Free phlebotomy training programs are available in Houston to help you start a career in healthcare without the cost. Two notable options include:
1. SERJobs
SERJobs offers a free phlebotomy training program in Houston that prepares students to become nationally certified phlebotomy technicians. The program runs approximately 6 to 7 weeks and provides 120 hours of hands-on and theoretical instruction. Classes cover essentials like blood collection techniques, infection control, human anatomy basics, and legal aspects of healthcare.
Students train at various Houston locations, including SERJobs’ main campus on Telephone Road or partnered sites such as Galveston College. Upon completion, graduates earn a nationally recognized certification, significantly enhancing their employment opportunities in healthcare.
To be eligible, candidates must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, provide valid photo ID, and be authorized to work in the U.S. While the tuition is fully covered for eligible students, there’s a registration process, including a signed admissions application.
SERJobs’ approach is supportive, offering career coaching, resume assistance, and job search resources to help graduates successfully transition into employment, with earning potential ranging from $13 to $20 per hour depending on experience.
| Category | Details |
| Price | Free ($0) |
| Format | In-person, hands-on instruction |
| Duration | 6 to 7 weeks (120 hours total) |
| Schedules | Varies; daytime classes |
| Address | 1710 Telephone Rd, Houston, TX 77023 (and other Houston locations like Galveston College) |
2. HCDE Adult Education
This free phlebotomy program through HCDE Adult Education runs for 6 to 12 weeks and includes both classroom learning and hands-on training. Students learn how to safely collect blood samples from adults, children, and infants, and they get experience with safety procedures, infection control, and patient interaction. The program ends with the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) certification exam, included at no cost.
To qualify, applicants must be at least 18 years old, live in Harris or Liberty County, have a government-issued photo ID, and be eligible to work in the U.S. They must also commit to attendance, pass placement tests, and must not already have a bachelor’s degree. Drug testing and background checks are also required.
Morning and evening class options are available, including general and ESL-friendly sections. Topics covered include specimen collection, infection control, legal and ethical issues, communication in healthcare, and more. All materials and testing fees are included.
| Category | Details |
| Price | Free ($0) |
| Format | In-person with hands-on training |
| Duration | 6 to 12 weeks |
| Schedules | Morning and evening options; general and ESL classes available |
| Address | 6515 Irvington Blvd., Houston, TX 77022 |
🔍 Simplify Your Search
We’ve narrowed down the best part-time, online, and accelerated phlebotomy programs in the Houston metro area:
What We Suggest
Both SERJobs and HCDE Adult Education offer free phlebotomy training programs in the Houston area, and if you’re considering this career path, either one could be a valuable opportunity. These programs cover essential skills and lead to national certification—at no cost to participants—which is a rare find in healthcare training.
That said, free doesn’t mean easy to get into. Both programs come with eligibility requirements, and space is often limited. HCDE has a more clearly defined list of qualifications, including residency in Harris or Liberty County and restrictions based on education level (you can’t already hold a bachelor’s degree). SERJobs is a bit less transparent upfront, but it’s clear that not everyone qualifies automatically. For both, you’ll likely need to meet attendance commitments, pass background checks, and go through a multi-step registration process.
The biggest difference is in program length—SERJobs offers a shorter, 6–7 week track, while HCDE’s program runs 6–12 weeks and offers morning and evening options, including ESL-friendly instruction. If flexibility in schedule or English support is important to you, HCDE might be a better fit. If you’re hoping to complete training more quickly, SERJobs could be the way to go.
| Topic | What We Suggest |
| Program Cost | Both programs are 100% free—take advantage if you qualify. |
| Length | SERJobs: 6–7 weeks HCDE: 6–12 weeks. |
| Schedule Options | HCDE offers morning/evening and ESL-friendly classes. SERJobs may vary by site. |
| Eligibility | HCDE lists requirements clearly (must live in Harris/Liberty County, etc.). SERJobs is less specific. |
| Class Availability | Spots are limited in both—apply as early as possible. |
| Best Approach | Reach out to both programs and talk to a representative directly. |
Don’t wait for the “perfect” option—apply to both if you qualify. Contact each school directly and speak with a representative. That’s often the best way to get the most accurate, up-to-date information on enrollment, deadlines, and class availability. These programs fill quickly, and getting accepted into either one is a win. If you’re offered a spot, take it. It’s a strong step toward a stable job in healthcare without the burden of tuition.