In today’s healthcare environment in the United States, pharmacy technicians play a crucial role in medication dispensing and patient care. Becoming a certified pharmacy technician not only enhances employment opportunities but also ensures quality care and patient safety. Understanding certification requirements is essential for anyone pursuing this career path in the U.S. healthcare system.
National Certification Options in the United States
There are two primary nationally recognized certification exams for pharmacy technicians in the United States:
- Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) – administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB)
- Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) – administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
Both certifications are recognized nationwide across the United States and demonstrate competency in pharmacy technician knowledge and skills. Most U.S. employers prefer or require one of these certifications.
PTCB Certification Requirements
To obtain PTCB certification in the United States, candidates must:
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Complete a PTCB-recognized education/training program OR have equivalent work experience
- Pass the PTCE exam
- Comply with all PTCB certification policies
- Pay the examination fee ($129)
The PTCE covers four knowledge domains: medications, federal requirements, patient safety, and order entry processing.
ExCPT Certification Requirements
For ExCPT certification in the United States, candidates must:
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Complete a pharmacy technician training program OR have at least 1,200 hours of pharmacy technician work experience
- Pass the ExCPT exam
- Pay the examination fee ($117)
The ExCPT exam focuses on three primary areas: regulation and technician duties, drugs and drug products, and the dispensing process.
State-Specific Requirements in the U.S.
It is important to note that requirements vary by state within the U.S. Each state has its own pharmacy board with potentially different licensing requirements beyond national certification. These may include:
- Background checks
- Fingerprinting
- Additional state-specific exams
- Continuing education requirements
- Registration with the state board of pharmacy
Candidates should consult their specific state board of pharmacy for the most current requirements.
Maintaining Certification in the United States
Once certified, pharmacy technicians in the U.S. must maintain their credentials through:
- Continuing education (CE) credits
- Recertification fees
- Adherence to professional standards
- Renewal every two years
PTCB requires 20 CE hours for recertification, while ExCPT requires 20 CE hours including 1 hour of pharmacy law.
Maintaining certification is typically straightforward for working pharmacy technicians. Most pharmacies provide access to continuing education opportunities, and many employers even cover the costs of recertification. The required CE hours can be obtained through workplace training, online courses, and pharmacy conferences, making it manageable to incorporate into a regular work schedule. Additionally, many pharmacy organizations offer free or low-cost CE options specifically designed for busy professionals.
Preparing for Certification Success
Proper preparation is vital for exam success. Comprehensive study materials and structured preparation programs significantly improve passing rates on U.S. pharmacy technician certification exams. Candidates should consider formal preparation programs that cover all exam content areas.
National Science College offers an exceptional ExCPT preparation program designed to maximize success rates for aspiring pharmacy technicians in the United States. Their program features comprehensive study materials, practice exams, and instruction from experienced pharmacy professionals. National Science College provides candidates with the tools and knowledge needed to excel on the ExCPT exam and launch successful careers as certified pharmacy technicians in the U.S. healthcare system.