A pharmacy technician license, often referred to as “registration”, provides legal authority to practice as a pharmacy technician in the state in which it is issued. Conversely, pharmacy technician certification is a credential that validates the knowledge and competency of the pharmacy technician holding the certification. While some states may require certification as part of their registration criteria, certification alone does not authorize an individual to practice as a pharmacy technician. We’ll dive deeper into these details throughout this post, to help you understand the difference between pharmacy technician license vs certification. We also have a nifty tool you can use to quickly understand the interplay between certification and licensure in your state!
1. What is a pharmacy technician license?
A pharmacy technician license (sometimes called registration) is a legal authorization issued by a state board of pharmacy that permits you to work as a pharmacy technician. Licensure establishes a direct regulatory relationship between the technician and the state. Most states require applicants to meet minimum standards. These may include a high school diploma or GED, a board-approved training program or national certification, a criminal background check, and a fee. For example, the Michigan licensing guide lists an application fee plus a two-year license fee of $137.70 and requires applicants to submit fingerprints, pass moral‑character questions, and complete human‑trafficking and implicit‑bias training. Once issued, licenses must be renewed periodically (often every one or two years) and may require continuing‑education hours (see Section 6). Because licensure is tied to a specific state, it is not automatically transferable if you move; you must comply with the new state’s requirements.
2. What is pharmacy technician certification?
Certification is a voluntary, national credential that demonstrates you have met standardized competency requirements and passed an exam. The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) award the CPhT and ExCPT credentials, respectively. According to the PTCB, certification establishes consistent knowledge and skills benchmarks across all 50 states and is portable. Certified technicians often qualify for higher wages and expanded responsibilities. However, certification alone does not authorize you to work in a state that requires licensure; you must still register with the state board. National certification must be renewed, typically every two years, by completing continuing‑education hours and paying a renewal fee (see Section 6).
3. Differences between licensure and certification
This table below summarizes key distinctions:
| Aspect | Pharmacy technician license (state) | Pharmacy technician certification (national) |
| Authority | Issued by the state board of pharmacy; authorizes practice within that state. | Issued by a national credentialing body (PTCB or NHA); demonstrates competence but does not grant legal authority to practice. |
| Purpose | Ensures compliance with state laws and protects public health. | Provides a standardized benchmark of knowledge and skills, potentially enhancing employability and mobility. |
| Requirements | Varies by state: age (17–18 years), high‑school diploma or GED, board-approved training or national certification, background check, application fee, and possibly fingerprinting. | National certification requires passing an exam (PTCE or ExCPT), adherence to a Code of Conduct, and periodic renewal. |
| Portability | Generally not portable; you must apply for a new license if you move to another state, though some states accept reciprocity or endorsement for existing licensees (see Section 7). | Portable across states; national certification by the PTCB is recognized in all 50. |
| Renewal/CE | Renewal periods and continuing‑education (CE) requirements vary by state (usually 1–2 years with 10–20 CE hours). | PTCB and NHA require 20 CE hours every two years, including specific topics like pharmacy law and patient safety. |
| Cost | Application and license fees typically range from $50 to $200, depending on the state in which the application is submitted. | Exam fees: PTCB CPhT $129; ExCPT $125. Renewal fees: PTCB $55; NHA $55 |
| Employer preference | Employers in regulated states require licensure; many also prefer or require certification for advancement. | Certification may lead to higher pay and eligibility for specialized roles (e.g., compounding, immunization). |
4. State licensing requirements
While every state sets its own licensure rules, most share common themes. Below is an overview followed by three detailed examples. Always check your state board’s website for the most current requirements. You can also refer to our state licensing guide for more information.
- Age and education – Most states require applicants to be at least 18 years old and have a high‑school diploma or equivalent. Some states allow younger individuals, provided they are working towards a high school diploma.
- Training or certification – Many states require completion of a board-approved technician training program, national certification, or both.
- Background check and fees – Most states require criminal background checks (often with fingerprinting) and charge application and licensing fees.
- Continuing education and renewal – Renewal periods vary from one to two years. States may require 10–20 CE hours and specific topics such as patient safety or pharmacy law.
Florida Example
In Florida, registration as a pharmacy technician is required before you can work. Applicants must be at least 17 and complete a Florida Board of Pharmacy-approved technician training program. National certification (PTCB or NHA) does not substitute for the training requirement. Florida’s licensure process includes submitting an application, paying fees (approximately $55 as of 2025), undergoing a criminal background check, and meeting good‑moral‑character requirements. The state does not currently require national certification; however, employers may prefer it for career advancement. You can read more about these requirements on the Florida Board of Pharmacy Website.
Oregon Example
Oregon issues two types of licenses: Pharmacy Technician and Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician. Both require applicants to be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Applicants for the basic Pharmacy Technician license must pay a $140 application fee, plus a $45 fingerprint background check fee, supply identification documents, and follow the instructions through the eGov portal. Individuals who are already nationally certified through PTCB or NHA should apply for the Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician license. Renewals are due annually on June 30, and Oregon requires continuous work or CE hours to maintain active status. You can read more about these requirements on the Oregon Board of Pharmacy website.
Michigan Example
Michigan offers licensure by exam or by endorsement. Applicants must submit an online application, pay a $137.70 fee (for a two-year license), undergo a criminal background check, complete human trafficking and implicit bias training, provide a social security number or exemption affidavit, and demonstrate English proficiency. Licensure by exam also requires passing either the PTCB or NHA certification exam or an approved employer-based training program. Renewal requires 20 CE hours with specific topics (e.g., pain management, patient safety, ethics). You can read more about these requirements on the Michigan Board of Pharmacy website.
5. Certification options: PTCB vs NHA exams
Two national bodies certify pharmacy technicians: PTCB (Pharmacy Technician Certification Board) and NHA (National Healthcareer Association). Both certifications are widely recognized, but they differ slightly in terms of eligibility, cost, and exam format.
| Feature | PTCB Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) | NHA Certified Pharmacy Technician (ExCPT) |
| Exam name | Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) | Examination for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) |
| Eligibility | High‑school diploma or equivalent and completion of a PTCB-recognized education/training program or equivalent work experience. | High‑school diploma or equivalent and completion of an NHA-approved training program or one year of work experience. |
| Exam cost | $129 combined application and exam fee. | $125 exam fee. |
| Exam format | 90 multiple-choice questions; 2-hour testing window. Content areas include medications, federal requirements, patient safety and quality assurance, and order entry and processing. | 100 multiple-choice questions plus 20 unscored pretest items; 2-hour testing window. Topics include regulations, drugs and drug therapy, compounding, and medication safety. |
| Renewal | Every two years, requires 20 CE hours (including at least one hour of pharmacy law and one hour of patient safety) and a $55 renewal fee. Late renewals incur an extra $25; reinstatement after expiration is $95. | Every two years, requires 20 CE hours (with one hour each in pharmacy law and patient safety) and a $55 renewal fee. |
| Portability | Accepted in all 50 states and recognized by most employers. | Also recognized nationwide. |
| Advantages | Strong industry recognition; offers advanced credentials (e.g., CSPT) and certificates for specialized roles. | Recognized by employers and some state boards. |
Certification often boosts employability and may satisfy or complement state licensing requirements, but it does not replace state licensure when required by law.
6. Costs, renewal, and continuing education requirements
Becoming and staying qualified as a pharmacy technician involves multiple costs, including state licensure fees, national exam fees, renewal fees, and continuing education expenses. The following table summarizes typical costs and obligations. Actual fees vary; please check the current state and credentialing body fees for accuracy.
| Item | Typical range/amount | Example sources |
| State license application & initial fee | $50–$200 depending on the state. | Oregon charges $185 ($140 application + $45 fingerprint); Kansas charges $77; Michigan charges $137.70 |
| National certification exam fee | PTCE $129; ExCPT $125. | PTCB & NHA official fee schedules. |
| License renewal fee | $20–$100 (varies by state, often annually or biennially). | South Carolina charges $30 for registration renewal. |
| Certification renewal fee | $55 every two years for both PTCB and NHA certifications. | |
| Continuing‑education requirements | State license: usually 10–20 CE hours per renewal cycle with specific topics (law, patient safety, etc.). | Michigan requires 20 CE hours with required topics; Kansas requires 20 CE hours.. |
| Certification: 20 CE hours (including 1 hour each of law and patient safety) every two years. | PTCB and NHA recertification requirements. | |
| Employer assistance | Some employers reimburse exam fees or cover continuing education costs as part of their benefits packages; check with your employer or training sponsor. | Many large pharmacy chains have tuition reimbursement programs. |
Budgeting for these expenses helps you avoid lapses. Keep track of renewal dates in a calendar and complete your CE hours early to avoid late fees.
7. Portability and reciprocity
Certification portability – National certification (PTCB or NHA) is inherently portable and recognized across all 50 states. Holding an active certification may make it easier to obtain licensure in a new state, as boards often acknowledge the standard of competence.
Licensure reciprocity – Because licensure is state-specific, there is no universal reciprocity. Some states allow licensure by endorsement or transfer if you hold an active license from another state (e.g., Michigan offers licensure by endorsement). Typically, you must submit your credentials, verification from the original state board, and a fee. You may still need to pass a background check or meet additional CE requirements. If you move, contact the new state board early to understand any differences.
Portability vs relocation – National certification ensures your skills are recognized anywhere, but you cannot practice legally without meeting the destination state’s licensure requirements. Conversely, licensure alone in one state may not satisfy the requirements of another state; obtaining certification can facilitate smooth transitions.
8. Salary and job outlook
Pharmacy technicians are in demand across the United States. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual pay for pharmacy technicians in 2024 was $43,460 ($20.90 per hour), and there were 490,400 jobs nationwide. The BLS projects 6% job growth from 2024 to 2034, which is faster than the average for all occupations. Approximately 31,500 new jobs are expected during this period. Hospitals and retail pharmacies offer the highest employment opportunities, although opportunities in mail-order, specialty, insurance companies, PBMs, and compounding pharmacies are also growing. Certification may improve salary prospects and open doors to specialized roles such as sterile compounding (CSPT) or immunization technician.
Salary varies by location, experience, and employer. Urban areas and hospitals often pay higher wages than rural community pharmacies. Use BLS or state workforce websites to explore salary data and demand in your region. Consider pursuing additional certifications or training (e.g., sterile compounding, immunization) to boost earning potential.
9. How to decide: license vs certification
Most pharmacy technicians will need both a state license (or registration) and a national certification at some point. Here’s how to think about your pathway:
- Check your state’s laws first. Some states require only registration and a training program (e.g., Florida), while others mandate passing a national exam by a specific date (e.g., Kansas).
- Assess your career goals. If you plan to work in a hospital, pursue specialized roles, or move between states, national certification is highly recommended because it signals competence and portability.
- Consider cost and timeline. These considerations will vary by state. In states that require certification or board-approved training, it may be more cost-effective and efficient to pursue certification rather than completing a fully accredited training program. Use the cost table (Section 6) to budget.
- Talk to employers. Many employers prefer or require certification even when states do not. Large pharmacy chains and hospitals may reimburse exam fees or provide on-the-job training.
- Plan for continuing education. Both licensure and certification require ongoing professional development and education. If you enjoy structured learning and want to keep your skills current, certification CE requirements align with professional development.
Ultimately, national certification complements licensure and helps you stay competitive in a changing field. Pursuing both can enhance employability and ensure compliance with current and future regulations.
10. State Certification Impact Lookup Tool
Use the tool below to identify how certification interacts with your state’s requirements for licensure, scope of practice, and pharmacy technician ratios. This tool is informational only; do not rely on this information for legal or practice guidance. Always verify current rules with your state’s Board of Pharmacy.
11. FAQs about pharmacy technician licensure and certification
| Question | Answer |
| Do I need both a license and certification to work as a pharmacy technician? | It depends on your state. The vast majority of states require licensure (registration), and some also require national certification. Even when not required, certification can improve job prospects and portability. |
| How long does it take to become a licensed pharmacy technician? | The timeline varies. A board-approved training program may take 3-18 months, followed by application processing (weeks to months). Passing a national exam typically takes several weeks to months of study and scheduling. |
| What happens if I let my license or certification lapse? | Working with an expired license is illegal and may lead to disciplinary action. Certification bodies charge late fees ($25 for PTCB) and require reinstatement fees if your credential lapses. States may require reapplication and additional CE for relicensure. |
| Can my employer cover the cost of my exam or renewal? | Many employers, especially large pharmacy chains and hospitals, offer tuition reimbursement or professional development benefits. Ask your human‑resources department about exam fee assistance and CE reimbursement. |
| Do I need to renew both my license and certification? | Yes. State licenses typically renew every one to two years, accompanied by CE requirements. In contrast, national certifications renew every two years and require 20 CE hours. |
| Which certification exam is easier: PTCE or ExCPT? | Both exams test similar knowledge. PTCB’s PTCE has 90 scored questions, while NHA’s ExCPT has 100 questions. Choose based on eligibility requirements, exam locations, and personal preference. Note that PTCB offers the advantage of additional specialty certifications and certificates that you can build upon for specialized roles. |
| Is national certification recognized in all states? | Yes. PTCB and NHA certifications are accepted in every state, although state boards may still require additional licensure or training. |
| Are salaries higher for certified pharmacy technicians? | Generally, certified technicians earn more than their non-certified counterparts because certification signals competence and may allow access to advanced roles. The national median pay in 2024 was $43,460. |
| What continuing‑education topics are required for recertification? | PTCB and NHA require 20 CE hours every two years, including at least one hour in pharmacy law and one hour in patient safety. Some states may require additional topics (e.g., pain management, ethics). |
12. We Used These Sources: You can Read More at These Links
| Name | URL |
| Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) | https://www.ptcb.org |
| National Healthcareer Association (NHA) | https://www.nhanow.com |
| Florida Board of Pharmacy | https://floridaspharmacy.gov |
| Oregon Board of Pharmacy | https://www.oregon.gov/pharmacy |
| Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs | https://www.michigan.gov/lara |
| Kansas Board of Pharmacy | https://www.pharmacy.ks.gov |
| U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Pharmacy Technicians | https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/pharmacy-technicians.htm |
13. Compliance & Disclaimers
Licensing requirements and fees vary by state and are subject to change over time. This article provides a general overview, using data from state boards and credentialing organizations as of October 8, 2025. Always verify specific requirements and fees with your state board of pharmacy and national certification body. Nothing in this article constitutes legal or individualized professional advice. For guidance on your specific circumstances, consult your state board or a qualified professional.
14. Authorship and Review
Artificial intelligence was used in the process of developing this post, although much human involvement and time was required to compile this information and structure it in this blog post. Dr. Aaron Emmel, PharmD, MHA, editorialized this post and verifies its accuracy as of October 8, 2025.
