What is a Pharmacy Technician?
Working under the supervision of pharmacists, a Pharmacy Technician assists pharmacists in dispensing prescription medication to customers and health care professionals. Pharmacists review prescriptions before they are dispensed to patients. Technicians may operate automated dispensing equipment and, in some cases, can mix certain medications.
What type of job responsibilities does a Pharmacy Technician typically have?
Pharmacy Technicians may help pharmacists by doing the following:
- Packaging and labeling prescriptions
- Measuring amounts of medication for prescriptions
- Entering customer or patient information into a computer system
- Arranging for customers to speak with pharmacists if customers have questions about medications
- Maintaining proper storage and security conditions for drugs
- Receiving and storing incoming supplies
- Receiving written prescription or refill requests and verify that information is accurate
Where do Pharmacy Technicians work?
Along with hospitals, a Pharmacy Technician may work in retail pharmacies, drug stores, grocery stores, and ambulatory health care services.
What Pharmacy Technician courses will I want to take?
Here is a list of some of the classes that a Pharmacy Tech may take while enrolled in a Pharmacy Technician certification program:
- Pharmacology
- Pharmacy Math
- Pharmacy Laboratory Skills
- Fundamentals of Chemistry
- Pharmacy Law and Ethics
- Medical and Pharmaceutical Terminology
How can you pursue a career as a Pharmacy Technician?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, you may pursue a career as a Pharmacy Technician by first completing postsecondary pharmacy technician programs in pharmacy technology at a community college or vocational school. Programs might award certificates in as little as a year or less unless you enroll in a two year associate’s degree program. Topics like recordkeeping, pharmacy law, ways of dispensing medications, and learning the names, doses, and uses of various medications are learned. You may also gain clinical experience by hands on learning opportunities in a pharmacy setting.
Check with your state’s Board of Pharmacy for specific regulations since most states oversee pharmacy technician certification in some manner. Basic requirements may be: High school diploma or GED, criminal background check, formal education or training program, exam, fees, and continuing education.
Certification may be a necessity in some states and with certain employers so it is a good idea to find out more about how to become certified. Certification could even make it easier to find a job! Potential employers might even pay for their Pharmacy Technicians to sit for the certification exam. The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and the National Health Career Association (NHA) each offer certifications.
Pharmacy Technician Salary Potential
A Pharmacy technician salary might fluctuate a bit. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- Median annual wage for pharmacy technicians in 2020 $35,100.
- Job outlook is anticipated to grow 4% from 2019 to 2029, as fast as average.
The BLS also lists the states with the highest employment levels within this occupation are: Texas, California, Florida, Illinois and New York. States with the highest paying salaries are California, Alaska, Washington, District of Columbia and Oregon.
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Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in California
Do I need any certification to become a Pharmacy Technician in California?
According to the California State Board of Pharmacy, pharmacy technicians in California are regulated by the state but are not required to earn national certification. However, per the BLS, some employers may prefer to hire a pharmacy technician who is certified and in some cases, certification may make it easier to find employment. Certification may demonstrate an advanced knowledge in that subject area.
Which certifications are approved in California?
The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) may be accepted by the state of California, as is the National Healthcare Association Pharmacy Technician Certification Program (ExCPT).
Am I required to have a license to become a Pharmacy Technician in California?
Yes, per the California State Board of Pharmacy anyone wanting to work as a pharmacy technician in the state of California must receive a license from the state board. In order to become licensed, you will need to submit a written application to the California state board. Waiting to hear back could take up to three months.
What are the initial requirements to become licensed as a Pharmacy Technician in California?
According to the PTCB:
- Must possess a high school diploma or GED
- You must possess one of four things: proof of armed services training as a pharmacy tech, a PTCB certification, an ExCPT certification, or an affidavit of completed coursework or graduation. Course work could include any of the following: Associates Degree in Pharmacy Technology, a minimum of 240 hours of instruction from a pharmacist, graduation from a school of pharmacy accredited by the ACPE.
- Must pass a federal and state background check as well as submit your fingerprints
- Must include your application fee
- Include a photo
Does my Pharm Tech License ever expire in CA?
Yes, according to the California State Board of Pharmacy, the license will expire every two years and require renewal. Approximately 90 days before the expiration date of your license, a renewal application will be mailed to your last known address of record. It takes a minimum of three weeks to process your renewal and another three weeks to receive the renewed license in the mail.
Is their training required to become a pharm tech in CA?
Yes, per the PTCB, some level of training is required. The state currently offers multiple options as noted above.
Are there any Pharmacy Technician Professional Organizations in California?
Joining a professional pharmacy tech organization may be a great way for new graduates to enhance their pharmacy technician careers. There are a few such professional organizations including:
- The California Pharmacy Technician Association (CPTA)
- The National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA)
- The California Pharmacists Association
- The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP)
By being a member of a pharmacy technician professional association, you may be able to provide yourself with opportunities to meet others in the industry and find out helpful information about continuing education, networking and professional development, and regional meetings. These associations may charge annual fees for membership.
How do I contact the California State Board?
California Board of Pharmacy
Office: 1625 N Market Blvd, N219
Sacramento, CA 95834
Voice: 916-574-7900
Fax: 916-574-8618
www.pharmacy.ca.gov
Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Texas
Do I need any certification to become a Pharmacy Technician in Texas?
Pharmacy technicians in Texas are regulated by the state per the PTCB and are required to earn national certification. In order to comply with Texas state laws, you should seek national certification before pursuing career opportunities in this field.
Which certifications are approved in Texas?
The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) is accepted in Texas, per the Texas State Board of Pharmacy as is the National Heathcareer Association (NHA) certification.
Am I required to have a license to become a Pharmacy Technician in Texas?
Yes. In order to work as a pharmacy technician in Texas, you must apply for a license from the Texas State Board of Pharmacy. Application approval takes a minimum of 2-3 weeks.
What are the initial requirements to become licensed as a Pharmacy Technician in Texas?
According to the PTCB:
- Must possess certification
- Must pass a criminal background check and submit your fingerprints
- Must pay an application fee
- Must possess a high school diploma or GED
Does my Pharm Tech License ever expire in TX?
Yes. Per the Texas State Board of Pharmacy, your license will expire every two years and will need to be renewed. Online renewal will become available 60 days prior to expiration.
Keep in mind that the Texas State Board of Pharmacy requires pharmacy technicians to complete 20 hours of continuing education (CE) per renewal period.
Is there training required to become a pharm tech in TX?
While no formal training is required for initial registration, the Texas State Board of Pharmacy recognizes the value of training programs and encourages prospective pharmacy techs to consider their education options. The Board offers an approved list of ASHP-accredited pharmacy technician training programs to check out.
Are there any Pharmacy Technician Professional Organizations in Texas?
Professional pharmacy tech organizations could be an awesome way for new graduates to get more involved in their career field! A few state and national professional organizations for pharmacy techs are available, including:
- Texas Pharmacy Association (TPA)
- The National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA)
- American Association of Pharmacy Technicians (AAPT)
- Texas Society of Health-System Pharmacists (TSHP)
Joining a pharmacy technician professional association is often a great opportunity to meet likeminded people who share your career path. You could also network with industry pros, engage in continuing education and professional development, and get involved in fun events. These associations may charge annual membership fees.
How do I contact the Texas State Board?
Texas State Board of Pharmacy
Office: William P. Hobby Building
Tower 3, Suite 600
333 Guadalupe Street
Austin, TX 78701
Voice: (512) 305-8000
Fax: (512) 305-8082
www.pharmacy.texas.gov
Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Florida
Do I need any certification to become a Pharmacy Technician in Florida?
According to the PTCB, the state of Florida regulates pharmacy technicians but does not require them to earn national certification. However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics says that certification may make it easier for pharmacy technicians to find employment.
Which certifications are approved in Florida?
While no certification is required in Florida, the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) is accepted. There are 17,988 active PTCB certified pharmacy technicians in Florida!
Am I required to have a license to become a Pharmacy Technician in Florida?
Yes, all pharmacy techs in Florida must register for licensure with the Florida Board of Pharmacy. After your initial application, you should be notified of your status within 30 days. Once the license is issued, it typically takes about seven days to receive your copy.
What are the initial requirements to become licensed as a Pharmacy Technician in Florida?
According to the Florida Board of Pharmacy:
- Must complete a board-approved pharmacy technician training program
- Must submit an application and related fees
- Must submit your criminal history and supporting documents, if applicable.
- Must be at least 17 years of age
Does my Pharm Tech License ever expire in FL?
Yes, per the Florida Board of Pharmacy, your license will require biennial renewal (every two years). As of 2019, renewal requires $55 renewal fee and completion of 20 hours of continuing education (CE). All continuing education must be approved by either the Florida Board of Pharmacy or ACPE (Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education).
Is there training required to become a pharm tech in FL?
Yes, the Florida Board of Pharmacy requires pharmacy technicians to complete an approved training program.
Florida accepts pharmacy tech training programs approved by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, the Florida Commission for Independent Education (CIE), the Council on Occupational Education, and programs offered by a branch of the federal armed services for which the candidate has a certificate of completion. Other pharmacy technician training programs may not be acceptable and should be pre-approved by the board.
Are there any Pharmacy Technician Professional Organizations in Florida?
Want to get more involved in the pharmacy technician field? Professional pharmacy tech organizations are a great resource for recent graduates. Check out some of these state and national professional organizations for pharmacy techs:
- Florida Pharmacy Association (FPA)
- The National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA)
- American Association of Pharmacy Technicians (AAPT)
- Florida Society of Health-System Pharmacists (FSHP)
Joining a pharmacy technician professional association could offer a variety of benefits, from networking and meeting others in your field to continuing your education and professional development. A professional organization is also a great way to have fun and participate in industry events. Many associations charge annual membership fees but offer lots of great resources for members.
How do I contact the Florida State Board?
Florida Board of Pharmacy Office: Department of Health
Board of Pharmacy
4052 Bald Cypress Way
Bin C-04
Tallahassee, FL 32399-3258
Voice: (850) 245-4292
Fax: 850-413-6982
floridaspharmacy.gov
Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Illinois
Do I need any certification to become a Pharmacy Technician in Illinois?
Illinois pharmacy technicians are regulated by the state per the PTCB, and they’re also required to earn national certification. It’s important to fulfill the certification requirement if you plan to pursue this career path.
Which certifications are approved in Illinois?
The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and Institute for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ICPT) are both accepted in Illinois. Currently, there are 1,258 active PTCB certified pharmacy technicians in Illinois. Per the PTCB, to qualify for PTCB certification, candidates must have a high school diploma or GED, be in compliance with the PTCB code of conduct and other policies, and pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), in addition to paying an application fee of $129.
ICPT certification has similar requirements, but keep in mind that in order to qualify for the ExCPT exam, applicants should have proof of completing either an approved pharmacy technician training program or approved employer-provided training. If it’s been five or more years since you completed training, you must have at least 1200 hours of qualifying work experience within any one year of the past three years. It’s a good idea to double-check all requirements for certification well in advance of applying, to make sure you’re ready to go!
Am I required to have a license to become a Pharmacy Technician in Illinois?
Yes, per the PTCB, you must register for a license from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Pharmacy applicants may assist a registered pharmacist up to 60 days prior to receiving their issued certificate, as long as they have submitted the application and fee.
What are the initial requirements to become licensed as a Pharmacy Technician in Illinois?
According to IDFPR:
- High school diploma or GED
- Proof of pharmacy technician education/training and certification
- Must submit an application and fee
- Must be 18 to obtain CERTIFIED pharmacy technician designation
Does my Pharm Tech License ever expire in IL?
Yes. Your license will expire annually on March 31, regardless of the date when it was issued. To renew your pharmacy technician license in Illinois, visit the license renewal page of the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation: www.idfpr.com/Renewals/defaultSSL.asp. Select “Pharmacy Technician” from the list of professions with licenses up for renewal, and follow the instructions to renew! Just keep in mind that if your license is not up for renewal, you won’t see your profession listed until the time comes.
Is there training required to become a pharm tech in IL?
Yes. In Illinois, the pharmacy that employs you must make sure you have received training both on the job and through a formal program per the Illinois Board of Pharmacy. You will need to provide proof of training when you apply for your license: either a copy of your pharmacy technician program certificate or diploma, or a statement from the pharmacist-in-charge at the pharmacy where you work, proving you have received the training required by the state of Illinois.
Are there any Pharmacy Technician Professional Organizations in Illinois?
Want to get more involved in your career field? Joining a professional organization for pharmacy techs in Illinois could be a great next step! Here are a few state and national professional organizations to consider:
- Illinois Council of Health-System Pharmacists (ICHP)
- Illinois Pharmacy Association (IPHA)
- The National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA)
- American Association of Pharmacy Technicians (AAPT)
What are the potential benefits of joining a pharmacy technician professional association in Illinois? For one, you could meet other professionals who share your passion for your career. You could also network in your industry, get involved in cool events and initiatives, and stay up-to-date on professional development. Keep in mind that many professional associations charge annual membership fees.
How do I contact the Illinois State Board?
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
Office: 320 West Washington Street,
Springfield, Illinois 62786
Voice: (217) 785 – 0820
https://www.idfpr.com/profs/pharm.asp
Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in New York
Do I need any certification to become a Pharmacy Technician in New York?
New York is one of only a few states that do not regulate pharmacy technicians per the PTCB. That means certification is not required for a pharmacy tech career in this state. However, it’s worth considering other benefits of earning certification. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, certification may make it easier to find employment, and in some case employers may even pay for it!
Which certifications are approved in New York?
While no certifications are required in New York, the Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) as two organizations that offer national pharmacy tech certification.
Am I required to have a license to become a Pharmacy Technician in New York?
No, per the PTCB pharmacy technicians in New York are not required to have a license. However, if you choose to pursue career opportunities in another state, you may need to obtain licensure.
Is there training required to become a pharm tech in NY?
Because New York does not regulate pharmacy technicians, there is no formal training required by the state according to the PTCB. However, employers may have their own requirements. While some pharmacy technicians learn on the job, others attend a postsecondary certificate program in pharmacy technology or a similar program to learn about medicine doses, uses, dispensing techniques, and more. And keep in mind that if you want to earn certification, formal education may be a requirement.
Are there any Pharmacy Technician Professional Organizations in New York?
Professional organizations can be a great way to get involved in the pharmacy tech field. Here are a few state and national professional organizations to consider:
- New York State Council of Health-system Pharmacists (NYSCHP)
- Pharmacists Society of the State of New York (PSSNY)
- The National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA)
- American Association of Pharmacy Technicians (AAPT)
Why join a pharmacy technician professional association in New York? For one, it could be a good way to meet like-minded professionals and network in your industry. You could also find professional development opportunities, learn about breakthroughs in the field of pharmacy, and participate in social events. Many professional associations have an annual membership charge, but for some members, it’s well worth the fee.
How do I contact the New York State Board?
New York Office of the Professions
Office: Registration Unit, State Education Building – 2nd Floor
Albany, NY 12234
Voice: 518-474-3817
Fax: 212-951-6420
www.op.nysed.gov/
Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Washington
Do I need any certification to become a Pharmacy Technician in Washington?
According to the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board, Pharmacy technicians employed in Washington State are regulated by the state and are required to earn national certification. That qualification is obtained by taking the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board exam (PTCB), a two-hour, multiple-choice test that assesses a candidate’s knowledge in nine areas, including pharmacology for technicians, medication safety, pharmacy inventory management, pharmacy laws and regulations, among others.
Which certifications are approved in Washington?
The Washington Pharmacy Board requires that you provide proof of passing the national pharmacy technician certification examination that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). That includes the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board exam (PTCB), which is administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), and the National Healthcareer Association’s ICTP certification. There are currently 5,191 active PCTB certified pharmacy technicians in Washington.
Am I required to have a license to become a Pharmacy Technician in Washington?
Yes, per the PTCB you are required to get a license in order to work in Washington State. In order to become licensed, you must submit a completed application form, a Verification of Law Study evaluation, and certification of training as well as other requirements.
What are the initial requirements to become licensed as a Pharmacy Technician in Washington?
Per the PTCB:
- Complete an application form that asks for demographic information such as legal name, date of birth, birthplace, address, contact information and other names you have been known as. The application also requires the completion of the Personal Data Questions section, which asks about any medical conditions that would impair you to work as a pharmacy technician, any drug and alcohol use, the illegal use of controlled substances and if you have been convicted of a crime. The application also asks that you verify you have completed a minimum of four hours of AIDS prevention, transmission and treatment education.
- Provide verification that you successfully completed an approved training program that allows you to work as a pharmacy technician in the state of Washington. Official transcripts of a diploma or certificate are required, in addition to a school catalog describing the coursework you took.
- Provide proof that you passed a national pharmacy technician examination administered by a program accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) and that you completed practical training as well.
- Payment of application fee
Will my Pharm Tech License ever expire in WA?
Yes, per the Washington State Department of Health, the license will expire annually, on your birthday. Approximately 90 days before the expiration date of your license, you can go to the Washington State Dept. of Health website to renew your license online for a $2.50 fee, as of 2019. If you choose to renew online, you don’t have to mail your renewal notice to the department.
In addition to renewing your license, as a certified pharmacy technician in the State of Washington you are also expected to complete 10 hours of continuing education, including one hour in pharmacy law.
Is there training required to become a pharm tech in WA?
Yes, per the PTCB, some level of training is required. The state currently offers multiple options.
Are there any Pharmacy Technician Professional Organizations in Washington?
There are several professional pharmacy organizations that new pharmacy technician graduates may want to consider joining. They include:
- The Washington State Pharmacy Association (WSPA)
- The American Association of Pharmacy Technicians (AAPT)
- The Washington State Association of Pharmacy Technicians (WSAPT)
- The National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA)
Becoming a member of these types of associations may provide you with valuable networking opportunities through various regional meetings and get-togethers and will also give you the chance to explore continuing education opportunities.
How do I contact the State Board in Washington?
Washington State Board of Pharmacy
Office: P.O. Box 47852,
Olympia, WA 98504
Voice: 360-236-2260
Fax: 360-236-2260
www.doh.wa.gov/LicensesPermitsandCertificates/ProfessionsNewReneworUpdate/PharmacyTechnician/LicenseRequirements
Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Alaska
Do I need any certification to become a Pharmacy Technician in Alaska?
The Alaska Board of Pharmacy does not require certification from pharmacy technicians, but does regulate them. That said, the state does accept ExCPT certification, which is the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians. ExCPT applicants need to be 18 years of age or older, have completed high school or its equivalent, be fluent in the English language (both spoken and written), and have not committed a felony in the five years prior to applying for the certification. Even if you sit for the ExCPT exam, you must submit an affidavit saying that you read the state’s statues and then have it signed by a pharmacist verifying that you completed the necessary training to work in the state of Alaska.
Which certifications are approved in Alaska?
As stated above, the state of Alaska accepts the ExCPT certification, which is the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians, accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).
Am I required to have a license to become a Pharmacy Technician in Alaska?
Yes, per the Alaska Board of Pharmacy you are required to get a license in order to work in Alaska. The Alaska Department of Commerce, Community & Economic Development Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing—which oversees the Alaska Board of Pharmacy—is in charge of the licensing requirements.
What are the initial requirements to become licensed as a Pharmacy Technician in Alaska?
Per the Alaska Board of Pharmacy:
- You must be at least 18 years older
- You must be able to read, write and speak the English language fluently
- You must have a high school diploma or equivalent
- You must not have been convicted of a felony that affects your ability to perform duties as a pharmacy technician
- You must submit an application fee and a license fee
Does my Pharm Tech License ever expire in AK?
Yes, the license will expire biennially (every two years) and will require renewal. As of 2019, the biennial renewal fee for a license is $30 or $60 depending on when your license was issued according to the Alaska Board of Pharmacy. When renewing your license, you will need to show that you have completed a total of 10 credits hours of continuing education in programs that are approved by the Alaska Pharmacists Association, the Pharmacy Certification Board or the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE).
Is there training required to become a pharmacy tech in AK?
Yes, some level of training is required, usually under the direction of the pharmacist.
Pharmacy Technician Professional Organizations in Alaska
Alaska has some professional pharmacy organizations that are open to pharmacy technician graduates, including:
- Alaska Pharmacists Association (AKPhA)
- National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP)
- American Pharmacists Association (APhA)
Joining such groups is a good idea since networking with your peers and others in the same field may alert you to all sorts of career. You may meet professionals who can give you advice about continuing your education and helping you prepare for the challenges of a career path as a pharmacy technician. These associations may charge annual fees for membership.
How do I contact the Alaska State Board?
Alaska Board of Pharmacy
Alaska Department of Commerce, Community & Economic Development
Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing
P.O. Box 110806
Juneau, AK 99811-0806
Phone: 907-465-2589
Fax: 907-465-2974
https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/
Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Oregon
Do I need any certification to become a Pharmacy Technician in Oregon?
Pharmacy technicians employed in Oregon are regulated by the state and must receive national certification through either the PTCB (Pharmacy Technician Certification Board) or the NHA (National Health Career Association). The PTCB administers the PTCE (Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam) while the NWA administers the ExCPT exam, which gives successful candidates the title of Certified Pharmacy Technician CPhT.
Per the PTCB, in order to achieve PCTB certification, candidates must satisfy the following requirements:
- Hold a high school diploma or its equivalent such as a GED or an accepted foreign diploma
- No history of crime
- Be in compliance with PTCB certification policies
- Have a passing score on the PTCE
Which certifications are approved in Oregon?
As stated above, the state of Oregon accepts the PTCB and CPhT certifications.
Am I required to have a license to become a Pharmacy Technician in Oregon?
Yes, the Oregon Board of Pharmacy states that licensure is required by pharmacy techs working in Oregon. You must hold a high school diploma or GED. And, you must pass either the PTCE or ExCPT exams and hold active national certification.
What are the initial requirements to become licensed as a Pharmacy Technician in Oregon?
- The application form must be filled out, signed and dated. You’ll need to supply your contact information, social security number, certification details, prior pharmacy work experience, previous pharmacy tech training and a record of examinations taken, high school education, criminal history or other violations of the law other than speeding or parking tickets. You will also need to include any medical conditions that would impair your work as a pharmacy tech and any prior drug use, among other questions.
- As of 2019, certified Oregon pharmacy technicians must submit an application fee of $91.25, a copy of your national certification through either the PTCB or the NHA, your birth certificate, a color copy of the front and back of your driver license or state-issued ID OR your passport, documentation of any arrests or violations, and a completed application. Other requirements may apply.
Does my Pharmacist Tech license ever expire in OR?
Yes. The Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician License expires June 30 of even-numbered years. Renewals must be postmarked by May 30th, one month before expiration.
Is there training required to become a pharmacy tech in OR?
No formal training is required according to the Oregon Board of Pharmacy. That said, most pharmacy technicians pursue on-the-job training, education, or both according to the BLS.
Are there any Pharmacy Technician Professional Organizations in Oregon?
Oregon has a professional association for pharmacy professionals, including pharmacy technician graduates. Two additional national organizations, listed below, should also be helpful to recent pharmacy tech grads.
- The Oregon State Pharmacy Association (OSPA)
- National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP)
- American Pharmacists Association (APhA)
Joining groups like these may be a great way to find out about new career opportunities, learn about continuing education, and meet pharmacy professionals with several years of experience in the industry. Some of these associations may require a membership fee
How do I contact the Oregon State Board?
The Oregon State Board of Pharmacy Information
Portland State Office Building
800 NE Oregon St., Suite 150
Portland, OR 97232-2162
Voice: 971-673-0001
Fax: 971-673-0002
https://www.oregon.gov/Pharmacy/pages/index.aspx
Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Hawaii
Do I need any certification to become a Pharmacy Technician in Hawaii?
Pharmacy technicians in Hawaii are not regulated by the state according to the PTCB. However, the PTCE (Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination) is approved by the state of Hawaii. This national exam is used to measure the knowledge the pharmacy techs will need to support licensed pharmacists, including medication safety and pharmacy information systems. The two-hour exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. As of 2019, a $129 fee is required to take the test.
To achieve certification, candidates must satisfy the following requirements:
- Hold a high school diploma or its equivalent such as a GED or an accepted foreign diploma
- No history of crime
- Be in compliance with PTCB certification policies
- Have a passing score on the PTCE
Which certifications are approved in Hawaii?
As stated above, the state of Hawaii accepts the PTCB certification, which is administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board.
Am I required to have a license to become a Pharmacy Technician in Hawaii?
No, licensure is not required by pharmacy techs working in Hawaii according to the PTCB.
Is there training required to become a pharmacy tech in HI?
No formal training is required, as stated by the PTCB, but you will have to work under the direction of a licensed pharmacist before gaining certification and working in the field.
Are there any Pharmacy Technician Professional Organizations in Hawaii?
Hawaii has a few associations for pharmacy professionals, including pharmacy technician graduates, which should also be useful to industry newcomers.
- The Hawaii Pharmacists Association (HPhA)
- National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP)
- American Pharmacists Association (APhA)
Joining groups like these may be a good idea for networking with peers who might be able to alert you to all sorts of career opportunities. Meeting professionals who can give you advice about continuing education opportunities may also help you prepare to pursue a career as a pharmacy technician.
How do I contact the Hawaii State Board?
The Hawaii State Board of Pharmacy Information
PO Box 3469
Honolulu, HI 96801
Voice: 808-586-2694
Fax: 808-586-2874
http://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/pharmacy/