Pharmacy Technician Certification: A Comprehensive Guide

Pharmacy technician certification is beneficial for those seeking a rewarding career in healthcare. With job growth projected at 7% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than average, and approximately 47,400 openings projected each year, the demand for skilled pharmacy technicians is rising. Certification validates your competency and boosts your marketability in this expanding field. Key certifying bodies, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board and the National Healthcareer Association, provide the necessary credentials. Understanding how to train for a pharmacy technician job and pursue relevant pharmacy tech certifications may set you on the path to a successful career.
 

What Is a Pharmacy Technician Certification?

Pharmacy technician certification is a professional credential that verifies a technician's competency in their field. Unlike licensure, which is required by state law to practice, certification is a voluntary achievement that often leads to broader career opportunities and increased responsibility. Benefits of pharmacy tech certification include:

• Increased marketability: Certified technicians stand out in the job market.
• Demonstration of skill competency: Certification proves proficiency in key areas.
• More career opportunities: Open doors to advanced roles and responsibilities.
• Reduced error rates: Certified technicians are less likely to make mistakes, improving patient safety.
• Enhanced pharmacist efficiency: Allow pharmacists more time for patient care and clinical tasks.
• Improved patient care: Contribute to better health outcomes and overall care quality.

Pharmacy tech certification signifies that professionals are well-prepared to meet the demands of the role, ultimately benefiting both the pharmacy team and their patients.

Related: How To Become a Pharmacy Technician
 

Do Pharmacy Technicians Need Certification?

Certification for pharmacy technicians is becoming increasingly important in the healthcare field. It shows that technicians have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively, which contributes to better patient care and supports the pharmacist's role. Certification also elevates credentials for pharmacy technicians, making them more competitive in the job market.

Pharmacy Technician Certification Board

The PTCB certification is a widely recognized credential in the pharmacy industry. To qualify for PTCB certification, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• U.S. residency.
• Completion of a PTCB-recognized education program or equivalent work experience.
• Disclosure of any criminal history or State Board actions.
• Compliance with PTCB policies.

Understanding the PTCB certification meaning and how the exam is structured may help you prepare. Here's an overview of what you might expect:

• Cost: $129.
• Format: Computer-based, 90 multiple-choice questions.
• Duration: 2 hours (including tutorial and survey).
• Testing locations: Pearson VUE test centers or online proctored exams.

National Healthcareer Association

The NHA offers another prominent certification for pharmacy technicians through the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians. To be eligible for the ExCPT, candidates must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have a high school diploma or GED.
• Complete a pharmacy technician training program or have one year of work experience.

NHA certification validates a technician's ability to perform essential pharmacy tasks, improving their professional credentials and job opportunities. Here's an overview of the exam structure to help you prepare:

• Cost: $129
• Format: 100 multiple-choice questions.
• Testing locations: Over 600 centers nationwide or online proctoring.
• Certification validity: Two years, with recertification options.

Certification Process

Training to become a certified pharmacy technician involves steps designed to ensure you have the necessary skills and knowledge for the role. Follow this guide to meet the certification for pharmacy technician requirements:

1. Obtain a High School Diploma or GED

A high school diploma or GED is essential for starting a career as a pharmacy technician. Courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics will provide a strong foundation in the scientific principles required for the role. Focusing on subjects related to healthcare, such as biology, may also be beneficial.

2. Complete Necessary Training and Education

Depending on the program, pharmacy technician training may range from four months to two years. Opt for programs that offer hands-on experience and comprehensive coursework. Consider enrolling in programs that provide preparatory courses for certification exams, and seek out internships or practical experience to enhance your skills.

3. Take a Certification Exam

To become certified, you will need to pass an exam from either the PTCB or NHA. Here are some tips to excel:

• Study regularly. Use official study guides and practice exams to familiarize yourself with the test format.
• Review key topics. Focus on drug classifications, pharmacy laws, and medication administration.
• Manage your time. Practice answering questions within the allotted time to build confidence.

4. Apply for a License

Certification is distinct from licensure. While certification validates your competence, licensure is a legal requirement to practice in certain states. Check your state's regulations to see if licensure is required. If so, follow your state's application process, which may involve submitting proof of certification and passing a state-specific exam.

5. Look for Jobs

With certification and, if necessary, licensure in hand, begin your job search. Utilize job boards, network with professionals, and check with local pharmacies and healthcare facilities for openings. Tailor your resume to highlight your certification and relevant skills to increase your chances of securing a position.

6. Start Working as a Pharmacy Technician

Once certified, you may begin working as a pharmacy technician. This role involves filling prescriptions, assisting pharmacists, and providing customer service in various settings such as retail pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics. Leverage your certification to explore diverse opportunities and gain valuable experience in the field.

7. Keep Up With Continuing Education Requirements

To maintain your certification, you must complete continuing education courses. PTCB requires CPhTs to earn at least 20 hours of CE every two years. This includes specific hours in pharmacy law and patient safety. Stay updated with industry trends and enhance your skills by enrolling in relevant courses.

Related: Where Can a Certified Pharmacy Technician Work?
 

Exam Preparation

To excel in your Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam, use a variety of study resources to help you understand the exam's content areas. Start with the PTCE Practice Bank, which offers over 300 retired questions. This tool lets you create customized practice tests based on different topics and difficulty levels. Complement your practice with the Pre-PTCE, an official practice exam that simulates the actual PTCE format and provides detailed feedback. Here are some key topics to study:

• Medications: Generic and brand names, classifications, drug interactions, and dosage forms.
• Federal requirements: Handling and disposal of substances, controlled substance regulations, and FDA recall requirements.
• Patient safety: High-alert medications, error prevention strategies, and event reporting procedures.
• Order entry and processing: Compounding procedures, calculations, equipment needed, and medication labeling.

Review the PTCE Content Outline to understand these areas in detail. Utilize the PTCE Reference List for additional study materials and familiarize yourself with the Pearson VUE tutorial for the testing platform. Finally, make sure you meet all technical requirements by watching the Online Testing Requirements Overview video.
 

Maintaining Certification

To keep your pharmacy certification active, recertification is required every two years. This involves completing a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education. Specifically, you must earn at least one hour in pharmacy law and one hour in patient safety. Make sure your credits are processed and claimed within 60 days of the live activity or completion of an on-demand course. Staying current with these requirements means you remain knowledgeable and compliant with industry standards.

Related: A Day in the Life of a Pharmacy Technician
 

Career Outlook and Advancement

The career outlook for certified pharmacy technicians is strong, with a projected 7% job growth from 2023 to 2033 — faster than the average for all occupations. Approximately 47,400 openings are anticipated annually, driven by an aging population and rising chronic disease rates.(1) As pharmacists increasingly focus on patient care, pharmacy technicians are taking on more responsibilities. Here are the most common work settings for pharmacists today:

• Pharmacies and drug retailers: 51%
• Hospitals: 17%
• Other settings: 32%

This expansion in roles and settings offers numerous opportunities for advancement and specialization, making it a promising career path with diverse options for professional growth.
 

State-Specific Requirements

State-specific requirements for pharmacy technicians may vary widely. Some states have no registration requirement, while others impose rigorous criteria, including formal education, practical experience, and national certification. However, the PTCB certification is accepted by regulatory bodies and employers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Consult your state's Board of Pharmacy for detailed, up-to-date regulations in your area. 

Pharmacy technician certification is a valuable asset in the healthcare field, offering increased marketability, demonstrated skill competency, and enhanced career opportunities. To elevate your career and make a meaningful impact, consider exploring Concorde Career College's Pharmacy Technician Program. With options for earning a Diploma or Associate of Applied Science Degree, the program combines online coursework, hands-on labs, and real-world externships to prepare you for success in this vital role.
 

FAQs

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about obtaining your pharmacy technician certification:

What Is the CPhT Certification?

The CPhT (Certified Pharmacy Technician) certification is awarded by the PTCB. It verifies that a pharmacy technician has the necessary knowledge and skills to support pharmacists and promote safe medication practices.

What Jobs Are Available for Certified Pharmacy Technicians?

Certified pharmacy technicians may work in various settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, outpatient clinics, and long-term care facilities. They may also find opportunities in pharmaceutical companies and insurance companies.

How Long Does It Take To Become a Pharmacy Technician?

The time it takes to become a pharmacy technician may vary depending on the state you live in and the program you select. It may take anywhere between four months and two years to complete your required education.