Becoming a Certified Pharmacy Technician - A group of people sitting at a desk - Health Care

Becoming a Certified Pharmacy Technician

After completing a pharmacy technician training program, your next goal will be to become a certified pharmacy technician (CPhT). Getting a pharmacy technician license starts with passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination. This examination is offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board.

Note: The CPhT is a requirement for the Pharmacy technician Full License in Arizona.

Two Different Pharmacy Technician Licenses

There are two levels of licenses per the Certification Board: the Trainee License and the Full License. Below are the steps on how to get each type of pharmacy technician license:

  • Pharmacy Technician Trainee License is required for our students to practice during their externships. To obtain a trainee license, you’ll apply at the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy with your U.S. birth certificate and high school diploma or GED. The fee is $46 for a 2-year license. This step should must be completed prior to your externship.
  • Pharmacy Technician Full License is achieved by passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE). While going through this process, some graduates may work under a Trainee License. The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) administers this exam and issues the certification. When you submit an application for certified licensure, you will be required by law to show proof of your PTCB certification.

Both your Certified License and PTCB certification must be renewed every 2 years. Before renewing your certification and applying for a renewed license, you must successfully complete 20 hours of continuing education. Of course, the process of how to become a certified pharmacy technician first starts with completing a training program and an externship where you get to work alongside a pharmacist and gain first-hand experience in the pharmacy field.

Arizona College of Allied Health’s Pharmacy Technician training program can provide you with the education and training you need for becoming a pharmacy technician. Submit an information request form to learn more about how our pharmacy tech program prepares you with the knowledge and skills needed to pass the exam requirements.

Request More Information

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
By requesting info, you consent for Arizona College to contact you regarding our educational programs and services using email, telephone or text - including through the use of automated technology for calls or texts to any wireless number you provide. This consent is not required for you to apply or enroll and you may always call us directly.