Getting licensed as a Medical Technologist in the Philippines isn’t just about passing an exam; it’s about understanding the complete process from eligibility to preparation to post-exam requirements. This guide walks you through every step with clear and factual information, so you don’t miss anything along the way.
What is the MedTech Licensure Examination?
The MedTech Licensure Examination is basically the final step for graduates of BS Medical Technology or BS Public Health who want to officially practice in the Philippines. It’s administered by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and, once you pass, you can finally carry the title Registered Medical Technologist (RMT) and work in hospitals, laboratories, clinics, or even research facilities nationwide.
The exam is based on Republic Act 5527 (also known as the Philippine Medical Technology Act of 1969), which establishes the standards for who can practice, outlines the responsibilities of medical technologists, and provides the ethical guidelines that every medical technologist is expected to follow.
Who Is Eligible to Take the MedTech Licensure Examination?
To qualify, you must:
| Requirements | Details |
| Educational Background | Graduate of BS in Medical Technology or BS in Public Health from a PRC-recognized institution |
| Moral & Physical Fitness | Must be of good moral character and physically fit |
| Refresher Course | Required if you failed the exam three times (You must complete a refresher course from a PRC/CHED-recognized school before reapplying) |
Tip: You can check if your school is accredited via the official list published on the CHED or PRC websites.
Complete List of Application Requirements
Before applying online, prepare both digital and printed copies of the documents below:
| Document | Notes |
| PSA/NSO Birth Certificate | Clear copy + original for verification |
| PSA/NSO Marriage Certificate | For married female applicants only |
| Transcript of Records | Must clearly indicate “For Board Exam Purposes” + with photo |
| 4 pcs Passport-Size Photos | Must be recent, white background, and with name tag |
| Valid government-issued ID | PRC accepts UMID, Driver’s License, Passport, or PhilID |
| Certificate of Good Moral Character | Issued by your school/priest/dean/barangay |
| Refresher Course Certification | Only for repeaters (4th attempt and above) |
| Application Fee | ₱900.00 (payable online via PRC LERIS system or at payment center) |
Pro Tip: Photocopy all your documents at least twice. PRC often requests additional copies during verification.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply (Online Registration)
Walk-in filing is no longer allowed for the MedTech Licensure Examination (and for most PRC licensure exams). Even if you plan to submit your documents in person, you must register online first and secure an online appointment before going to the PRC office for document verification.
The only exception is when the PRC system is down and they issue a public advisory allowing manual/walk-in filing, but this rarely happens and is usually limited to remote regional offices or special professional licensure exams (SPLE) abroad. Here are the steps to help you with your application:
- Create an account at the PRC’s official LERIS website (https://online.prc.gov.ph).
- Fill in your personal details, educational background, and upload your photo.
- Choose Transaction → Examination, then select:
- Professional: Medical Technologist
- Exam Type: First-timer / Repeater
- Exam Date (choose the nearest cycle)
- Select your PRC Regional Office or service center for an appointment.
- Pay the ₱900 application fee (via GCash, Landbank, UCPB, or PayMaya).
- Print the Application Form and Payment Reference or Official Receipt.
- Visit your selected PRC office on your appointment date for document verification.
- Once the officer verifies and accepts your documents, they will issue your NOA on the spot, either:
- as a printed/stamped copy of your application form (with “NOTICE OF ADMISSION” on it), or
- by activating the NOA in your LERIS account, which you can then download and print at home.
- Once the officer verifies and accepts your documents, they will issue your NOA on the spot, either:
In most regional offices, you will receive a physical NOA immediately after verification.
- Keep your printed forms because you will bring them during the examination and registration.
Important: Application usually opens 3 months before the exam and ends 1 month prior. Slots run out quickly, so apply early to secure your preferred testing center.
When Is the MedTech Licensure Examination Held?
The PRC typically schedules the exam twice a year:
| Exam Month | Application Period | Result Announcement |
| March | December – February | ~4–5 working days after exam |
| August | May – July | ~4–5 working days after exam |
Testing Centers: Manila, Baguio, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Lucena, Tuguegarao, Zamboanga, and sometimes General Santos or Cagayan de Oro (depending on demand).
For overseas testing, SPLE is usually conducted in Middle East locations such as Doha, Abu Dhabi, and Riyadh.
What Topics Are Covered?
The MedTech Licensure Examination consists of 6 subjects. Each subject is timed and graded separately, and then tallied to compute your general weighted average.
| Subject | Weight | Tips |
| Clinical Chemistry | 20% | Master normal ranges, enzyme tests, electrolyte analysis, and QC procedures |
| Microbiology & Parasitology | 20% | Review major bacterial & viral pathogens, stool exams, and staining procedures |
| Hematology | 20% | Know CBC interpretation, anemia classification, and blood cell identification |
| Blood Banking, Immunology & Serology | 20% | Familiarize with blood typing, cross-matching, antigen–antibody reactions |
| Clinical Microscopy | 10% | Focus on urinalysis, CSF, body fluids, and crystal identification |
| Histopathology, Lab Management, MT Laws & Ethics | 10% | Study tissue processing, medical technology laws (RA 5527), and the ethical code |
Passing Criteria:
Minimum 75% general weighted average
No rating below 50% in any subject
What to Bring on Exam Day
- Printed Notice of Admission
- Valid ID
- Two or three black biros (ball pens)
- Exam Permit / Application Receipt
- Alcohol/sanitizers and face mask (if required)
- Basic calculator (simple 4-function; no scientific or programmable calculators)
- Clear folder (for documents)
PROHIBITED: Mobile phones, smart watches, and notes are strictly NOT ALLOWED.
After the Exam – What’s Next?
Once the exam is done, many applicants are unsure about what to expect next. The post-exam process is just as important, so here’s a quick rundown of what happens after you’ve taken the MedTech Licensure Examination and how to move forward, whether you passed or not.
Release of Results
PRC releases results via their website ~4 working days after the last exam date.
Initial Registration (Online)
Log in via PRC LERIS and complete Initial Registration. You will then choose a date for the Oath-Taking Ceremony.
Prepare for Registration
You’ll need the following:
| Duly‐accomplished Oath Form | 1 copy |
| 2 passport-sized pictures | White background, name tag |
| Notice of Admission (NOA) | Original |
| 2 sets of Documentary Stamps | 2 pcs |
| 1 short brown envelope | 1 pc |
After submitting these, you’ll sign the Roster of Registered Professionals and receive your PRC ID (RMT) and Certificate of Registration.
What If You Didn’t Pass the MedTech Licensure Examination?
Failing the Medical Technologist Licensure Exam can be discouraging, but it definitely isn’t the end of your journey. Many successful Registered Medical Technologists (RMTs) today actually failed on their first try because what made the difference was how they handled the next steps.
Things You Can Do Afterwards
| Retake the exam | You can register for the next MTLE cycle (March or August) as long as you still have attempts left |
| Register as a Medical Laboratory Technician | If you scored at least 70%, you may register with the PRC as a Medical Laboratory Technician (temporary position) |
| Enroll in a Refresher Course | Required if you have failed three (3) times. The refresher program should be issued by a CHED/PRC-recognized review or academic institution |
After the third failure, PRC will no longer accept your online application for the MedTech Licensure Examination unless you submit a Refresher Course Certificate.
How to Prepare for Your Retake
- Start Early – Ideally 4–6 months before the next exam.
- Focus on Low-Scoring Subjects – Check your previous rating and review the weakest areas first.
- Join a Review Center – They provide updated mock exams, live coaching sessions, and test-taking strategies.
- Take Time to Decompress – Allow yourself mental rest before starting fresh; burnout can affect retention and performance.
- Study with Accountability Partners – Review with peers so you can exchange mnemonics, practice questions, and simulations.
- Follow a Specific Routine – Create a study calendar with weekly targets and simulated board exams at least once a month.
Bonus: How to Prepare Effectively
- Create a 3-month study schedule
- Use review materials from:
- RMT Review Centers (e.g., Top Rank, Pentagon, CU Review)
- Books like Estridge, Rodak’s Hematology, Mahal, or Javois Histopathology, and Graff’s Medical Parasitology
- Join mock board exams for a real-test simulation
- Stay updated on PRC announcements (website or Facebook page)
- Don’t forget self-care; rest, hydrate, and pace your learning
Final Thoughts
The MedTech Licensure Examination (MTLE) may look intimidating, but it’s simply the last step toward practicing a profession you’ve already trained for. Instead of treating it as a one-day challenge, approach it as a gradual process where consistent daily review, mock exams, and a structured schedule make the biggest impact.
Don’t forget to take care of your health while preparing. Getting proper sleep, meals, and short breaks can help you absorb information better and avoid burnout. Whether you pass on the first try or need another attempt, your journey does not lose its value. You already have the knowledge; the exam is just a way to prove it.