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How is certification achieved?
Certification in medical transcription is accomplished by successful completion of the AAMT
certification exam. Once a candidate passes the comprehensive exam, the individual will be
recognized as a Certified Medical Transcriptionist. The CMT credential can then be used
after the individual's name on all official documents.
What is the purpose of the certification exam?
The competencybased exam is designed to assess core knowledge and skills needed to
practice medical transcription effectively in today’s healthcare environment. It is
comprehensive, jobrelated and objective.
What experience or schooling is required and recommended before taking the
exam?
The exam is completely voluntary; schooling is not required although highly recommended.
Two years of transcription experience in the acute care (or equivalent) setting is required to
take the CMT certification examination. The exam is designed to test a Level2 Medical
Transcriptionist as defined in AAMT's MT Job Description. The Job Description can be found
online at www.aamt.org under "Professional Resources."
What should I expect to know before testing?
Major Content Areas – All specialties
Medical terminology
Anatomy and physiology
Disease processes
English language and usage
Healthcare record and medicolegal issues
Proofreading and editing
For more detailed information regarding content covered in the exam, download the
"Candidate Guide" and "Exam Blueprint" from the AAMT website. You will find it listed
under "Certification."
When and where is the exam given?
The exam is given on an ongoing basis in test centers located internationally. Test centers
are chosen and maintained by Prometric. Current locations of Prometric Test Centers
offering the AAMT CMT examination may be found at www.prometric.com.
How much does it cost to take the exam?
$195 (USD) AAMT Members
$275 (USD) Nonmembers
Am I allowed to bring reference materials, my own head set, or preferred computer
equipment to the test center?
No. The objective of the CMT exam is to measure your skills and knowledge without the use
of references. Head sets are provided by the testing centers. Substitute keyboards are not
allowed, and foot pedals are not needed for this exam. The dictation is offered in short
snippets that may be reviewed and heard as many times as a candidate desires.
When will I receive my results?
Candidates will receive score reports before leaving the test center. Passing candidates will
receive certificates, CMT cards, pins, etc. after AAMT has received and processed the data
from Prometric.
What about retakes?
Retakes for the CMT exam are allowed every 6 months.
How to Apply for the Exam
STEP 1 Authorization to Test: An authorization to test letter from AAMT is required
before scheduling your exam. This letter provides an AAMT identification
number, exam code, price, and the information needed by the testing facility. To
receive one, you can fill out the form on the AAMT website or call Member
Services at 8009822182.
STEP 2 – Scheduling Your Exam: Once you have received your authorization to test letter
from AAMT, you can schedule your exam with our testing organization,
Prometric. Prometric test sites are located internationally. To schedule for the
site nearest you, contact them by phone at 8009285662 or their website at
www.prometric.com. You will need the information in your authorization letter to
schedule the exam. All exam fees are payable to Prometric at the time of
registration in US dollars.
STEP 3 – Taking the Exam: Once you arrive at the test center, you will not be allowed to
bring in any type of food, beverage, handbag, briefcase, references, etc. A locker
will be provided for your personal items. Make sure you have a current valid
governmentissued ID or driver's license. The name on the ID must match the
name used to register.
How Is The Exam Given?
The examination consists of 2 parts. The first part is the Objective Multiple Choice section
and lasts 2 hours. There is a 15minute break between the first and second part of the exam.
The second part, the Transcription Performance Section, lasts 31/2 hours. The candidate is
asked to complete a short survey once the exam has concluded.
After certification, then what?
Recertification To maintain the credential, a CMT must complete 30 hours of approved
continuing education every 3 years. For detailed information regarding
recertification, see the "CE Guidelines" on the AAMT website. Click on
"Certification" and then on "Recertification."
Do I have to be an AAMT member to become certified?
CMTs are not required to be members of AAMT. Membership is encouraged because of the
opportunities and benefits that result from professional commitment and involvement,
including the continuing education activities AAMT offers.
American Association for Medical Transcription
100 Sycamore Avenue, Modesto, CA 953540550
Toll Free: 8009822182 Direct: 2095279620 Web: www.aamt.org
0904