Frequently Asked Questions

A pharmacy technician is a healthcare professional who assists pharmacists in dispensing medications, managing inventory, and providing customer service. They play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of pharmacy services.

To apply for the PTCB exam, visit the official PTCB website, create an account, and follow the instructions for exam registration. You'll need to provide documentation of your education and pay the exam fee.

The job outlook for pharmacy technicians is positive, with steady demand expected in the coming years. As healthcare services expand and the population ages, the need for skilled pharmacy technicians continues to grow.

The time it takes to become a pharmacy technician depends on the type of program you choose. Certificate programs can typically be completed in a few months, while associate degrees may take up to two years.

The average hourly wage for pharmacy technicians in the United States is approximately $19.73[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://www.indeed.com/career/pharmacy-technician/salaries?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "2").

Yes, certified pharmacy technicians must complete continuing education (CE) requirements to maintain their certification. The PTCB requires certified technicians to complete 20 hours of CE every two years, including one hour of pharmacy law and one hour of patient safety.

Pharmacy technicians are responsible for preparing and dispensing medications, maintaining patient records, managing inventory, and providing excellent customer service. They may also assist with administrative tasks and support pharmacists in their daily operations.

To become a certified pharmacy technician, you typically need to complete a formal education program, pass a certification exam, and meet any state-specific requirements. The most common certification is the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam.

Pharmacy technicians can work in various settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and mail-order pharmacies. Their skills are in demand across the healthcare industry.

Training programs for pharmacy technicians vary in length and format, including certificate programs, diploma programs, and associate degrees. Many programs offer online or in-person options to accommodate different learning preferences.

The starting pay for pharmacy technicians varies by location and employer. On average, entry-level pharmacy technicians can expect to earn around $28,740 per year[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://www.pharmacytechnicianguide.com/Salary/?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "1").

The average annual salary for pharmacy technicians nationwide is about $37,970[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://www.pharmacytechnicianguide.com/Salary/?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "1"). However, this can vary significantly based on factors such as location, experience, and the type of employer.

Continuing education courses for pharmacy technicians are available through various organizations, including professional associations, colleges, and online platforms. The PTCB website provides a list of approved CE providers.

The CPhT exam is challenging but passable with solid prep. You can take it up to three times without delay. After that, there’s a six-month wait and proof of further study is required.