If you’re researching lymphedema credentials—either as a clinician planning your next step or as a patient trying to choose a provider—you’ll see two terms constantly: CLT and CLT-LANA.
They’re related, but they don’t mean the same thing.
- CLT typically means a clinician completed a comprehensive Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) training program and earned a certificate from that education provider.
- CLT-LANA means that clinician met Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) eligibility requirements and passed the LANA certification exam, earning an independent credential.
This guide breaks down the differences and gives you a clear, step-by-step understanding of LANA training standards, exam requirements, and recertification.
Key Takeaways (Quick Answers)
- CLT is most often a training credential awarded after completing a CDT/lymphedema therapy certification program.
- CLT-LANA is an additional, independent credential earned by meeting LANA requirements and passing the LANA exam.
- LANA eligibility requires successful completion of a 135-hour CDT course and a current, unrestricted professional license.
- For candidates trained on/after Jan 1, 2022, LANA states 45 hours (one-third of 135) may be delivered via internet-based learning.
- The LANA exam is 130 multiple-choice questions; 20 questions are included for research.
- LANA certification expires on December 31st, six years from the last certification date.
CLT vs CLT-LANA: Simplest Way to Understand It
What Does CLT Mean?
CLT (Certified Lymphedema Therapist) generally indicates a clinician has completed a structured lymphedema therapy education program (commonly centered around CDT principles). Because CLT is usually awarded by the training organization, the specific curriculum and assessment are tied to that provider’s standards.
If you’re still deciding whether lymphedema therapy is the right path—or you want the step-by-step training roadmap—see our guide: Become a Certified Lymphedema Therapist.
What Does CLT-LANA Mean?
CLT-LANA means the clinician completed qualifying CDT education and then pursued independent certification through LANA by meeting eligibility requirements and passing the certification exam.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | CLT | CLT-LANA |
|---|---|---|
| Awarded by | A lymphedema training/education provider | LANA (independent certification body) |
| Typical prerequisite | Provider-specific (often licensed clinicians) | Current, unrestricted license required |
| Education foundation | CDT/lymphedema therapy course | 135-hour CDT course required |
| Assessment | Varies by program | Standardized LANA exam |
| Renewal | Depends on provider/state/setting | Expires Dec 31, six years; recertification required |
View upcoming CDT course dates from the Norton School
Why the Difference Matters (Clinicians + Patients)
For Clinicians
- CLT is the gateway: it’s where you build hands-on competency with CDT fundamentals.
- CLT-LANA can be a career differentiator because it’s standardized and independently administered.
For Patients and Referral Sources
Many patients are told to look for therapists with robust formal training—and CLT-LANA is one recognizable way to identify exam-certified clinicians. (That said, many outstanding therapists are CLTs who are not LANA-certified.)
LANA Training Program Standards (What LANA Expects from Your Education)
LANA’s eligibility is built on a clear educational foundation:
1) 135-hour CDT Requirement
LANA states that candidates must successfully complete a 135-hour course in Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT).
2) Internet-Based Learning Limits for 2022+ Graduates
For candidates trained on or after January 1, 2022, LANA states that 45 hours (one-third of 135 hours) may be delivered via internet-based learning.
Why this matters: CDT is hands-on. LANA’s format standards emphasize practical training quality—not just theory.
CLT-LANA Requirements (Eligibility Basics)
LANA’s published “Get Certified” guidance emphasizes two core eligibility requirements:
- A current, unrestricted professional license (U.S. state or international equivalent)
- Successful completion of a 135-hour CDT course
Because the official requirements can include additional details and documentation steps, it’s smart to confirm your training format and paperwork early—especially if you trained on/after January 1, 2022.
CLT-LANA Exam Pathway (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Complete Qualifying CDT Education
Most clinicians earn their CLT credential after completing their CDT course, then decide whether to pursue LANA certification next.
Step 2: Apply for the LANA Exam
LANA’s exam application workflow includes an application process, documentation upload, and payment. The application page shows a $430.00 USD fee.
Step 3: Prepare Based on the Official Exam Outline
The most reliable starting point is LANA’s exam outline and content domains (use it like your study blueprint).
Step 4: Take the LANA Exam
LANA states the certification exam consists of 130 multiple-choice questions, and 20 questions are included for research purposes.
How Long Does CLT-LANA Last? (Recertification and Renewal)
LANA certification is time-limited.
- LANA states that certifications expire on December 31st, six years from the last certification date.
- Recertification requirements and policy details are published by LANA and typically involve meeting renewal criteria during your certification cycle.
So… Which Credential Should You Pursue?
If You’re Building Your Foundation in Lymphedema Care
Start with a comprehensive CDT course and earn your CLT. That’s where hands-on skills are built and validated.
- CDT–Lymphedema Certification Course
- Home Study Mentor support (helpful for the home-study portion)
If You Want an Independent, Standardized Credential
Plan for CLT-LANA after your training—especially if your employer, referral partners, or career goals value a board-style exam credential.
If You’re a Patient Choosing a Therapist
A CLT indicates formal training; CLT-LANA indicates training plus exam-based certification. Either can be a good sign—then you can ask about experience, patient population, and treatment approach.
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