How to Become Certified as a Pharmacy Technician: Your Definitive Guide
Becoming a certified pharmacy technician unlocks numerous career opportunities and demonstrates your commitment to patient safety. This guide explains how to become certified as a pharmacy technician, outlining the steps, requirements, and best practices for success.
Introduction: The Growing Importance of Pharmacy Technicians
The healthcare industry is booming, and the demand for qualified pharmacy technicians is steadily increasing. Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in dispensing medications, providing customer service, and ensuring the accuracy of prescriptions. Certification is often required or strongly preferred by employers, and it can significantly enhance your career prospects and earning potential. Understanding how to become certified as a pharmacy technician is the first step toward a rewarding career in this essential field.
Why Get Certified? Unveiling the Benefits
Certification is more than just a piece of paper; it’s a testament to your knowledge, skills, and commitment to the profession. Here are some key benefits:
- Increased Job Opportunities: Many employers require or strongly prefer certified pharmacy technicians.
- Higher Earning Potential: Certified technicians typically earn more than their non-certified counterparts.
- Enhanced Career Advancement: Certification can open doors to specialized roles and leadership positions.
- Greater Job Security: Certification demonstrates your qualifications and value to employers.
- Improved Knowledge and Skills: The certification process requires thorough training and preparation.
- Professional Recognition: Certification validates your competence and adherence to industry standards.
The Certification Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
The process of how to become certified as a pharmacy technician involves several key steps:
- Meet Eligibility Requirements: Requirements vary by certifying body but generally include a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Complete a Training Program (Recommended): While not always required, completing an accredited pharmacy technician training program significantly increases your chances of passing the certification exam. These programs provide comprehensive instruction on pharmacology, pharmacy law, and dispensing procedures.
- Apply for Certification: Choose a certifying body and submit your application.
- Pass the Certification Exam: The two main certifying bodies are the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Each offers its own exam.
- Maintain Your Certification: Continuing education and renewal fees are required to keep your certification active.
Choosing the Right Certifying Body: PTCB vs. NHA
Two primary organizations offer pharmacy technician certification in the United States:
| Feature | Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) | National Healthcareer Association (NHA) |
|---|---|---|
| Certification Exam | PTCB Exam (PTCE) | ExCPT Exam |
| Accreditation | Accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) | Accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) |
| Exam Focus | More clinically focused | Broader scope, including administrative tasks |
| Recognition | Widely recognized and often preferred | Increasingly recognized |
Choosing the right certifying body depends on your career goals and the specific requirements of your employer or state board of pharmacy. Both are reputable organizations. Understanding how to become certified as a pharmacy technician means researching which certification is best for your needs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Preparing for Success
- Underestimating the Exam: The certification exam is challenging and requires thorough preparation.
- Procrastinating: Start studying early and allocate sufficient time for review.
- Ignoring Weak Areas: Identify your weaknesses and focus on improving them.
- Failing to Practice: Take practice exams to familiarize yourself with the format and content.
- Not Following Instructions: Carefully read and follow all instructions on the application and exam.
How to Become Certified as a Pharmacy Technician: State Requirements
It is critical to understand individual state’s requirements. Some states mandate national certification to work as a pharmacy technician, while others may only require registration with the state board of pharmacy, completion of a training program, or passing a state-specific exam. Some states may accept either PTCB or NHA certification, while others may have a preference. Always check with your state board of pharmacy for the most up-to-date and accurate information on how to become certified as a pharmacy technician in your location. This is an essential step in your planning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the basic eligibility requirements for pharmacy technician certification?
Generally, you need a high school diploma or its equivalent (GED). Some certifying bodies may also have age requirements or require a background check. Check the specific requirements of the PTCB or NHA.
Is a formal pharmacy technician training program required for certification?
While not always mandated, a formal training program is highly recommended. It provides the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed on the certification exam and in your career. Many employers also prefer candidates who have completed an accredited program.
How much does it cost to become a certified pharmacy technician?
The cost varies depending on the training program and certification exam fees. A training program can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, while exam fees are typically around $130–150.
How long does it take to become a certified pharmacy technician?
The timeline varies. A training program might take 6–12 months to complete. Exam preparation can take several weeks or months, depending on your study habits.
What is the difference between a registered pharmacy technician and a certified pharmacy technician?
Registration is typically a state-level requirement and may involve simply listing your name with the state board of pharmacy. Certification is a national credential that demonstrates your competence. Some states require both.
What topics are covered on the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam?
The exam covers a wide range of topics, including: pharmacy law and regulations, pharmacology, dispensing procedures, inventory management, and patient safety.
What are the continuing education requirements for maintaining my certification?
Both the PTCB and NHA require continuing education (CE) credits to maintain certification. The number of CE hours required varies, but typically includes topics related to pharmacy practice, law, and patient safety.
Can I get a job as a pharmacy technician without being certified?
In some states, you can, but your job opportunities will be more limited, and you will likely earn less. Most employers prefer or require certification.
Where can I find accredited pharmacy technician training programs?
You can search online or contact your state board of pharmacy for a list of accredited programs in your area.
What if I fail the certification exam?
Both the PTCB and NHA allow you to retake the exam after a waiting period. Review your areas of weakness and study further before attempting the exam again.
How can I prepare for the pharmacy technician certification exam?
Utilize study guides, practice exams, and online resources. Consider joining a study group or seeking tutoring if needed.
Is there a specific type of computer skills needed for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam?
While the exam itself is computer-based, the computer skills needed are basic. Knowing how to navigate a computer, use a mouse, and select answers are the primary skills used during the exam. The exam is not designed to test advanced computer proficiency.