CMA - Certified Medical Assistant (AAMA) Practice Test

Candidates must graduate from a medical assisting program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). This is the primary pathway. The AAMA does not accept work experience in lieu of formal education from an accredited program.

The CMA (AAMA) is the only certification that requires graduation from a programmatically accredited postsecondary institution, emphasizing a standardized educational foundation. It is also the only credential for medical assistants that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), a widely recognized benchmark for certification program quality. While other credentials are valuable, the CMA's specific accreditation and education requirements make it uniquely recognized and often preferred by many employers, particularly in hospital settings.

The computer-based exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions, divided into three content areas: General (approximately 20%), Administrative (approximately 25%), and Clinical (approximately 55%). The questions are presented in a scenario-based format designed to test application and problem-solving skills. Candidates have 200 minutes (just over 3 hours) to complete the test, which is administered at secure, proctored testing centers.

The CMA (AAMA) credential is valid for 60 months (5 years). To maintain certification, CMAs must complete a recertification application and meet one of two pathways: 1) Retaking and passing the CMA certification exam, or 2) Earning 60 recertification points through continuing education (with a minimum of 10 points in each of the three categories: Administrative, Clinical, and General) and 30 points from AAMA-approved CEUs. This ensures certified professionals remain current in their knowledge and skills.

Certification significantly enhances career prospects. CMAs (AAMA) are often prioritized in hiring and are eligible for a wider range of positions in competitive environments like surgical centers and multi-specialty clinics. According to industry surveys, certified medical assistants frequently report higher average salaries than their non-certified peers. The credential also provides a foundation for career ladder advancement into roles such as office manager, clinical lead, instructor, or other specialized healthcare positions.