Pharmacy Technician License Requirements by State: Your 2024 Guide

Pharmacy technician license

State Requirements for Pharmacy Technicians

Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in the healthcare system. Working alongside pharmacists, they help ensure patients receive the medications they need safely and efficiently. However, before you can embark on this rewarding career, there’s an important step you must take: obtaining your pharmacy technician license. If you are ready to get to the chase to understand if the Pharmacy Tech Scholar program is right for you, you can skip ahead to our state reference guide by clicking here.

Licensing requirements for pharmacy technicians vary significantly from state to state. Some states have stringent regulations, while others have more relaxed standards. It’s essential to understand the specific requirements in your state to ensure you’re on the right path to becoming a licensed pharmacy technician. That’s where this comprehensive guide comes in. We’ve compiled up-to-date information on pharmacy technician license requirements for all 50 states. Whether you’re just starting your career journey or considering relocating to a new state, our guide will help you navigate the licensing process with ease.

Disclaimer: State requirements and rules may change at any time, so please verify the most up to date requirements for pharmacy technician registration or licensure in your state prior to making any decision on an education or training program.

Understanding Pharmacy Technician Licensing

Pharmacy technicians are regulated at the state level, with oversight by the state’s board of pharmacy or health licensing agency. This means that the requirements for becoming a licensed pharmacy technician vary from state to state.

It’s important to note that various terms are used for pharmacy technician licenses. Some common examples include:

  • Registered pharmacy technician (RPhT)
  • Certified pharmacy technician (CPhT)
  • Licensed pharmacy technician (LPT)
  • Pharmacy technician

Some states also have different tiers of licenses, which may include:

  • Temporary training licenses: These licenses allow individuals to work as pharmacy technicians under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist while they complete their education and training.
  • Higher level licenses: These licenses allow pharmacy technicians to perform more advanced functions, such as dispensing medications and providing patient counseling.

It’s important to research the specific requirements in your state to determine the type of license you need and the steps you need to take to obtain it.

Key Components of State Pharmacy Technician Licensing

While the specifics vary, there are several key components that most state licensing boards consider when evaluating pharmacy technician candidates. Understanding these components will help you prepare for the licensing process and ensure you meet all the necessary requirements.

Education Requirements

  • High School Diploma or GED: Most require pharmacy technicians to have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED). Some states include provisions that allow individuals actively enrolled in high school or working towards a GED to register as well. This demonstrates a basic level of academic proficiency and readiness for further training.
  • Formal Pharmacy Technician Training Program: Some states require candidates to complete a formal pharmacy technician training program. These programs, often offered by community colleges, vocational schools, or employers, provide comprehensive instruction in pharmacy law, pharmacology, medication safety, and other essential topics. States with this provision generally recognize ASHP/ACPE accredited pharmacy technician programs, and will often approve other programs that include experiential training.

Examination Requirements

  • National Certification Exams: Many states require pharmacy technicians to pass a national certification exam administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). There are some states that only recognize the PTCB credential.

Experience Requirements

  • On-the-Job Training: Some states require a certain amount of on-the-job training under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. This training allows aspiring pharmacy technicians to gain practical experience in a real-world pharmacy setting.
  • Hours of Supervised Work Experience: Other states may require a specific number of hours of supervised work experience before a pharmacy technician can obtain a full license. This experience can be gained through a formal training program or through employment as a pharmacy technician trainee.

Background Checks and Other Requirements

  • Criminal Background Checks: To ensure patient safety, most states require pharmacy technicians to undergo criminal background checks. This may involve fingerprinting and a review of criminal history.
  • Moral Character Clauses: Some states will require applicants to attest to having good moral character.
  • Fingerprinting: Fingerprinting is often required as part of the background check process. This helps verify the identity of the applicant and ensures that they do not have a criminal record that would disqualify them from working as a pharmacy technician.
  • Age Requirements: Most states require pharmacy technicians to be at least 18 years old. However, some states may have a higher minimum age requirement.
  • Continuing Education: To maintain their licenses, pharmacy technicians may be required to complete continuing education courses on a regular basis. These courses help ensure that pharmacy technicians stay up-to-date on the latest developments in pharmacy practice and law.

Fees

Applications for a pharmacy technician license will include the need to pay a registration fee. These fees generally range from $10 to $200. In addition, there may be additional fees associated with a background check and processing.

By understanding these key components, you can take the necessary steps to meet the requirements and pursue your career as a licensed pharmacy technician.

Navigating State-Specific Pharmacy Technician Requirements

Now that you understand the general components of pharmacy technician licensing, it’s time to delve into the specifics of your state. Remember, each state has its own unique set of requirements, so it’s crucial to do your research thoroughly.

To help you in this process, we’ve created comprehensive state-by-state licensing guides. Simply click on your state, and you’ll find detailed information on the following:

  • Minimum education requirements: Find out if your state requires a high school diploma, GED, formal training program, or associate degree.
  • Exam requirements: Learn which national and state-specific exams you need to pass.
  • Experience requirements: Discover if your state mandates on-the-job training or a specific number of hours of supervised work experience.
  • Background check and other requirements: Get information on criminal background checks, fingerprinting, age restrictions, and continuing education.

Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your pharmacy technician career path. By understanding the specific requirements in your state, you can tailor your education and training accordingly, ensuring a smooth and successful licensing process. So, don’t hesitate! Explore our guides and discover the unique requirements that await you in your state.

Is the Pharmacy Tech Scholar Course Right for Me?

Many aspiring pharmacy technicians choose Pharmacy Tech Scholar as a convenient and cost-effective way to meet educational requirements. In most states, completing our course and passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) will fulfill the credentials needed to apply for your license.

However, some states require an ASHP-accredited training program or a program with a live training component. In these states, an online-only program like the one offered by us at Pharmacy Tech Scholar will not be enough to meet state requirements.

How Pharmacy Tech Scholar Can Help

Regardless of your state’s requirements, Pharmacy Tech Scholar offers several benefits:

  • Path to Certification: As a PTCB-recognized program, Pharmacy Tech Scholar prepares you for the PTCE, a critical step towards licensure in many states. In addition to any state requirements, attaining certification is a great way to advance your career.
  • Didactic Knowledge: Pharmacy Tech Scholar provides a solid foundation in pharmacy law, pharmacology, and other essential topics, enhancing your skills and demonstrating your commitment to the profession.

The Importance of Experiential Training

While our course offers valuable knowledge, it doesn’t replace hands-on experience. Regardless of your state’s requirements, seek on-the-job training under a licensed pharmacist to gain practical skills and confidence.

State-Specific Considerations

Here are some additional factors to consider when navigating state-specific requirements:

  • ASHP-Accredited Programs: If your state requires an ASHP-accredited program, consider employer-based training programs. These programs can offer financial benefits and valuable hands-on experience.
  • State-Approved Programs with Live Training: Some states have approved programs that include a live training component. Research these options to find a program that aligns with your state’s requirements.

State Reference Map

The color coded map below indicates how the Pharmacy Tech Scholar course may impact your licensure eligibility in your state.

Disclaimer

The information provided here is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify the requirements with your state’s Board of Pharmacy to ensure you’re on the right track to becoming a licensed pharmacy technician. Data used to create this map was obtained in July 2024, and may have changed since this date.

Green states: Neither certification nor pharmacy specific training are required prior to registering. Completing the Pharmacy Tech Scholar course and passing the PTCE offers benefits in terms of career advancement and possibly increased scopes of roles and responsibilities.

Light purple states: The Pharmacy Tech Scholar course is approved by the Board of Alabama as a state approved training program. South Carolina also considers a PTCB-recognized program to be state approved. Completing our course in either of these states will meet the training requirement, even without certification. We offer incredible value in these two states.

Dark purple states: These states require national certification as a standalone requirement or an alternative to board approved training. Our course is ideal in these states as it offers an affordable and high quality path to qualify for and pass the PTCB exam.

Red states: These states may or may not require national certification, but they do require all applicants to complete an ASHP/ACPE accredited or otherwise state board of pharmacy approved training program. Our course will not be sufficient to help you satisfy these requirements. However, if you are looking for supplemental education, our course may be helpful to you.

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Responses

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  1. Where is your business located? Where is your contact number and contact information? Can we speak over the phone? I am interested in purchasing the program and want more info. Please get back to me at your earliest convenience.

    1. Hi Ger,

      We are located in Florida but we operate as a remote/distance learning business. You can view our contact info under the About tab on the website header (Contact). Feel free to email us any time at [email protected]. We can also set up a phone call or zoom meeting as well!

  2. Can I study the online class on iphone or ipad? My daughter has been using mu laptop. I live in Texas and has no experience in Phar Tech field. After I finish your course, I’ll eligible to take a PTCE exam , correct?

    1. Our course can be accessed using the web browser on your tablet or iphone. Admittedly, it works much better on the tablet but you can still view the videos, slides, and flash cards on your phone.

      Our course is PTCB-recognized, so you are eligible to take the PTCB certification exam once you complete our course. In Texas, completing our course and passing the PTCE will satisfy the training/credentialing requirement for pharmacy technician registration.

      Let me know if you have any other questions!

      Sincerely,

      Aaron

  3. I’m very interested in purchasing this class. I currently live in Mississippi but will be moving back to Arkansas next year. Arkansas is a green state on the charts but I want to know if I take the course while I’m living in Mississippi can I use the license in Arkansas?

    1. Hi Rachel,

      Our course is a PTCB-recognized program that will qualify and prepare you to take the national certification exam through the PTCB. Since this is a national exam, and our course is listed as a distance/remote learning program, you can take it from anywhere and meet the PTCE exam eligibility. This is separate from state registration/licensure.

      You can initially register in Mississippi before getting your national certification, but they require it upon renewal: https://www.mbp.ms.gov/Pages/Technician.aspx

      Once you move to Arkansas, you’ll be able to apply for their registration regardless of your certification status. You can see their application requirements here: https://www.mbp.ms.gov/Pages/Technician.aspx

    1. Hi Luis,

      Oregon has two tiers of pharmacy techcnician licensure: Pharmacy Technician and Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician. Current board rules in Oregon only allow the plain Pharmacy Technician registration for a total of two years, so you must become a Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician within that time frame. Passing our course and passing the PTCE meets the training/credentialing requirements to become a Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician. 

  4. Hi, I currently reside in WA state and was wondering if your program will meet the requirements needed in order to take the PTCB exam? I already work in a pharmacy as a B Tech, and just need to find the best program to help me study for the exam. Thanks!

    1. Hi Diana,

      Our course will meet the requirements needed in order to take the PTCB exam. However, our program will not meet Washington’s approved training program requirement for licensure. Washington requires completion of either a state approved training program, or an application for approval of training that you completed out of state. Since our program does not include experiential training, it will not be approvable by the state.

      If you are already licensed in Washington, or completed other state-approved training, our program could be used to help you prepare for the exam. However, if you already have 500 hours of working experience as a pharmacy technician, or if you completed state-approved training, it is likely you are already eligible for the exam. Let us know if you have any additional questions!

    1. New Jersey does not have any advanced certification or training requirements for pharmacy technician registration. However, they do require national certification for pharmacy technicians working in a ratio of more than 2 technicians per pharmacist, so many employers will require national certification. Taking our course and passing the PTCE will meet this requirement.

        1. Hi Margarita,
          New York requires national certification in order to apply for registration as a pharmacy technician. Yes, taking our course will qualify you for the PTCE, and passing the PTCE would meet New York’s certification requirement. We get a lot of students from New York for this reason.

          Here is a link to the New York Board of Pharmacy if you want to read more: http://www.op.nysed.gov/prof/rpt/regpharmtechlic.htm

    1. Mississippi does not have a requirement for training or advanced education for initial registration as a pharmacy technician. However, they do require that you become nationally certified before it is time for the first license renewal. Taking our course and passing the PTCE would meet this requirement.

      Our number is 904-580-6030

  5. Iowa has new rules as of July. I am a RN and I want to take the National exam. Would your course satisfy the training program for Iowa, so I could take the exam without work experience in a pharmacy?
    Thank you!

    1. Hi Theresa, yes! The new requirements in Iowa are that to register as a certified pharmacy technician, you must have your PTCB or NHA CPhT credential. You can take our course to qualify for the PTCE through the PTCB. Passing that exam will then meet the Iowa requirement.

  6. I live in Colorado but plan to move to Tennessee in 2 years. I do not have pharmacy experience but would like to become a certified pharmacy tech. Will your course satisfy both states? I should have experience by the time I move to TN.
    Thank you in advance for your help.

    1. Colorado requires national certification in order to apply for registration as a Pharmacy Technician. Taking our course and passing the PTCE will meet this requirement.

      Here is more information from the Colorado Board of Pharmacy on licensing requirements: Colorado Pharmacy Technician Requirements.

      Tennessee has similar requirements, so you would be good to go whenever you move.

  7. Hello, I’m from California, is this program accredited by the PTCB? Also is it accredited by the ASHP? Because on the PTCB I read that persons cannot take the PTCE if the organization is not ASHP or ABHES accredited…? Thank you

    1. Hi Carolina,
      Our program is recognized by the PTCB: completion of our course will qualify you to take the PTCE. All ASHP and ABHES accredited programs are automatically recognized by the PTCB. Programs that aren’t ASHP or ABHES accredited must go through an attestation process and be subject to audit in order to become PTCB-recognized. Our program is not ASHP accredited at this time, primarily because of the requirement for live learning hours (our course is online only). However, we are PTCB-recognized and you can find us in their program directory!

  8. I need more information for Nebraska. What is the difference between registered and certified. Do you register with the department of health and human services before or after certification completion

    1. Nebraska does not have any advanced certification or training requirements for initial pharmacy technician registration. You must become certified within one year however. Also, to work in a hospital or other health system environment you will need to be state or nationally certified. Also, state regulations only allow certain tasks to be performed by certified technicians. Taking our course and passing the PTCE will meet this requirement. You can read more about the certification process for Nebraska here: https://dhhs.ne.gov/licensure/Documents/PharmTechBoardApprovedCertPrograms.pdf

  9. Hi, can you give me more information on becoming certified in Ohio? Completing this course and passing my PTCE would allow me to become certified and work as a technician right?

    1. Ohio requires all pharmacy technicians to complete an ACPE/ASHP accredited or state approved training program. To be approved, a training program must include experiential (on-the-job) training. As an online-only education program, our course does not meet this requirement. Based on this requirement, we advise that you seek out a program that is ACPE/ASHP accredited or state approved.

    1. Colorado requires national certification in order to apply for registration as a pharmacy technician. Taking our course and passing the PTCE would meet this requirement.

  10. I am very interested in purchasing this course. However, I was wondering if you could give me a little more information about what all is required in the state of Tennessee. Thanks so much!

    1. In Tennessee, you can apply for initial registration as a pharmacy technician without training or certification. However, board of pharmacy regulations restrict the activities of pharmacy technicians who are not certified, and only allow 2 non-certified pharmacy technicians to work at any given time per pharmacist. For this reason, many employers require national certification. Completing our course and passing the PTCE will meet this requirement.

  11. I am currently located in Arizona, I was wondering if this course and passing the PTCB exam will make me eligible to become a certified technician ?

    1. Arizona requires national certification in order to apply for registration as a Pharmacy Technician. Taking our course and passing the PTCE will meet this requirement.

    1. Hi Abigail,

      You have two options to get started as a pharmacy technician in Louisiana. You can get enrolled in a nationally accredited pharmacy technician training program, or you can take and pass one of the national certification exams. Either of those options will allow you to apply for a training registration. You will then have to complete the accredited training program that you signed up for or obtain 600 hours of on the job training within 2 years. Once you have done that you can apply for a full license.

      Our program does not meet the criteria for their nationally accredited training program option, but it would allow you to become eligible to take one of the certification exams which could help you eat the requirements to get started. You should to take some time to read about this and decide which option is best for you but we’re happy to help you if you decide to choose our program.

      You can read more at the Louisiana Board of Pharmacy website: http://www.pharmacy.la.gov/index.cfm?md=pagebuilder&tmp=home&pid=426

  12. Hi, I currently live in Virginia and I’m interested in taking your online class. Will I be able to take the PTCB exam after completing this program? Thank you.

    1. Hi James, thanks for your comment! Virginia requires either completion of a state approved training program and a state board examination, or national certification in order to apply for registration as a Pharmacy Technician. Taking our course and passing the PTCE will meet this requirement.

      Update: Virginia updated their Board rules effective in July 2022, and now completion of an ASHP accredited program is a requirement. As an online only program, our course is not eligible for ASHP accreditation and therefore is not sufficient to meet state requirements.

    1. Hi Heather,

      Virginia requires either completion of a state approved training program and a state board examination, or national certification in order to apply for registration as a Pharmacy Technician. Taking our course and passing the PTCE will meet this requirement through the national certification pathway.

      Update: Virginia updated their Board rules effective in July 2022, and now completion of an ASHP accredited program is a requirement. As an online only program, our course is not eligible for ASHP accreditation and therefore is not sufficient to meet state requirements.

    1. Hi Shannon,
      Pennsylvania does not currently require registration for pharmacy technicians. However, some employers may require national certification. Completing our course and passing the PTCE would satisfy this requirement. 
      There is a new law on the books that will require pharmacy technicians to complete a state-approved training program and register with the state. The State Board of Pharmacy has not finalized regulations on what type of training will be required, and they will be exempting pharmacy technicians who are already working for a year prior to the law actually going into effect. 
      Here is a link to the Pennsylvania Board of Pharmacy if you want to read more: https://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/Pharmacy/Pages/Board-Laws-and-Regulations.aspx
      Sincerely,
      Aaron

    1. Florida requires completion of a state recognized training program to be eligible for licensure as a Registered Pharmacy Technician. To meet Florida’s requirement, a training program must include experiential (live on-the-job) training. Our course does not meet Florida’s requirement at this time as it is online learning only. If you are not already registered as a technician in the state, we advise that you seek out a training program that will meet Florida’s requirement.

  13. good evening I am living in chicago il
    did your course meet the requirements pathway of become Pharmacy Technician?
    Thanks
    MOHAMMAD

    1. Hi Mohammad,

      Currently, you can register as a pharmacy technician in Illinois if you are at least 16 years of age and have or are working towards a high school diploma or equivalent. Many employers will desire those registered as certified pharmacy technicians, which requires that you both pass a national certification exam and complete an accredited training program or employer based training. Completing our course, passing the PTCE, then completing on-the-job training can help you attain this registration status.

      You can read more at the Illinois Board of Pharmacy website: https://www.idfpr.com/profs/pharm.asp

  14. Does this course meet all requirements to take the pharm tech certification test in NC? I tried searching myself but there’s so much info it’s overwhelming

  15. I live in Louisiana and will be moving to Mississippi next year, so I would like to know the easiest route to go.

    1. Mississippi allows initial registration as a pharmacy technician without certification or training. However, they do require pharmacy technician to attain national certification prior to the first renewal of the license. In addition, many employers may require national certification. Completing our course and passing the PTCE will meet this requirement. 

      Here is a link to the Mississippi Board of Pharmacy if you want to read more: https://www.mbp.ms.gov/Pages/Technician.aspx

      You have two options to get started as a pharmacy technician in Louisiana. You can get enrolled in a nationally accredited pharmacy technician training program, or you can take and pass one of the national certification exams. Either of those options will allow you to apply for a training registration. You will then have to complete the accredited training program that you signed up for or obtain 600 hours of on the job training within 2 years. Once you have done that you can apply for a full license.

      Our program does not meet the criteria for their nationally accredited training program option, but it would allow you to become eligible to take one of the certification exams which could help you get the requirements to get started. You should to take some time to read about this and decide which option is best for you but we’re happy to help you if you decide to choose our program.

      You can read more at the Louisiana Board of Pharmacy website: http://www.pharmacy.la.gov/index.cfm?md=pagebuilder&tmp=home&pid=426

  16. Hello, I was a Walgreens tech in WA for 2yrs but never completed my course because I got a new job in a hospital. I have the experience and education but not the certificate. Can I take this course to complete my education so I can take my exam and be certified in WA?

    1. Washington requires all pharmacy technicians to complete a state approved training program. To be approved, a training program must include experiential (on-the-job) training. Online-only education programs, such as ours, will not satisfy this requirement. We advise that you seek out a program that is ACPE/ASHP accredited or state approved. You may be able to find a pharmacy employer with an accredited training program who is willing to hire interns, saving you the expense of attending a diploma-based program.

      You can read more at the Washington Board of Pharmacy website: https://www.doh.wa.gov/LicensesPermitsandCertificates/ProfessionsNewReneworUpdate/PharmacyProfessions/LicensingInformation#heading66755

    1. Georgia does not have any advanced certification or training requirements for pharmacy technician registration. However, state regulations require at least one technician to be certified in certain work environments. Therefore, many employers may require national certification. Taking our course and passing the PTCE will meet this requirement.

      Here is a link to the Georgia Board of Pharmacy website: https://gbp.georgia.gov/faqs-other-information/pharmacy-technician-faqs

    1. Hi Gabriel,
      PTCB credentials are intended for use exclusively in the United States, and testing is generally only available in the U.S. unless you are serving on a military base overseas. If you are planning on moving to the states, it will depend in which state you are planning on moving to.

    1. Hi Heather,
      Florida requires completion of a state recognized training program to be eligible for licensure as a Registered Pharmacy Technician. To meet Florida’s requirement, a training program must include experiential (live on-the-job) training. Our course does not meet Florida’s requirement at this time as it is online learning only. If you are not already registered as a technician in the state, we advise that you seek out a training program that will meet Florida’s requirement.

  17. Hi, I am interested in the pharmacy tech program, and I am from California. I would like to know if this course meets all the required licensing and credentials to work in CALIFORNIA.
    Also, is this enough to write CA pharmacy tech licensing?
    Is this course enough to work as a pharmacy tech in CA? Thank you.

    1. Hi there,
      Accordingly to Board rules at the time of this comment, taking our course and passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam will meet the Pharmacy Technician specific Education/Training requirement in the State of California. This is an efficient way to meet the state requirement, and we get a lot of students from California for this reason. Alternatively, you could complete a training program approved by the California Board of Pharmacy without taking the PTCE. Training programs considered to be state approved must meet one of the following criteria:
      • Associate Degree in Pharmacy Technology
      • Any other course that provides a training period of at least 240 hours of instruction as specified in Title 16 California Code of Regulation section 1793.6(c)
      • Training course accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists(ASHP)
      • Graduation from a school of pharmacy accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE)

  18. Hi, I am interested in the pharmacy tech
    program, and I am from Rhoda Island. I would like to know if this course meets all the required licensing and credentials to work in RI.
    Is this course enough to work as a pharmacy tech in RI? Thank you.

    1. Hi there,
      Great question! These rules change all the time so please keep that in mind. But at the time I am writing this, Rhode Island has two tiers of pharmacy technician licensure: Tech I and Tech II. You can apply for Tech I registration without any advanced training or certification. Tech II requires national certification. Completing our course and passing the PTCE would satisfy that requirement. You will want to review the application requirements to see what other items you will need to consider: https://health.ri.gov/licenses/detail.php?id=275

    1. Hi CJ,
      This must be done through the health agency that oversees the practice of pharmacy in your state. It is usually a State Board of Pharmacy or other State Health Office. Let me know which state in particular you are looking to practice in and I can point you in the right direction.

  19. I am seeking pharmacy tech certification and I reside in the state of Virginia. Will this online course and the ptce exam meet the requirements for me?

    1. Beginning in July 2022, Virginia now requires prospective pharmacy technician registrants to have completed a fully accredited training program. These include program accredited by ASHP/ACPE, the Department of Education, and the military. Given the requirements of live training for these accreditations, online only programs such as ours are ineligible. Please see this link for more information: https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/pharmacy/pharmacy_faq.htm#TechRegistration.

    1. Hi Kimberly,
      We are currently offering the course at $249. It is self-paced, and we recommend planning on spending around 120 hours going through the program. Most students finish in 2-4 months, although it is possible to do it in less time if you can dedicate enough hours during the week.

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