Today the National Board for Certification tests more than 1,700 technicians annually. To maintain certification, they must document at least ten hours of continuing education annually, including study of infection control. Certification must be renewed annually. Depending upon definitions, a mid-range estimate is about 48,000. Altogether, there are more than 12,200 technicians who either possess or seek their certification.
Estimates vary by source.
Most reliable projections suggest approximately 10,000 legitimate ongoing businesses. In 1995, the number of CDLs topped 500 for the first time. Florida specifically registers laboratories based on state OSHA law, but with no skill standard.