Georgia Pharmacy Technician Requirements

Are you ready to embark on a rewarding career as a pharmacy technician in the Peach State? This guide will provide you with a step-by-step roadmap, outlining everything you need to know to get certified and start working in this dynamic healthcare field in Georgia. Please note that it’s essential to always refer to the official Georgia Board of Pharmacy website (https://gbp.georgia.gov/) for the most current and accurate regulations. Obtaining a Georgia pharmacy technician license is a great way to break into the healthcare field.

Work Environments for Pharmacy Technicians in Georgia

Pharmacy technicians in Georgia work in a variety of dynamic and essential healthcare settings across the state. Here’s a look at some of the common places you might find yourself working, a few of the tasks you may perform, and some of the state’s major pharmacy and healthcare employers:

Retail Pharmacies: Receive and process prescriptions, interact with customers, and work with insurance companies. Examples include CVS, Walgreens, and Kroger.
Hospitals: Prepare and deliver medications to patients within hospitals, potentially specializing in areas like IV compounding or chemotherapy preparation. Examples include Emory Healthcare, Wellstar Health System, and Piedmont Healthcare.
Long-Term Care Facilities: Assist in the preparation and distribution of medications for residents of nursing homes or assisted living facilities.
Specialty Pharmacies: Assist in dispensing and preparing complex medications for specific disease states.
Mail-Order Pharmacies: Fill prescriptions and ship them directly to patients.

In all of these settings, there may be an opportunity to perform more advanced functions and support pharmacists in their care of patients.

Step 1: Understanding the Requirements

To work as a certified pharmacy technician in Georgia, you must meet the following criteria set by the Georgia Board of Pharmacy:

Age: Be at least 17 years old.
Education: Be currently enrolled in high school, have a high school diploma, have a GED, or have postsecondary education or a college degree.
Criminal Background: Submit to a criminal background check as part of the registration process.
Certification: Georgia does not require certification as part of the registration process. However, Georgia rules allow for higher pharmacy technician to pharmacist ratios with certified technicians. As a result, employers will prefer technicians who have their national certification. Obtaining status as a certified pharmacy technician in Georgia may lead to greater career opportunities and higher earning potential.
- Preferred Path: Obtain national certification from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
- Alternative Path: Complete an employer-based training program approved by the Georgia Board of Pharmacy. (Important Note: Verify the specific requirements and approval process for this option directly on the Board’s website (https://gbp.georgia.gov/)).
Registration: Complete the online application process with the Georgia Board of Pharmacy and pay the associated fees.

Important Note: The Georgia Board of Pharmacy can deny registration based on disciplinary actions, criminal history, or other factors outlined in their regulations.

Step 2: Choosing a Certification Path

While Georgia doesn’t mandate certification, obtaining your Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) credentials is highly advantageous and preferred by employers due to the benefits in allowable pharmacy technician-to-pharmacist ratios. Here’s how to pursue the PTCB route:

Complete a PTCB-recognized training program OR gain at least 500 hours of practical experience working as a registered pharmacy technician.
Register for and pass the PTCB exam.

Step 3: Applying for Your Georgia Pharmacy Technician Registration

Visit the Georgia Board of Pharmacy website: Go to https://gbp.georgia.gov/ and create an account on the Georgia Drugs & Narcotics Agency’s secure registration portal.
Complete the online application: The application includes your personal information, education, certification details (if applicable), and responses to questions about disciplinary actions or criminal history. You will choose whether you are applying as a “Pharmacy Technician” (uncertified) or a “Certified Pharmacy Technician.”
Pay the application fee: The current application fee is listed on the Georgia Board of Pharmacy website. It is $100 at the time this post is drafted.
Submit supporting documentation: Along with your application, you’ll submit:
- Proof of certification from the PTCB if applicable
- Criminal Background Check
- Any other documents required by the Board based on your individual circumstances.

Important Note: The Georgia Board of Pharmacy will carefully review your application. Be prepared to provide additional details to facilitate a smooth process.

Step 4: Renewing Your Registration

Georgia pharmacy technician registrations expire biennially (every two years) on June 30th of odd-numbered years. To maintain your ability to work, be sure to renew on time! Here’s what you need to know:

Renewal Cycle: You must renew your registration before September 1st of the odd-numbered year it expires. You’ll likely receive a renewal notice from the Georgia Board of Pharmacy.
Renewal Fee: Pay the required renewal fee to the Georgia Board of Pharmacy. Be sure to check their website as fees are subject to change.
Renewal Process: You may be able to renew your registration online through the Georgia Board of Pharmacy website or by mail, depending on their current system.
Continuing Education (CE): Beginning July 1, 2023, you’ll need to complete 20 hours of Board-approved continuing education every two-year renewal cycle to renew your registration.
- See the Board website for approved CE courses and further details.
- Your first CE requirement will depend on when you initially register (refer to Rule 480-15-.02 (6)).

Important Notes:

If you fail to renew before September 1st of the expiration year, your registration will lapse, and you’ll need to reapply for a new registration.
Maintain your proof of CE completion for at least two years, as the Board may audit your records.

Additional Tips for Success

Network with Pharmacy Professionals: Build connections within the Georgia pharmacy field by attending industry events, joining professional associations like the Georgia Society of Health-System Pharmacists (GSHP) or the Georgia Pharmacy Association (GPhA), or reaching out to pharmacists or technicians in your area. Local networks can be great sources of support and guidance as you navigate your career.
Develop Strong Communication Skills: Pharmacy technicians interact extensively with patients, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. Practice clear communication, active listening, and empathy to excel in this role.
Stay Current: Keep up with updates in Georgia pharmacy regulations, best practices, and new therapies by taking additional CE courses, subscribing to industry publications, or attending conferences. Proactive learning demonstrates your commitment to the field.

Conclusion

Becoming a certified pharmacy technician in Georgia offers a rewarding career path within the state’s dynamic healthcare field. By following the steps outlined in this guide and pursuing national certification, you’ll open doors to exciting opportunities and contribute to the health and well-being of your community.

FAQ

How long does it take to become a certified pharmacy technician in Georgia? The timeline varies depending on your certification path and how quickly you complete the outlined requirements. Since certification is not mandated, the process could potentially be completed within a few weeks.
What is the average salary for a certified pharmacy technician in Georgia? Average salary figures vary by location within Georgia. Research resources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) or salary comparison websites for the most up-to-date information on your specific area.
Is certification required to work as a pharmacy technician in Georgia? No, certification is not currently required for initial registration. However, becoming a certified pharmacy technician increases your career opportunities, potential earning power, and demonstrates your commitment to excellence.
Where can I find more information about pharmacy technician careers in Georgia? Here are some helpful resources:
- Georgia Board of Pharmacy: https://gbp.georgia.gov/
- Georgia Society of Health-System Pharmacists (GSHP): https://www.gshp.org/
- Georgia Pharmacy Association (GPhA): https://www.gpha.org/