Both are nationally recognized credentials accepted by most employers, but they differ in eligibility, format, and emphasis. The CMA (AAMA) is offered only to graduates of CAAHEP- or ABHES-accredited medical assistant programs; it emphasizes clinical procedures and has 200 questions in 3 hours, with a scaled pass score of 430/700. The RMA (AMT) has broader eligibility (you can qualify through work experience without an accredited program); it has 200–210 questions and covers similar content but with slightly different weighting on administrative tasks. CMA (AAMA) is more widely recognized and required by larger healthcare systems; RMA (AMT) is a good alternative for experienced MAs returning to certification.