Career roadmap
How to Become a Medical Laboratory Technician
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a medical laboratory technician, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a medical laboratory technician: (1) take biology and chemistry, (2) complete an accredited program, (3) do clinical rotations, (4) earn certification, (5) advance. Most people need about 2 years (technician) or 4 years (technologist). BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a medical laboratory technician
Take biology and chemistry
Strong science helps.
Complete an accredited program
NAACLS-accredited MLT or MLS.
Do clinical rotations
Hands-on lab training.
Earn certification
ASCP MLT or MLS.
Advance
Specialize or become a lead tech.
Education and training requirements
Technicians usually need an associate degree; technologists need a bachelor’s degree. Most employers require certification.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 2 years (technician) or 4 years (technologist) |
Certifications and licenses
- ASCP Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT): Technician certification.
- ASCP Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS): Technologist certification.
- AMT Medical Technologist: Alternative certification.
- State laboratory license: Required in some states.
Skills to build now
Start with clinical chemistry, hematology, and microbiology, and practice attention to detail and accuracy under pressure. Learning the medical laboratory technician vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Lab Assistant: Process samples.
- Medical Lab Technician: Run tests.
- Medical Laboratory Scientist: Complex testing.
- Lab Supervisor or Manager: Lead labs.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Medical Laboratory Technician training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a lab tech?
About two years for a technician.
Do lab techs need certification?
Most employers require it.
How long does it take to become a medical laboratory technician?
Most people need about 2 years (technician) or 4 years (technologist) of training. Technicians usually need an associate degree; technologists need a bachelor’s degree. Most employers require certification.
Do you need a degree to be a medical laboratory technician?
It depends on the role. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical for the combined group, but medical lab technicians usually enter with an associate degree and certification, while technologists need a bachelor’s.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-2010 (Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.