Contents
A pharmacy technician is a health care professional who works in a pharmacy, typically under the direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist. Pharmacy technicians help pharmacists dispense prescription medication to customers or health care providers.
Checkout this video:
Introduction
Working as a pharmacy technician can be a rewarding career in the healthcare industry. Pharmacy technicians work closely with pharmacists to dispense prescription medications to patients. In order to become a licensed pharmacy technician, there are several steps that must be taken.
First, you must complete a pharmacy technician training program that is accredited by the National Healthcare Association (NHA) or the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). Residency programs are also available, but are not required for licensure. Once you have completed a training program, you must then pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
Once you have passed the PTCE, you can apply for state licensure as a pharmacy technician. Each state has different requirements for licensure, so be sure to check with your state board of pharmacy for more information. Once you are licensed, you will need to renew your license every two years and complete continuing education requirements in order to maintain your license in good standing.
By following these steps, you can become a licensed pharmacy technician and begin working in this rewarding career field.
The Educational Requirements for Becoming a Licensed Pharmacy Technician
To become a licensed pharmacy technician, you must first complete a pharmacy technician program that has been accredited by the American Council on Pharmaceutical Education (ACPE). The program must be at least two years in length, and you must earn a passing score on the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) to become certified. Once you have completed the necessary education and certification, you can then apply for a state-issued license.
Completing a High School Education or GED
While it is not required, completing a high school education or GED is recommended for those who wish to become licensed pharmacy technicians. Although most employers prefer to hire candidates who have a high school diploma or GED, some may be willing to train on-the-job. In these cases, the employer may require the completion of a vocational training program as well as on-the-job training.
Enrolling in an Approved Pharmacy Technician Training Program
In order to become a licensed pharmacy technician, you will need to complete an approved pharmacy technician training program. These programs are typically offered at community colleges and vocational schools, and they generally last one or two semesters. After completing a training program, you will then need to pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board’s (PTCB) national certification exam. Once you have passed this exam, you will be able to apply for state licensure.
Successfully Passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam
To become a licensed pharmacy technician, you must first successfully pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE). The PTCE is a computer-based exam that is offered at Pearson VUE testing centers across the United States.
You must have a high school diploma or equivalent to sit for the PTCE. Some states may have additional requirements, such as completing an accredited pharmacy technician training program or passing a state-specific exam.
Once you have passed the PTCE, you will need to apply for licensure with the state board of pharmacy where you plan to work. Each state has different licensure requirements, so be sure to check with your state board for specific information.
In most states, licensure is granted once you have submitted an application and paid the required fees. Once you are licensed, you will need to renew your license every one to two years, although requirements vary by state.
Continuing education may also be required to maintain your license. Check with your state board of pharmacy for specific requirements in your area.
The State Licensing Requirements for Becoming a Licensed Pharmacy Technician
Although pharmacy technicians are not licensed in all states, most states have begun to require some form of certification or licensure in order to practice. There are a few states that have no licensing requirements, but most states require certification from either a nationally-recognized organization or the state’s Board of Pharmacy. The requirements for licensure vary from state to state, but most states require passing an exam and completing a certain amount of continuing education credits.
Applying for a Pharmacy Technician License
Once you have met all the necessary qualifications, you can apply for a pharmacy technician license. The requirements for licensure vary from state to state, but most states require that you submit an application, pass an exam, and pay a fee. Some states also require that you complete a criminal background check.
You can find specific information about the requirements for licensure in your state by contacting your state’s board of pharmacy or department of health. Once you have gathered all the required information, you can submit your application and fees to the board of pharmacy. Once your application has been processed, you will be notified of your examination date and time.
The examination for pharmacy technicians is administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). The PTCB offers both a computer-based and paper-based exam. The computer-based exam is offered year-round at Pearson VUE testing centers, while the paper-based exam is offered only twice per year.
The PTCB examination consists of 90 multiple-choice questions that cover four content areas: medical terminology, pharmacology, pharmacy calculations, and pharmacy law and ethics. You will have one hour and 50 minutes to complete the exam. A score of 70% or higher is needed to pass the exam.
Renewing Your Pharmacy Technician License
Most states require pharmacy technicians to renew their license every one to two years. The process generally includes completing continuing education (CE) credits and submitting a renewal application to the state board of pharmacy. Some states require CE credits in specific topics, while others allow techs to choose their own courses. Generally, pharmacists and technicians must complete CE activities together, but some states allow technicians to complete CE hours independently.
Conclusion
We hope this article has given you a better idea of what it takes to become a licensed pharmacy technician. The bottom line is that it will take some effort on your part, but the reward is a career that is in high demand and offers a good salary and benefits. With the right training and motivation, you can be on your way to a new career in no time.
