Pharmacy Technician Certification: Your Complete Guide To Getting Certified In 2025
Becoming a certified pharmacy technician opens doors to a rewarding healthcare career with excellent job prospects and competitive pay. If you’re considering this path, understanding the certification process is your first step toward success. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about pharmacy technician certification—from requirements to exam preparation and career benefits.
What Is Pharmacy Technician Certification?
Pharmacy technician certification is a professional credential that validates your knowledge and skills in pharmacy practice. While requirements vary by state, certification demonstrates to employers that you’ve met national standards for competency in medication dispensing, pharmacy law, patient safety, and pharmaceutical calculations.
The two primary certifying organizations are:
- Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) – Offers the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential
- National Healthcareer Association (NHA) – Offers the ExCPT (Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians) credential
Why Get Certified?
Higher Earning Potential
Certified pharmacy technicians earn significantly more than their non-certified counterparts (typically 15-25% higher salaries). The average certified pharmacy technician earns between $38,000 and $48,000 annually, with experienced professionals in specialized settings earning even more.
Better Job Opportunities
Many employers now require or strongly prefer certification. Major pharmacy chains like CVS, Walgreens, and hospital pharmacies often list certification as a prerequisite for employment.
Career Advancement
Certification opens pathways to specialized roles including:
- Sterile compounding technician
- Chemotherapy pharmacy technician
- Nuclear pharmacy technician
- Pharmacy technician supervisor
- Specialty pharmacy technician
Job Security
With healthcare’s continued growth and an aging population, certified pharmacy technicians enjoy strong job security. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects faster-than-average growth for this profession through 2032.
Professional Credibility
Certification demonstrates your commitment to the profession and adherence to ethical standards, building trust with employers, pharmacists, and patients.
Certification Requirements
PTCB Certification (CPhT)
To qualify for the PTCB exam, you must:
Meet one of these pathways:
- Complete a PTCB-Recognized Education/Training Program, OR
- Equivalent work experience as determined by your state’s Board of Pharmacy
Additional requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old (in most states)
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Pass a criminal background check
- Disclose all criminal and State Board of Pharmacy registration or licensure actions
NHA Certification (ExCPT)
NHA requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Be at least 18 years old
- Complete an approved training program (recommended but not always required)
The Certification Exam: What to Expect
PTCB Exam Format
The PTCB exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions (80 scored, 10 pretest) covering:
Knowledge Domains:
- Medications (40%)
- Federal Requirements (12.5%)
- Patient Safety and Quality Assurance (26.25%)
- Order Entry and Processing (21.25%)
Exam Details:
- Duration: 2 hours
- Passing score: 1400 (scaled score range: 1000-1600)
- Computer-based testing at Pearson VUE centers
- Cost: $129
NHA ExCPT Exam Format
The ExCPT includes 110 questions (100 scored, 10 pretest) covering:
Content Areas:
- Regulations and Technician Duties (20%)
- Drugs and Drug Therapy (22%)
- Dispensing Process (23%)
- Inventory Management and Insurance Processing (16%)
- Patient Safety (19%)
Exam Details:
- Duration: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Computer-based at PSI testing centers
- Cost: $117
How to Prepare for Certification
Formal Training Programs
Quality pharmacy technician training programs provide comprehensive preparation covering:
- Pharmacy law and ethics
- Pharmaceutical calculations
- Pharmacology and drug classifications
- Pharmacy operations and workflow
- Medical terminology
- Insurance and billing procedures
Most programs can be completed in 4-12 months through online, on-campus, or hybrid formats. Look for programs that include exam preparation specifically for the certification you’re pursuing. Institutions like Foxtown Education offer structured training programs designed to prepare you thoroughly for certification exams while providing the flexibility to learn at your own pace.
Study Resources
Effective preparation typically includes:
- Official study guides from PTCB or NHA
- Practice exams to familiarize yourself with question formats
- Flashcards for medication names and classifications
- Online courses offering structured learning
- Study groups for peer support and knowledge sharing
Hands-On Experience
If possible, gain practical experience through:
- Pharmacy technician externships or internships
- Entry-level positions in pharmacy settings
- Volunteer opportunities in healthcare facilities
Real-world experience reinforces classroom learning and builds confidence for both the exam and your future career.
State-Specific Requirements
Certification requirements vary significantly by state. Some states require national certification, while others have their own registration or licensure processes. Before pursuing certification, research your state’s specific requirements:
States requiring national certification include Colorado, Louisiana, Texas, and Wyoming, among others.
States with registration but not mandatory certification allow you to work while pursuing credentials.
States with pharmacy-specific technician programs may have additional requirements beyond national certification.
Always check with your state’s Board of Pharmacy for the most current requirements.
Maintaining Your Certification
Certification isn’t a one-time achievement. It requires ongoing maintenance.
PTCB Recertification
- Renew every 2 years
- Complete 20 hours of continuing education (CE)
- At least 1 hour must be in pharmacy law
- 1 hour in patient safety
- Pay renewal fee of $40
NHA Recertification
- Renew every 2 years
- Complete 10 continuing education credits
- Pay renewal fee
Continuing education keeps you current with industry changes, new medications, and evolving pharmacy practices.
Cost Considerations
Budget for these certification-related expenses:
Initial Costs:
- Training program: $1000-$5000 (varies)
- Exam fee: $117-$129
- Study materials: $50-$200
- Background check: $30-$50
Ongoing Costs:
- Recertification fee: $40 (PTCB) every 2 years
- Continuing education: $0-$300 (many free options available)
While there’s an upfront investment, the increased earning potential typically provides positive return within the first year of employment.
Choosing Between PTCB and NHA
Both certifications are nationally recognized, but consider these factors:
Choose PTCB if:
- Your state specifically requires PTCB certification
- You’re interested in specialty certifications later (PTCB offers advanced credentials)
- Your employer prefers or requires CPhT credential
Choose NHA if:
- Your state accepts either certification
- You prefer the exam format and content structure
- Your training program prepares specifically for ExCPT
Many employers accept both certifications equally, so your choice often depends on personal preference and state requirements.
Taking the Next Step
Ready to pursue pharmacy technician certification? Here’s your action plan:
Step 1: Research State Requirements Visit your state Board of Pharmacy website to understand specific regulations and certification requirements.
Step 2: Choose Your Training Path Select an accredited training program that fits your schedule and learning style. Look for programs offering comprehensive curriculum and exam preparation. Educational partners like Foxtown Education provide quality training programs that align with industry standards and prepare you for certification success.
Step 3: Prepare Thoroughly Dedicate adequate time to studying—most successful candidates spend 2-3 months in focused preparation.
Step 4: Schedule Your Exam Once you feel confident, register for your chosen certification exam through the appropriate testing organization.
Step 5: Apply for State Registration After passing your exam, complete any additional state-specific registration or licensure requirements.
Step 6: Launch Your Career With certification in hand, apply for positions at pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities.
The Bottom Line
Pharmacy technician certification is an achievable goal that significantly enhances your career prospects in healthcare. With focused preparation, quality training, and dedication to the field, you can join the thousands of certified pharmacy technicians making a difference in patient care every day.
The investment of time and money in certification pays dividends through higher salaries, better job opportunities, and professional satisfaction. Whether you’re starting a new career or advancing in your current role, pharmacy technician certification is a valuable credential that demonstrates your competence and commitment to excellence.
Start your journey today by researching approved training programs, understanding your state’s requirements, and taking that first step toward becoming a certified pharmacy technician. Your future in healthcare awaits.
