How Many Questions Are On the National Pharmacy Technician Exam?
The Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) and the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) contain 90 questions and 110 questions, respectively. Understanding the format and content of these exams is crucial for success.
Understanding the National Pharmacy Technician Exams
Becoming a certified pharmacy technician is a significant step in a rewarding healthcare career. Two main certification bodies administer national exams: the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) with the PTCE, and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) with the ExCPT. Understanding the structure of these exams, including how many questions are on the national pharmacy technician exam, is a vital first step in your preparation.
Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) Exam (PTCE)
The PTCE is the most widely recognized certification exam for pharmacy technicians in the United States. Passing the PTCE grants you the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential. The PTCE assesses the knowledge and skills necessary for safe and effective pharmacy practice.
National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Exam (ExCPT)
The ExCPT is another nationally recognized certification exam. Successfully completing the ExCPT earns you the title of Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT), recognized by many employers and state boards of pharmacy. This exam also assesses the skills and knowledge critical to the pharmacy technician role.
PTCE vs. ExCPT: A Head-to-Head Comparison
While both exams aim to certify pharmacy technicians, there are key differences:
| Feature | PTCE (PTCB) | ExCPT (NHA) |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Questions | 90 (80 scored, 10 unscored) | 110 (90 scored, 20 unscored) |
| Certification | CPhT | CPhT |
| Computer-Based | Yes | Yes |
| Recognized | Widely | Growing |
| Focus | More clinically focused | Broader, more practical application |
Knowing the number of questions and the scoring breakdown can help you pace yourself during the exam.
Exam Content and Domains
Both exams cover a broad range of pharmacy technician duties. Understanding the content domains is essential for focused study.
- PTCE Content Domains (PTCB):
- Medications (40%)
- Federal Requirements (12.5%)
- Patient Safety and Quality Assurance (26.25%)
- Order Entry and Processing (21.25%)
- ExCPT Content Domains (NHA):
- Pharmacology (34%)
- Pharmacy Law and Regulations (14%)
- Sterile and Non-Sterile Compounding (11%)
- Medication Safety (19%)
- Pharmacy Inventory Management (12%)
- Billing and Reimbursement (10%)
Effective Study Strategies
- Create a Study Schedule: Allocate specific time slots for each content domain.
- Utilize Practice Exams: Familiarize yourself with the exam format and identify areas for improvement.
- Review Key Concepts: Focus on the core knowledge and skills required for each domain.
- Consider a Review Course: Enroll in a structured review course to gain expert guidance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Poor Time Management: Practice pacing yourself to answer all questions within the allotted time. Knowing how many questions are on the national pharmacy technician exam allows you to calculate how much time to spend on each question.
- Rushing Through Questions: Read each question carefully and understand what is being asked.
- Ignoring Key Words: Pay attention to terms like “NOT,” “EXCEPT,” and “MOST” in the questions.
- Neglecting Weak Areas: Identify your weak areas and dedicate extra time to improving them.
The Importance of Certification
- Increased Job Opportunities: Certification often opens doors to a wider range of job opportunities.
- Higher Earning Potential: Certified technicians often earn more than their non-certified counterparts.
- Professional Recognition: Certification demonstrates your commitment to the profession.
- Enhanced Knowledge and Skills: The preparation process enhances your knowledge and skills, making you a more valuable employee.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many questions are on the PTCE in total?
The PTCE has a total of 90 questions, but only 80 are scored. The remaining 10 are unscored pretest questions used for future exams. It’s impossible to know which questions are unscored, so treat every question as if it counts.
How many questions are on the ExCPT in total?
The ExCPT consists of a total of 110 questions, with 90 questions contributing to your final score. The other 20 are unscored pretest questions. Just like with the PTCE, approach all questions as if they’re being scored.
What is the passing score for the PTCE?
The PTCE uses a scaled scoring system. The passing score is 1400 out of a possible 1600. This means you need to demonstrate a sufficient level of proficiency across all content domains.
What is the passing score for the ExCPT?
The ExCPT also uses a scaled scoring system. To pass, you need to achieve a score of 390 or higher.
How long do I have to complete the PTCE?
You have a total of 2 hours (120 minutes) to complete the PTCE. This includes time for a tutorial and optional breaks. Effective time management is key to finishing all 90 questions.
How long do I have to complete the ExCPT?
The ExCPT allows 2 hours and 30 minutes (150 minutes) to complete the exam. This allows slightly more time per question compared to the PTCE.
Are the unscored questions different in difficulty than the scored questions?
There is no evidence to suggest that unscored questions are intentionally made harder or easier than the scored questions. They are simply being tested for potential use on future exams. Therefore, it is crucial to approach every question with equal diligence.
Can I retake the PTCE or ExCPT if I fail?
Yes, both the PTCE and the ExCPT allow retakes. However, there are restrictions. The PTCB allows a maximum of three attempts within a 12-month period, and you must wait 60 days between each attempt. The NHA also has retake policies, so refer to their website.
What happens if I don’t answer all the questions on the exam?
Unanswered questions are automatically marked as incorrect. Attempting every question, even if you have to guess, is better than leaving them blank. Prioritize answering those you know, then come back to the more difficult ones.
What types of questions are on the national pharmacy technician exam?
The exams use primarily multiple-choice questions. These questions assess your knowledge, application, and critical thinking skills. The ExCPT also includes some scenario-based questions that test your problem-solving abilities in real-world pharmacy settings.
Where can I find practice questions for the PTCE and ExCPT?
The PTCB and NHA offer official practice exams and study materials. Additionally, numerous third-party providers offer practice questions and review courses. Look for reputable sources and ensure the questions align with the current exam content outlines.
Is knowing how many questions are on the national pharmacy technician exam important for test preparation?
Yes, absolutely! Understanding how many questions are on the national pharmacy technician exam, how much time you have, and the scoring breakdown allows you to strategize your test-taking approach and effectively manage your time. This knowledge is essential for maximizing your chances of success.