Questions

150

How many questions did you answer correctly?

0105150

105 out of 150 correct

70%

Required to Pass: ~70% (Estimated)

Your Score: 105 correct✓PASS

Some employers offer patient care technician training program sponsorship, where they cover your patient care technician training cost in exchange for a work commitment.

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PCT EXAM PRACTICE TEST

PCT EXAM TEST QUESTIONS

PCT Test Day Checklist

✓Valid Government ID
✓Registration Confirmation
✓No Personal Items (Phone, Watch)
✓Arrive 30 Minutes Early
✓Review Exam Directions
✓Practice Breathing Exercises
✓Eat a Healthy Meal Beforehand
✓Positive Attitude!

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PCT Renewal Requirements

📅

Renewal Cycle Every

2 Years

📚

CE Credits

10 Credits

💵

Renewal Fee

~$180

Don't let your certification lapse! Complete your continuing education early to ensure you remain eligible for patient care technician jobs.

✅Pros

+Validates your knowledge and skills objectively
+Increases job market competitiveness
+Provides structured learning goals
+Networking opportunities with other certified professionals

❌Cons

−Study materials can be expensive
−Exam anxiety can affect performance
−Requires dedicated preparation time
−Retake fees apply if you don't pass

PCT Questions and Answers

Patient Care Technician Certification Guide: CPCT/A Exam, Tr

How to Become a Patient Care Technician: Training, Skills, a

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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.