If you are considering a career as a pharmacy technician in New Mexico, understanding the timeline from starting your education to beginning work is essential for planning your career path. The process involves several steps, and the total time can vary depending on your chosen route.
Types of Pharmacy Technicians in New Mexico
New Mexico recognizes two types of pharmacy technicians:
- Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) – Completed required training, passed a certification exam (PTCB or ExCPT), registered with the Board of Pharmacy, and maintains current certification.
- Non-Certified Pharmacy Technician – In the process of completing required training and education, and registered with the Board of Pharmacy.
Timeline for Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in NM
Step 1: Meet Prerequisites (0-3 months)
Unlike many states, New Mexico does not specify a minimum age requirement for registration, nor does it require a high school diploma or GED for pharmacy technicians.
Step 2: Complete Training Program (2-12 months)
Training options include:
- On-the-job training programs (2-6 months)
- Community college certificate programs (3-12 months)
- Online pharmacy technician courses (2-6 months)
Step 3: Registration with the NM Board of Pharmacy (2-4 weeks)
To work as a pharmacy technician in New Mexico, you must:
- Submit a completed application
- Pay required fees
- Provide necessary documentation
- If non-certified, submit a training record signed by a supervising pharmacist or training sponsor
Step 4: Certification Exam (Optional for initial registration, but required for CPhT status)
Preparation and testing time: 1-3 months
- Study and prepare for either the PTCB or ExCPT certification exam
- Schedule and take the certification exam
- Wait for results (typically 1-3 weeks)
Total Time Estimate
Fastest Route (Non-Certified Technician): 3-4 months
- Begin on-the-job training
- Register with the Board of Pharmacy
- Start working as a non-certified technician while continuing training
Standard Route (Certified Technician): 6-12 months
- Complete a structured training program
- Prepare for and pass certification exam
- Register with the Board of Pharmacy as a certified technician
Extended Route (With Formal Education): 9-15 months
- Complete a formal pharmacy technician program at a community college
- Obtain certification
- Register with the Board of Pharmacy
Career Advancement Benefits of Certification
While you can work as a non-certified technician in New Mexico, becoming certified offers several advantages:
- Higher earning potential
- Ability to administer vaccines under a pharmacist’s supervision
- Better job security and advancement opportunities
- Broader scope of permissible activities
Prepare for Your ExCPT Certification
The ExCPT (Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians) is one of two nationally recognized certification exams accepted in New Mexico.
National Science College offers a fully-online ExCPT-oriented preparation course designed to help aspiring pharmacy technicians in New Mexico prepare for their certification exam. The course is structured to accommodate working professionals and students with busy schedules.
For more information about pharmacy technician registration in New Mexico, visit the New Mexico Board of Pharmacy’s official website.
Key Takeaways
- You can begin working as a non-certified pharmacy technician in New Mexico in as little as 3-4 months
- Becoming a certified pharmacy technician typically takes 6-12 months
- New Mexico allows two certification options: PTCB or ExCPT
- Registration with the New Mexico Board of Pharmacy is required for all pharmacy technicians
- Certification expands your scope of practice and career opportunities
If you are ready to pursue a career as a pharmacy technician in New Mexico, the path can be relatively quick compared to many healthcare professions, offering a good entry point into the healthcare field with opportunities for growth and advancement.