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390

scaled score to pass, on a scale from 200 to 500

CPT scoring and retakes

CPT results are scaled scores from 200 to 500. You pass with a scaled score of 390 or higher.

How scoring works

  • Scaled scores from 200 to 500; you pass with 390 or higher.
  • Each exam has multiple forms; scaled scoring weights questions by difficulty so that 390 passes on every form. The cut score is set with a modified Angoff method by subject-matter-expert panels.
  • No pilot scoring period for the 2026 CPT exam.
  • Pretest items are not identified and do not affect your score.

NHA Candidate Handbook, pp.31–32 and p.43 · NHA CPT exam FAQ · NHA 2024 pass rates

When you get your results

  • Exam at your school or employer: preliminary score report immediately after the exam.
  • PSI test center or LRP: within 48 hours of completing the exam.
  • NHA's CPT page says results for online exams are posted to your account within two days of scoring.

NHA Candidate Handbook, p.32 · NHA CPT page

What the score report shows

  • Scaled score and pass/fail.
  • For each major content area (domain): Above, Near, or Below the passing standard.
  • 'N/A' for any content area with 5 or fewer questions on the exam.
  • Performance categories are ranges and do not add up to the overall result.

NHA Candidate Handbook, pp.32–33

Preliminary results are not final; using them as proof of certification is at your own risk. Scores are posted to your NHA account and are never given over the phone; the public Verification Tool lists certification status only, never scores or failed attempts.

Rescoring and appeals

  • Hand rescoring: written request within 60 days of the exam date; NHA may charge a fee; decisions are final.
  • Score appeal: NHA Appeals form within 30 days of the exam date.

NHA Candidate Handbook, p.34

Retake policy

If you fail, you may retake after a 30-day wait. You get 3 attempts, with at least 30 days between attempts. After the third attempt, each further failure requires a 1-year wait. Every retake requires re-registering and paying the full fee.

NHA Candidate Handbook, p.34

After you pass

If you pass, NHA emails you that you can print your certificate from your NHA account ('My Achievements'). The certification is valid for 2 years and expires on the date printed on the certificate. On the Employer Training and Pre-Externship routes the certificate number is assigned only after NHA receives proof of completion, and the certificate's effective date is the date NHA assigns that number.

NHA Candidate Handbook, p.31 and p.35

Facts checked on October 26, 2026 against NHA’s Candidate Handbook (updated June 1, 2026), the CPT test plan, the CPT exam FAQ and NHA’s CPT page; page numbers refer to the handbook. Rules can change: confirm with NHA before you register. Phlebotomy Tech Prep: CPT is an independent app, not made by or connected to NHA.

Sources

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