CMA vs RMA vs CCMA: Explaining The Difference for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Choosing between CMA, RMA, and CCMA can feel overwhelming when the names sound alike but lead to different healthcare roles. For someone fresh out of high school or shifting careers, the differences aren’t always clear—and that confusion can delay the start of a promising path in allied health.

In 2025, about 70.9% of allied health employers require or prefer certified applicants, making the decision more important than ever. This article breaks down each certification, explains who it’s best for, and offers expert-backed advice to help readers make a confident and informed career choice.

Key Things You Should Know About CMA, RMA, and CCMA

CMA and RMA paths take 9 months to 2 years, while CCMA can be earned in as little as 4 months depending on the program.
Certification exam fees range from $120 to $250, with additional costs for prep materials. Financial aid or employer reimbursement is often available.
All three certifications lead to roles in hospitals, clinics, or outpatient centers, with average salaries around $42,000 and steady job growth projected through 2033.

What is the difference between CMA, RMA, and CCMA certifications?
What are the education and eligibility requirements for each certification?
How long does it take to become a CMA, RMA, and CCMA?
How do you apply and prepare for the CMA, RMA, and CCMA exams?
How much do the CMA, RMA, and CCMA certifications cost?
What are the career opportunities for CMA, RMA, and CCMA holders?
How Does Medical Assistant Training Cost Impact Certification Decisions?
Can these certifications facilitate a transition into healthcare administration roles?
How can further education accelerate career advancement in healthcare administration?
Which Certification Best Aligns with My Career Goals?
What is the average salary for CMA, RMA, and CCMA certified professionals?
What continuing education options are available after certification?
What are the challenges of each certification?
Other Things You Should Know About CMA, RMA, and CCMA

What is the difference between CMA, RMA, and CCMA certifications?

The CMA, RMA, and CCMA certifications differ primarily in their issuing organizations, eligibility requirements, and exam formats. These distinctions are similar to other healthcare credential comparisons, such as CPC vs CCS, where coding professionals must choose between certifications based on career focus—outpatient versus inpatient coding.

CMA (Certified Medical Assistant)

The CMA (Certified Medical Assistant) certification is one of the most widely recognized credentials for medical assistants. It offers professionals the skills and qualifications needed to advance in the healthcare industry or pursue pathways like MA to LPN transitions.

Issued by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).
Requires graduation from an accredited program.
The exam covers various topics, including clinical and administrative duties.

RMA (Registered Medical Assistant)

The RMA (Registered Medical Assistant) certification provides medical assistants with a respected credential recognized for focusing on clinical and administrative expertise in healthcare settings.

Issued by American Medical Technologists (AMT).
Eligibility includes graduation from an accredited program or a combination of education and work experience.
Focuses on both clinical and administrative tasks.

CCMA (Certified Clinical Medical Assistant)

The CCMA (Certified Clinical Medical Assistant) certification highlights a medical assistant's proficiency in clinical skills, focusing on hands-on patient care within healthcare environments.

Issued by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
Primarily focuses on clinical skills.
Requires passing a clinically based exam.

Each certification has distinct qualifications, and while they all enable medical assistants to pursue healthcare roles, some employers may prefer one certification over the others depending on their specific needs. The CMA is often seen as more comprehensive, while the RMA and CCMA can be ideal for professionals with more targeted career goals. Additionally, transitioning between certifications may require further education or work experience.

As healthcare roles continue to grow, certification remains a key factor in securing positions in this expanding field.

What are the education and eligibility requirements for each certification?

You must meet specific education and eligibility criteria to qualify for the CMA, RMA, or CCMA certifications.

Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)

To become a CMA, you 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).

Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)

For the RMA certification, you can either graduate from an accredited medical assisting program or have one year of work experience in the field. The certification exam is offered by the American Medical Technologists (AMT).

Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)

To be eligible for the CCMA certification, you must have a high school diploma or GED. You can qualify by completing a medical assisting training program or by having one year of work experience in the field. The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) administers the certification exam.

In 2025, approximately 70.9% of allied health employers require or encourage certification, highlighting its importance in the job market. While a high school diploma or GED is the minimum requirement, completing a formal medical assisting program can enhance your qualifications and job prospects.

How long does it take to become a CMA, RMA, and CCMA?

Earning each certification takes different amounts of time, depending on your chosen path and prior experience. The total time includes training, exam preparation, and application processing.

Certified Medical Assistant (CMA): You must complete an accredited medical assisting program, which usually takes 9 months to 2 years. This includes both classroom instruction and clinical training. After graduation, you must pass the CMA exam administered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).
Registered Medical Assistant (RMA): If you choose the education route, the program duration is similar to the CMA path. The program must consist of at least 720 hours of instruction, including 160 hours of externship.
Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA): Training programs for CCMA certification typically take 4 to 12 months to complete.

How do you apply and prepare for the CMA, RMA, and CCMA exams?

To apply and prepare for the CMA, RMA, or CCMA exams, you must follow a step-by-step process including registration, study planning, and test preparation.

1. Choose your certification exam

Decide whether you want to take the CMA (AAMA), RMA (AMT), or CCMA (NHA) exam based on your goals and job requirements. Each certification has a slightly different focus: CMA emphasizes clinical knowledge, RMA includes more administrative skills, and employers often prefer CCMA in fast-paced clinics.

2. Create an online account and apply

Visit the official website of the certification body:

CMA via AAMA
RMA via AMT
CCMA via NHA

Fill out the application, upload required documents, and pay the exam fee.

3. Schedule your exam

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive instructions on scheduling your test at an authorized testing center or online (depending on the provider).

4. Understand the exam topics

Each exam covers anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, patient care, and safety. Reviewing the official content outlines can help you know what do you learn in a medical assistant course and focus your studies accordingly.

5. Use prep tools and practice exams

Enroll in a test prep course or use free and paid practice tests. Students who use structured prep tools score higher than those who only self-study.

6. Make a study plan

Most students study 10–15 hours weekly for 2–3 months. The average preparation time across all three exams is 120–140 hours.

7. Practice for test conditions

Reduce test anxiety by simulating real exam conditions. Use full-length timed practice tests and apply relaxation techniques like deep breathing and focused breaks.

How much do the CMA, RMA, and CCMA certifications cost?

Depending on the certifying organization, the total cost for CMA, RMA, and CCMA certifications typically ranges from $120 to $160. These fees cover the exam, but additional expenses like study materials or retake fees may apply. For those exploring related career paths in medical billing and coding, it's also worth researching how to become CPC certified, as the cost and preparation process can differ significantly from medical assistant certifications.

Exam Fee Breakdown

CMA (AAMA): $125 for members; $250 for non-members.
RMA (AMT): $120.
CCMA (NHA): $155.

These fees are generally paid up front during the application process. Some programs may include the exam fee in their tuition, but verifying this with the institution is essential.

Additional Costs

Beyond the exam fee, candidates might incur costs for study guides, practice exams, or preparatory courses. These resources can range from $50 to $300, depending on the provider. Retake fees, if applicable, are usually similar to the initial exam fee.

Financial Assistance

Financial aid options are available for those pursuing medical assistant certifications. Programs like the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) offer grants for vocational training, which can cover certification costs. Additionally, some schools provide payment plans, allowing students to pay the certification fee in installments.

Employer Reimbursement

Many employers recognize the value of certified medical assistants and may offer reimbursement for certification expenses. Companies such as Amazon, Walmart, and Target have programs that cover education and certification costs for eligible employees. It's advisable to consult with your employer's HR department to explore available reimbursement options.

Investing in a medical assistant certification enhances your credentials and can lead to increased job opportunities and potential salary growth. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, certified medical assistants often have better employment prospects than their non-certified counterparts.

What are the career opportunities for CMA, RMA, and CCMA holders?

Certified Medical Assistants (CMA), Registered Medical Assistants (RMA), and Certified Clinical Medical Assistants (CCMA) have a wide range of career opportunities in various healthcare settings. These certifications are recognized across the United States, allowing holders to work in hospitals, private practices, outpatient care centers, and more.

Employment Distribution and Demand

Career opportunities for CMA, RMA, and CCMA holders span various healthcare settings, and significant demand is expected to continue growing in the coming years.

Physicians' offices: 62.06% of medical assistants work here
Hospitals: 16.7%
Offices of other health practitioners: 8.7%
Outpatient care centers: 10.16%

The medical assistant field is growing rapidly, with demand expected to increase by 15% from 2023 to 2033, driven by an aging population and a focus on preventive care.

Employer Preferences

Some employers may prefer a specific certification based on their practice’s needs or patient demographics.

Regional Employment Trends

Medical assistants are employed across the U.S., with higher concentrations in states like California, Texas, and Florida. Even nonmetropolitan areas like East Kentucky and South Central Kentucky show high employment levels.

The role is expanding, with many employers reporting more medical assistant responsibilities, including phone screenings and triage.

For those wondering how to get a medical assistant job with no experience, starting with certification such as the CMA, RMA, or CCMA can significantly improve your chances, as many employers prioritize certified candidates even for entry-level positions.

How Does Medical Assistant Training Cost Impact Certification Decisions?

Choosing a certification is not only about passing an exam—it also requires a clear understanding of the financial commitment involved. Candidates should evaluate factors such as tuition fees, additional study materials, and potential retake expenses. Balancing these costs against future salary prospects and job stability is essential when planning a career in allied health. It is advisable to compare program expenses and funding options to make an informed decision about your educational investment. For a detailed look at program affordability, consider exploring our article on medical assistant training cost.

Can these certifications facilitate a transition into healthcare administration roles?

While CMA, RMA, and CCMA credentials emphasize clinical and administrative competencies, they also lay the groundwork for advancement into healthcare leadership. Professionals can build on their certifications by developing management skills that align with operational responsibilities. Some graduates choose to further enhance their expertise by enrolling in an online healthcare administration program, which offers structured pathways to roles in healthcare management. This strategic approach helps bridge clinical experience with administrative decision-making, meeting the growing demand for leaders who understand both patient care and business operations.

How can further education accelerate career advancement in healthcare administration?

For certified professionals aiming to transition into leadership roles, strategic further education can be a pivotal differentiator. Enhancing clinical expertise with management and administrative skills positions candidates for broader responsibilities within healthcare organizations. Pursuing an accelerated online bachelor's degree in healthcare administration equips professionals with critical insights in budgeting, policy development, and strategic planning. This additional credential not only validates a commitment to career growth but also meets employers' increasing demand for leaders who bridge operational efficiency with quality patient care.

Which Certification Best Aligns with My Career Goals?

When deciding on a certification pathway, evaluate your specific career interests, the focus between clinical and administrative skills, and the long-term growth prospects in your target work environment. Analyze how each certification’s exam structure, maintenance requirements, and associated costs mesh with your career strategy. Additionally, assess local market trends and employer demands to ensure your choice supports both immediate job opportunities and future leadership roles. For those looking to broaden their scientific foundation alongside a certification, consider integrating complementary studies, such as the cheapest biochemistry degree online, to enhance your technical expertise without diverting from your core career objectives.

What is the average salary for CMA, RMA, and CCMA certified professionals?

As of 2023, certified medical assistants (CMAs, RMAs, and CCMAs) earn an average annual salary of about $42,000, or approximately $20.19 per hour, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. While salary levels are similar across these credentials, factors such as experience, location, and workplace setting can influence earnings.

Salary by Experience

Salaries for certified medical assistants can vary based on experience, with pay increasing significantly as professionals gain more years in the field.

Entry-level (less than 1 year): Around $19.12 per hour
3–5 years of experience: Approximately $23.52 per hour
10+ years of experience: About $25.11 per hour

Geographic Impact on Salary

Salaries can vary widely by location:

Alaska: Median annual salary of $52,530
Alabama: Median annual salary of $34,050

Additional Compensation

Overtime pay can further boost earnings, with eligible employees earning at least 1.5 times their regular hourly rate for hours worked beyond 40 per week.

Salary Growth

The healthcare industry plans a median salary increase of 5.5% for medical assistants in 2025, reflecting the increasing demand for these roles.

Those interested in alternative healthcare roles might also wonder how long does it take to be a medical coder, as the timeline and salary expectations can differ from those of medical assistants.

What continuing education options are available after certification?

After earning a CMA, RMA, or CCMA certification, continuing education (CE) is essential to maintain your credential and grow in healthcare. If you're wondering what school offers the best online medical assistant programs, researching accredited institutions offering flexible online courses can help you find the right fit for further education or skill advancement.

CE Requirements by Certification

Continuing education is crucial for maintaining your certification and advancing your career as a medical assistant. Each credential has its own specific requirements.

CMA (AAMA): Requires 60 continuing education units (CEUs) every five years. These must include administrative, clinical, and general content areas.
RMA (AMT): Requires 30 CEUs every three years to keep the credential active.
CCMA (NHA): Requires 10 CEUs every two years. NHA offers an online library to meet these requirements easily.

Career Growth Through Additional Credentials

Many certified medical assistants surpass basic CE requirements by earning extra certifications in related fields. This practice, known as credential stacking, can lead to more specialized roles.

Common certifications added after initial credentialing:

Phlebotomy Technician
EKG Technician
Medical Billing and Coding

Short courses and micro-credentials are also popular for skill upgrades. Topics often include electronic health records, telehealth, or patient communication. Some employers support these efforts through tuition aid or internal training programs.

What are the challenges of each certification?

Each medical assistant certification—CMA, RMA, and CCMA—presents unique challenges related to exam difficulty, recertification requirements, and regional recognition. Understanding these differences is essential not only for exam prep but also for showcasing qualifications effectively on a medical assistant skills resume.

Exam Difficulty and Pass Rates

Understanding the exam difficulty and pass rates helps you prepare better for CMA, RMA, and CCMA certification.

CMA (AAMA): The CMA exam is comprehensive, covering both clinical and administrative competencies. Candidates must pass within three attempts over three years; otherwise, they must wait 12 months before retesting.
RMA (AMT): As of 2021, the RMA exam had a pass rate of 73%. Candidates are allowed up to four attempts, with a mandatory 45-day waiting period between each.
CCMA (NHA): To pass the CCMA exam, you must score a minimum of 390 out of 500, which equates to correctly answering 78% of the questions.

Regional Recognition and Employer Preferences

While all three certifications are nationally recognized, employer preferences can vary by region and healthcare setting. Some employers may favor one certification over others based on specific job requirements or institutional affiliations.

As you evaluate your career options, an LPN and medical assistant job comparison is valuable in understanding the differences in responsibilities, job duties, and career growth. This will help you decide whether the path of a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or a medical assistant best aligns with your professional goals.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say about CMA, RMA, and CCMA

The CMA certification opened up job opportunities for me in a healthcare setting. It’s rewarding to be trusted with patient care tasks while knowing that I’m continually refining my skills. I feel secure in my role, and the certification has provided me with valuable career stability. – Elysia

Becoming an RMA helped me move forward in my career. It allowed me to work in different healthcare environments, including clinics and hospitals. The certification gave me the credibility I needed to grow within the field and pursue my interest in healthcare. – Casey

I chose to pursue the CCMA because I wanted to work directly with patients in a clinical setting. My work feels purposeful, knowing it contributes to patient care. The skills I’ve developed through this certification have made me more confident in my job. – Oliver

Key Findings

In 2025, 70.9% of allied health employers will require or encourage certification, highlighting its significance in the job market.
Physicians' offices employ 62.06% of medical assistants, making it the largest employment setting for certified professionals.
The medical assistant field is projected to grow by 15% from 2023 to 2033, driven by factors such as an aging population and increased focus on preventive care.
Entry-level certified MAs earn about $19.12/hour, while those with 10+ years of experience earn around $25.11/hour.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for certified medical assistants (CMA, RMA, CCMA) is about $42,000, or approximately $20.19 per hour, as of 2023.

Other Things You Should Know About CMA, RMA, and CCMA

Are CMA, RMA, and CCMA certifications recognized in all 50 states?

CMA, RMA, and CCMA certifications are recognized across all 50 states. While no state mandates certification for medical assistants, employers nationally acknowledge and value these credentials. For instance, Washington is the only state that requires medical assistants to be licensed or certified, but it accepts all three certifications. Employers nationwide often prefer certified medical assistants, as they demonstrate a commitment to professional standards and enhance job prospects.

How do certifications align with future tech and digital skills?

CMA, RMA, and CCMA certifications are adapting to include essential digital competencies for modern healthcare. These certifications now emphasize skills in electronic health records (EHR), telemedicine, and digital communication. Proficiency in EHR systems is crucial, with 78% of healthcare employers prioritizing it. Medical assistants are also expected to be adept with remote patient monitoring devices and predictive analytics tools. This evolution ensures that certified professionals are equipped to meet the technological demands of contemporary healthcare environments.

Are there union or labor protections for certified MAs?

Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs) do not have universal union representation, but protections vary by employer and state. Some CMAs are part of unions like UFCW 3000, which offers standard union protections, including grievance processes and benefits safeguards. In California, legislation such as SB 525 has increased minimum wages for healthcare workers, benefiting many MAs. However, most MAs are considered unlicensed personnel, and their labor protections depend on individual workplace policies and state laws.

Which certification works best for specialty clinics or departments?

The Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) credential is often preferred for roles in specialty clinics due to its strong clinical focus. CCMAs are trained in administering injections, performing EKGs, and assisting with minor procedures, making them suitable for cardiology, dermatology, and aesthetics departments. While CMAs and RMAs also possess clinical competencies, the CCMA's emphasis on hands-on patient care aligns well with the demands of specialized medical settings.