5 steps to pharmacy technician certification
- Apply for your exam Create a free NHA account online, anytime, and submit your ExCPT exam application through your account portal.
- Set a date Select the date and location–online or in-person–for your exam. (An ExCPT exam fee payment is required during this step.)
- Prepare, prepare, prepare Time to study! We're here to support you. We have study materials available, including an interactive study guide and ExCPT practice test.
- Take the exam You'll take the 100-question ExCPT exam at a PSI testing center near you, or through live remote proctoring at the location of your choice.
- Get your results For online exams, NHA will officially post your certification results to your account page within two days of scoring your test.
Full Answer
What credentials do you need to become a pharmacy technician?
- High School Diploma or GED.
- Pharmacy Technician Training Program Certificate (Must be accredited by the American Society of Health Systems Pharmacist (ASHP) or recognized by Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).)
- Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) certificate or the National Healthcareer Associate ExCPT certificate (NHA ExCPT). ...
How to get certified as pharmacy technician?
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- You will have to report any criminal records.
- Compliance with PTCB policies. These include obeying pharmacy laws, providing accurate information, not disclosing details of examination processes, provide ethical and legal service to customers.
- Obtain a passing score on the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE). ...
How to be a successful pharmacy technician?
That means that you:
- Leave personal issues at home.
- Turn your phone off, or leave it in your purse or a personal space — not in your pocket where you’ll be tempted to scroll social media or text friends.
- Get plenty of sleep. ...
- Eat enough food. ...
- Keep your work area — like the customer counter and other areas in the pharmacy — clean and free of clutter.
Why you should consider a career as a pharmacy technician?
- It’s Always Going to Be Necessary. ...
- There Are Many Different Types of Jobs Available. ...
- Pharmacists Make a Lot of Money. ...
- Pharmacists Get to Help People. ...
- You’ll Be Part of a Friendly and Welcoming Community. ...
- You’ll Be Able to Move With Ease. ...
- You’ll Be Playing a Huge Role in the Healthcare System. ...
- You’ll Become Highly Educated. ...
- Your Work Will Be Meaningful. ...
How often is the PTCB exam offered?
The Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) is offered continuously throughout the year at Pearson VUE test centers. This means that there isn't a limited number of exam appointment dates. Available exam appointment times will be available to view and schedule after your application has been approved.
What is the minimum passing score for the PTCB exam?
1,400What is the minimum passing score for the PTCB exam? A passing score is 1,400, with the range of possible scores on the exam being between 1,000 and 1,600.
Are you allowed a calculator on the PTCB exam?
You are allowed to use a calculator on the PTCB exam. However, you will not be allowed to bring in your own calculator. You will be provided an erasable board and a handheld calculator.
How hard is the pharmacy tech exam?
Whether the PTCB exam is difficult for you will depend on a variety of factors, including how good you are at test-taking, how much you've studied, and which questions you are given. The average pass rate for the PTCE from 1995-2020 is 72%. In the year 2020, 70% of test-takers passed the test.
How many questions can I miss on the PTCB?
you have to get at least 650 out of 900...that means you have to do 65 right and with 25 you can take chance..
What should I study for the PTCB exam 2022?
There are sixteen core math topics to prepare for the 2022 PTCB exam.Dosing / quantity.Formulas.Alligations.Concentrations.Dilutions.Conversions.Roman numerals.Prescription interpretation.More items...•
How long does it take to prepare for Ptcb exam?
Although the amount of time it takes to prepare varies between different people, it's a good idea to allow 1-2 months to revise before the day of your test.
How long does it take to get Ptcb results?
Official score reports are typically available within three weeks from your exam date. PTCB cannot expedite the processing of exam results or certification information.
What does the Ptcb test consist of?
The format of the PTCB exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. But there's a small catch to keep in mind—only 80 of the multiple-choice questions are scored, while 10 are not. Of course, as the test taker, you won't know which ones count and which ones don't, as they're spread randomly throughout the test.
What is the difference between Ptcb and PTCE?
PTCE stands for Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam. So while the PTCB refers to the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board, the PTCE refers specifically to the actual exam that must be passed in order to be certified by the PTCB.
How long does it take to get your PTCB score?
Official score reports are typically available within three weeks from your exam date. PTCB cannot expedite the processing of exam results or certification information.
What is the passing score for the ExCPT exam?
390The maximum score is 900, while the lowest score is 300. You will achieve at least a 300 on the PTCE, but it takes a score of 650 or better to pass the exam! The passing score for the ExCPT is 390, and scores may range from 200 to 500.
How long should you study for the PTCB?
Although the amount of time it takes to prepare varies between different people, it's a good idea to allow 1-2 months to revise before the day of your test.
How do I find my PTCB scores?
Official score reports are generally available online approximately one to three weeks following a candidate's exam. * At the request of a candidate, examination results or scores can be emailed to the candidate's email address currently on file with PTCB.
What is the role of pharmacy tech?
Pharmacy technicians play a crucial role in providing safe and effective patient care, with duties including: NHA partners with educators and employers across the United States to educate, train and certify pharmacy technicians. Find an open job near you to start your journey toward this rewarding and in-demand career.
How to get a pharmacy technician certification?
5 steps to pharmacy technician certification 1 Apply for your exam#N#Create a free NHA account online, anytime, and submit your ExCPT exam application through your account portal. 2 Set a date#N#Select the date and location–online or in-person–for your exam. (An ExCPT exam fee payment is required during this step.) 3 Prepare, prepare, prepare#N#Time to study! We're here to support you. We have study materials available, including an interactive study guide and ExCPT practice test. 4 Take the exam#N#You'll take the 100-question ExCPT exam at a PSI testing center near you, or through live remote proctoring at the location of your choice. 5 Get your results#N#For online exams, NHA will officially post your certification results to your account page within two days of scoring your test.
What to do when you create an NHA account?
When you create your NHA account, be sure to select your organization type, school or training center, or employer in order to: Access any pre-purchased materials or exams available to you. Take advantage of possible discounts. Share your exam results with your school or employer.
What percentage of employers require pharmacy technicians to be certified?
90% of employers require or encourage certification for pharmacy technicians. (Source: 2020 Industry Outlook)
What percentage of employers require or encourage certification for pharmacy technicians?
90% of employers require or encourage certification for pharmacy technicians.
What is the NHA?
NHA partners with educators and employers across the United States to educate, train and certify pharmacy technicians. Find an open job near you to start your journey toward this rewarding and in-demand career.
How much does a pharmacy technician make?
Pharmacy technician's salary ranges from $22,740–$48,010, according to the BLS in 2019.
What is the name of the organization that certifies pharmacy technicians?
The primary organizations that offer certification are the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Both agencies are certified by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) and are recognized in all 50 states. Find Schools.
What are the requirements for PTCB?
The PTCB requires that the following prerequisites be satisfied before sitting for their exam: High school diploma or equivalent. Full disclosure of all criminal of State Board of Pharmacy actions against you. Compliance with all PTCB Certification policies.
Why is my PTCB certification revoked?
Candidates may be disqualified or have their certification revoked for any of the following reasons: Criminal conduct. State Board of Pharmacy actions involving the PhT. Violation of the PTCB Certification policy. The NHA has set forth the following prerequisites: High school diploma or requivalent.
How long does it take to take the pharmacy technician exam?
Pharmacy Technician Practice Exams. As we mentioned, you only have one and a half to two hours to take the pharmacy technician exam, depending on who is administering the test. You’ve worked hard to get to this point, paid the fee for the exam, and you want to pass it the first time.
What does it mean to be a pharmacy technician?
Having professional pharmacy technician certification demonstrates that you have proven knowledge and experience in the field of pharmacology. As you search for jobs, you will automatically have a competitive advantage over those who do not have credentials.
What percentage of the NHA exam is medication control?
Maintaining Medication and Inventory Control Systems (22% of exam) Participating in the Administration and Management of Pharmacy Practice (12% of exam) The NHA doesn’t release information specific to their exam, but they do offer a variety of test preparation kits available to applicants.
How old do you have to be to become a NHA?
The NHA has set forth the following prerequisites: High school diploma or requivalent. Candidate must be at least 18 years old. Successful completion of a training program or one-year work experience in the field. Candidates may be required to provide proof or work experience or training program.
What is the PTCE?
The Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) is a computer-based exam given by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB.) Tests are administered at Pearson VUE test centers nationwide or, due to COVID-19, you can take a proctored exam from your home computer. Visit the PTCB website to see a complete list of temporary adjustments in effect for COVID-19.
Can you take a test at Pearson?
If you choose to take your exam at one of the Pearson testing centers, take note to: Be sure to dress comfortably. Take a jacket in case the room is cold. You will not be permitted to take anything in the testing room with you except materials (pencil, calculator, scratch paper) that is provided by the testing center.
What is a pharmacy technician?
A pharmacy technician 's role in a pharmacy is to provide technical services that do not require professional judgment regarding preparing and distributing drugs. A pharmacy technician works under the direct supervision of and is responsible to a pharmacist. This application is for an individual who has never been licensed with TSBP as ...
What are the requirements to become a pharmacy technician?
A pharmacy technician applicant must have the following: A high school diploma, equivalent diploma (e.g., GED), or be working to achieve a high school diploma or equivalent for no more than two years; Current certification from a Board-approved pharmacy technician certification exam.
How long does it take to get a pharmacy technician license?
Allow a minimum of THREE weeks* for the application to be reviewed and processed. Once approved, a registration number is issued with an ACTIVE status. An applicant can NOT perform ANY Technician duties until a registration number has been assigned with an active status. Registrations can be verified online using the pharmacy technician license verification search.
How often do you have to renew your Texas pharmacy license?
Once registered with TSBP, you may begin working in a pharmacy. Your Texas registration has an expiration date and must be renewed every two years. You must also complete continuing education to qualify for renewal.
Can you print a technician registration certificate?
Note that TSBP no longer mails a technician registration certificate to the registrant. If your registration has been issued, you are now able to print your certificate on our website. Print out your registration certificate via this button:
Do pharmacy technicians have to notify the Board of Pharmacy?
Pharmacy technicians are required to notify the Board if any of the following changes occur:
Who will need to use Third Party Payer Instructions for completing the payment portion of the application process?
If another party will be paying for your application fee (such as a school, employer, etc.) they will need to use Third Party Payer Instructions for completing the payment portion of the application process.
What does medication history mean in a pharmacy?
Medication History indicates a CPhT has demonstrated the necessary training, experience, and knowledge to be entrusted to collect accurate medication histories from patients and identify potential medication errors in any pharmacy practice setting . Learn more »
What is a pharmacy technician certification?
Certifications assess an individual’s mastery of job knowledge, require Continuing Education, and award an acronym after one’s name. PTCB offers two national certification programs for pharmacy technicians: Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) is the foundation of a rewarding career as a pharmacy technician.
What is a CSPT?
Certified Compounded Sterile Preparation Technician® (CSPT®) demonstrates a CPhT’s knowledge and skill as a specialized pharmacy technician in compounded sterile preparation as well as their commitment to the role they play in ensuring medication safety. To apply, a candidate must be an active PTCB CPhT in good standing and satisfy PTCB’s education and/or work criteria. Learn more »
What is Pearson VUE tutorial?
The Pearson VUE tutorial provides a preview of the testing experience and functionality. The tutorial is not PTCE specific.
Where to send Pearson VUE form?
Forms should be completed and emailed to Pearson VUE at [email protected]. When Pearson VUE receives your request for group scheduling, they will contact you with more information.
What is point of care testing?
Point-of-Care Testing showcases advanced knowledge in the safe and accurate use, collection, and reporting of various point-of-care tests performed in the pharmacy. Learn more »
What is Hazardous Drug Management?
Hazardous Drug Management demonstrates that CPhTs have knowledge of defined guidelines and requirements for managing hazardous drugs and are prepared to play a vital role in helping ensure the safety of the facility. Learn more »
New Applicants
Pharmacy technicians new to the field should use the following instructions and documents to apply for registration with the Board. The application fee is $67. Use the following forms and instructions to complete the process:
Certification Exam
Any technician who is renewing a registration for the first time will need to provide proof of passing a national certification examination.
Exam Resources
Any technician who is unable to take or pass an approved exam may request a six-month extension at least 30 days before the technician's registration expiration date by completing an LA-75 Technician Certification Extension Request (Form LA-75).
Continuing Education
Pharmacy technicians are required to complete 20 hours of continuing education for each registration renewal period. Those hours must have been earned during the registration period.
Technician Renewal
Pharmacy technicians need to renew their registration every two years. Registrations expire on October 31, and the online renewal portal opens in mid-September for those expiring in the same year. In order to renew your registration:
Technician Reinstatement after Revocation
If your pharmacy technician registration has been revoked by the Kansas Board of Pharmacy, you must wait a minimum of one year from the date of revocation before applying for reinstatement.
Pharmacy Technician Renewal
Yes. Between September 5 and October 31, you can complete your renewal application and make payment online 24 hours a day, seven days a week from any location with Internet access. It only takes a few minutes and you will receive a confirmation when you finish, so you will know your renewal is complete.
What is a pharmacy technician trainee?
A pharmacy technician trainee is an individual who is registered with the Board and is authorized to participate in a pharmacy’s technician training program. Once approved, this registration enables an individual to work in a pharmacy for the length of the registration (no more than 2 years). During this time, the individual should be studying ...
How long does it take to get a technician license?
Allow a minimum of THREE weeks* for the application to be reviewed and processed. Once approved, a registration number is issued with an ACTIVE status. An applicant can NOT perform ANY Technician Trainee duties until a registration number has been assigned with an active status. Registrations can be verified online using the license verification search.
How long does it take to become a pharmacy technician?
An equivalent diploma (e.g., GED), Be working to achieve a high school diploma or equivalent for no more than 2 years. A pharmacy technician trainee must be able to complete the application that will, at minimum, request the following information: Full Legal Name.
What is the name that will be printed on your registration certificate?
IMPORTANT: Make sure to use you full legal name on all parts of the application , as this is the name that will be printed on your registration certificate. Ensure that your social security number is correct as this can cause a delay in processing fingerprints and your application.
Can you print a technician trainee certificate?
Note that TSBP no longer mails a technician trainee registration certificate to the registrant. If your registration has been issued, you are now able to print your certificate on our website. Print out your registration certificate via this button:
Can a pharmacy technician have a social security number?
Social Security Number. A pharmacy technician trainee cannot have: A current/active PTCB or ExCPT Certification. Been previously registered with TSBP as a Pharmacy Technician or a Pharmacy Technician Registration.
Do pharmacy technicians have to notify the Board of Pharmacy?
Pharmacy technicians are required to notify the Board if any of the following changes occur:
