How to Become a Pharmacy Technician

The field for Pharmacy Technicians has increased due to more
retail and grocery stores providing pharmacy services.
Jobs are available in many settings including hospitals, drug stores, grocery, club and some retail chain stores.

Things You'll Need

Instructions

1. Study mathmatics, health and life sciences in high school.

2. Medical terminology is also helpful.

3. Complete a vocational, ROP, technical or community college certificate program for Pharmacy Technician, typically a 1-year program.

4. Gain work experience as a pharmacy assistant, while completing your certificate. Pharmacy assistants usually have less complex responsibilities than technicians. They often serve as clerks, cashiers or stock shelves. Experienced assistants often have as easier time finding technician jobs after graduation.

5. Take the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam after graduating your certification program. This exam is voluntary, yet will formalize your education and allow employers to know you have a standardized body of knowledge and skills. The passed exam will earn you the title Certified Pharmacy Technician.

6. Keep up with your education and re-certify every two years by completing 10 contact hours of related pharmacy education each year.

Tips & Warnings

• For more information go to the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board at www.ptcb.org, or the American Society of Health System Pharmacists at www.ashp.org.