This page explains the steps, eligibility requirements, required forms, fees, and official contact information needed to pursue certification for medical assistants in Washington. Achieving your medical assistant certification in Washington is a smart move, as the national BLS predicts 12% job growth and a median annual salary of $44,200; however, Washington MAs earn a significantly higher average annual salary of $55,050, contributing to the 18,430 certified medical assistants in WA.
There are 22 medical assistant programs in Washington accredited by the CAAHEP and ABHES where you can begin your medical assistant certification.
Explore Medical Assistant Programs & Careers in Washington:
Medical Assistant Certification in Washington
Washington is unlike most other states and has its own credential system that every in-state medical assistant must adhere to.
Resources for Medical Assistant’s to get Licensed in Washington:
To legally work and be competitive as a medical assistant in Washington you will need to become certified as the state requires this. Once you have your national certification you can apply with the Washington State Department of Health to get your state license.
The American Medical Association – AMA recognizes two certifications for medical assistants, the CMA or Certified Medical Assistant and the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA). Having either certification will greatly enhance your work options and compensation.
The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) is the agency that produces the certificate providing CMA status. To earn a RMA certificate, you must follow the certificate procedure offered by American Medical Technologists (AMT). The following chart displays the requirements to earn a CMA or RMA certificate.
Certification Requirement | CMA | RMA |
|---|---|---|
| Meet 1 of the eligibility requirements. (CMA requires graduating a CAAHEP or ABHES accredited program, RMA also offers eligibility from military education, work experience and instructing.) | View Eligibility Details | View Eligibility Details |
| Submit required supporting documentation for exam application process. | Documents | Documents |
| Apply for exam and pay application fee. | Application, $125 | Application, $120 |
| Schedule your exam date. | Schedule | Schedule |
| Complete your exam. (Upon completion, the CMA exam will show whether you pass/failed immediately and RMA exams taken online will provide your actual score immediately.) | Yes | Yes |
| Wait 8-10 weeks (CMA candidates will receive official test scores at this time and RMA candidates will receive their certification.) | Yes | Yes |
| Passing CMA applicants then wait another 10 weeks after receiving scores to receive their certification and card. | Yes | No |
| You have the ability to retest if you fail for both the CMA and RMA | Retest info | Retest info |
| Continuing Education, membership fees, and recertification are required for both the CMA and RMA | Recertify info | Recertify info |
WSSMA Board Contact Info
The Washington State Society of Medical Assistants offers resources and information here on their chapter website.
Medical Assistants
Claire Michele Houghton, CMA (AAMA)
Why Be a CMA in Washington?
Learn about education and salary opportunities for medical assistants in Washington on the following pages:
- Research Washington’s Medical Assisting Programs
- Compare average Medical Assistant Salaries in Washington’s major cities
Explore Medical Assistant Programs & Careers in Washington:
