Are you interested in becoming a Pharmacy Technician and obtaining the PTCB certification? You’re not alone.
Many aspiring pharmacy techs are looking for efficient and flexible ways to achieve their certification without setting foot in a traditional classroom.
In today’s competitive job market, having a PTCB certification is essential, but even that might not be enough to stand out.
That’s why we’re diving into how you could get certified online in as little as two months and gain the edge you need to succeed.
What is a PTCB Certification?
If you’re aiming to become a Pharmacy Technician, getting certified can greatly boost your chances of landing a job and earning a better salary.
One of the most respected and widely recognized credentials in the field is the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) certification offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
The CPhT certification shows that you have the skills and knowledge needed to work in this role, and that you meet the highest standards set by the industry.
The Importance of PTCB Certification
Before we get into the specifics of how to obtain your certification online, let’s talk about why it’s crucial to your career as a Pharmacy Technician. According to the Industrial Outlook Survey 2024, over 85% of employers require their pharmacy technicians to have certification. It’s the first filter many employers use to ensure they hire trustworthy, competent individuals capable of working with patients.
The PTCB certification is the gold standard in this field and is often the number one requirement for landing a job. It demonstrates that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to work effectively in a pharmacy setting. Simply put, if you want to build a successful career in this industry, you need to have your PTCB certification.
Eligibility Requirements for PTCB’s CPhT Certification
The CPhT certification, offered by the PTCB, ensures that only qualified individuals who meet specific criteria are allowed to take the exam.
Meeting these requirements is your first step toward becoming certified and starting your pharmacy technician career with confidence.
#1 You must be a resident of the U.S and at least 18 years old
#2 You must possess a high school diploma or an equivalent credential
A high school diploma or a recognized equivalent, such as a GED, is mandatory. This basic educational foundation is necessary to ensure you have the skills and background to understand and apply the material covered in the training and the certification exam.
#3 You must complete a Pharmacy Technician training program
Completing a recognized pharmacy technician training program is one of the primary pathways to qualify for the CPhT exam. These programs are designed to prepare you with the essential knowledge and hands-on skills required for the role.
#3 Or, gain one year of supervised work experience (at least 500 hours)
If you haven’t completed a formal training program, there’s an alternative route. You can also qualify if you’ve worked at least one year (or 500 hours) in a pharmacy setting under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist.
So, once you meet these 3 requirements, you’ll be eligible to apply for the CPhT exam and take the next big step toward a rewarding career in pharmacy.
CPhT Certification Exam Details
The CPhT exam is designed to evaluate whether you have the knowledge and skills required to perform essential tasks as a pharmacy technician.
The exam consists of a total of 90 multiple-choice questions. Out of these, 80 are scored, and 10 are unscored and included for experimental purposes.
You’ll have a time limit of 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete the entire exam. To pass, you must achieve a scaled score of at least 1,400.
The test is available in two formats: you can either take it in person at an authorized testing center or opt for an online version monitored by a live remote proctor. This flexibility allows you to choose the option that best fits your needs and schedule.
CPhT Exam Fee
The CPhT exam by PTCB costs $129. This fee is separate from any training program fees you might have paid.
CPhT Recertification Details
Recertification ensures you stay up to date with industry changes and maintain your professional credibility.
To maintain your CPhT certification, you’ll need to renew it every two years. During each two-year period, you’re required to complete 20 hours of continuing education to stay updated with industry standards.
Additionally, there’s a $55 renewal application fee that must be paid when submitting your renewal. Keeping your certification active ensures you’re always job-ready and compliant with professional requirements.
Breakdown of the Topics Covered in the CPhT Certification Exam
The CPhT certification exam covers a range of topics to ensure you’re job-ready. The exam content could be divided into four primary domains, each focusing on specific aspects of pharmacy practice.
Together, they form the core of what you’ll face in the CPhT exam—and ultimately, in your day-to-day role in a pharmacy setting.
1 – Medications (40%)
This is the largest and most important section of the exam, and for good reason. It covers everything you need to know about medications, from their names to how they work.
- Generic and brand names, along with classifications of medications
- Therapeutic equivalence and indications
- Common side effects, allergies, and adverse reactions (including serious drug interactions and contraindications)
- Drug dosages, strengths, routes of administration, and special handling instructions
- Stability and storage of medications, including refrigerated or light-sensitive drugs
- Narrow Therapeutic Index (NTI) drugs and medication incompatibilities
- Basic knowledge of dietary supplements and proper drug handling
2 – Patient Safety and Quality Assurance (26.25%)
As a pharmacy tech, your role in maintaining patient safety is huge. This domain ensures you’re ready to minimize errors and protect patient health.
- High-alert and look-alike/sound-alike (LASA) medications
- Error prevention strategies like Tall Man lettering, barcoding, and avoiding risky abbreviations
- Recognizing issues that require pharmacist intervention (like misuse or adverse events)
- Reporting procedures for medication errors and product quality issues
- Understanding hygiene protocols and maintaining clean, safe workspaces
3 – Order Entry and Processing (21.25%)
This section tests your technical know-how when it comes to filling prescriptions and handling pharmacy operations.
- Compounding non-sterile medications (ointments, liquids, suppositories, etc.)
- Pharmacy math (conversions, ratios, dilutions, sig codes, abbreviations)
- Knowing your equipment, like diabetic supplies, syringes, and unit-dose packaging
- Understanding and checking expiration dates, NDC numbers, and lot numbers
- Procedures for handling returns, expired meds, and inventory
4 – Federal Requirements (12.5%)
This section focuses on staying compliant with federal laws and handling medications safely and legally.
- Federal rules for the disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous substances
- Regulations for controlled substances (prescriptions, DEA schedules, ordering, labeling, and theft/loss procedures)
- Restricted drug programs (like REMS and pseudoephedrine)
- Understanding FDA recall procedures and classifications
How To Apply for CPhT Certification By PTCB?
If you’re ready to take your first big step toward becoming a certified Pharmacy Technician, applying for the CPhT certification through the PTCB is the way to go.
This certification is highly respected across the pharmacy industry and can open doors to better job opportunities and higher earning potential.
Here’s how to apply for the CPhT exam:
#1 Meet the Eligibility Requirements
Before you apply, make sure you meet the basic requirements. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and either complete a PTCB-recognized pharmacy technician training program or have 500 hours of supervised pharmacy work experience.
#2 Create a PTCB Account
Head to the PTCB website and create an account. This account will be your main portal for managing your application, exam scheduling, and certification status.
#3 Apply for Certification
Once your account is set up, log in and complete the CPhT application. You’ll provide your personal information, confirm your eligibility, and pay the application fee.
#4 Wait for Approval and Schedule Your Exam
After submitting your application, PTCB will review your details. If everything checks out, you’ll receive an Authorization to Schedule (ATT) via email. This lets you book your Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
#5 Choose Your Testing Method
You can take the PTCE either online with a live proctor or in person at one of over 1,400 Pearson VUE testing centers across the U.S., including more than 100 military bases. Choose the option that works best for your schedule and comfort.
And that’s it! With the right prep and a clear application process, you’re well on your way to becoming a Certified Pharmacy Technician.
How to Prepare for the CPhT Certification Exam By PTCB?
Preparing for the CPhT certification exam can feel overwhelming. But with the right strategy and tools, you can make the process manageable and even enjoyable.
Let’s break down how you can best prepare for the CPhT exam:
Enroll in a Training Program
The first step in your exam prep journey is getting proper education, and the type of program you choose makes a big difference.
Traditional Programs are usually in-person courses offered by community colleges or vocational schools. While they offer structure, they can be expensive, take a long time (anywhere from 6 months to 2 years), and may not fit into a busy schedule, especially if you’re balancing work or family responsibilities.
Then there is On-the-Job Training. Some people choose to learn directly on the job. While this gives you experience, it often lacks the structure and exam-focused prep needed to pass the CPhT certification exam confidently. You might also miss out on covering important exam topics if your role doesn’t include them.
This is where online training programs really shine. A well-structured online course, especially a self-paced one, can offer the same quality of education as a traditional program but with more flexibility and lower costs. It lets you study on your schedule without sacrificing your other responsibilities.
So, it is ideal to enroll in an online pharmacy technician training program. But, enrolling isn’t enough; completing your coursework is equally crucial.
Gain Hands-On Experience
Experience is crucial, not just for passing the exam, but for building confidence and skill in real-world pharmacy settings.
Externships are one of the best ways to get this kind of experience. It lets you practice what you’ve learned and strengthen your resume before you even get certified.
However, finding externships on your own can be tough. That’s why it’s smart to choose a training program that includes an externship opportunity, ideally with placement support.
Use Online Resources for Targeted Practice
Once you’ve completed the coursework and gained experience, it’s time to test your knowledge. There are plenty of online tools available to help you review topics.
The PTCB itself offers official practice tools that are worth checking out. There’s the PTCE Practice Bank, which costs around $65.
This includes over 300 questions drawn from previous CPhT exams, giving you a real sense of the types of questions you’ll see on test day.
It also includes 400+ flash cards covering drug facts, pharmacy terminology, and core concepts, and they’re great for quick reviews and reinforcing essential knowledge.
In addition to official resources, you can also explore free online practice tests, YouTube videos from certified techs, and exam prep forums for extra tips and peer support.
A Faster Approach that could make you a Certified Pharmacy Technician in As Little As 2 Months
If you’re serious about becoming a Pharmacy Technician, you should get certified. Certification doesn’t just make you more employable, it also opens doors to better-paying jobs, long-term growth, and a more secure future in healthcare.
But here’s the catch: traditional training programs can take years. On-the-job training sounds like a shortcut, but even if you land a job, there’s no guarantee the training will prepare you for the certification exam.
So, the faster approach to becoming certification-ready would be to enroll in an online Pharmacy Technician training program.
Online programs are self-paced, flexible, convenient, affordable, and faster. If you pick the right one, you could complete your training in just a couple of months instead of dragging it out for a year or more.
But not all online courses are created equal. You need to find one that checks the essential boxes.
First, it must align with the standards set by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
Second, it should give out hands-on experience opportunities through an externship.
Third, it’s better if you could find something under $2,000. No hidden fees. No student loans.
Last, you should be able to finish it in 4 months or less.
Well, finding such a program with such a tough checklist could be tough, right?
So, we would like to introduce you to one such online program that meets the criteria and has more to offer as well.
Introducing the Preppy Approach
So how can you get all of this without attending years of school or breaking the bank? Enter the Pharmacy Technician certification program—an online program that checks all the boxes for aspiring Pharmacy Technicians.
Preppy offers an efficient, cost-effective, and flexible way to become a certified Pharmacy Technician in as little as two months.
Let’s break down how Preppy works and what you’ll get from the program.
100% Online, Self-Paced Learning
Preppy’s pharmacy tech training program is completely online, allowing you to learn from the comfort of your own home—or wherever you feel most productive. Whether you’re juggling a full-time job, parenting, or other responsibilities, the self-paced nature of the course means you can study whenever it fits into your schedule.
There are no rigid class times, no commuting, and no need to rearrange your life to attend school. Whether it’s early morning, during your lunch break, or late at night, Preppy’s program allows you to progress at your own pace.
Partnered with an Accredited University
One of the standout features of Preppy’s program is its partnership with Auburn, a well-known, accredited, nonprofit university. Upon completing your Pharmacy Technician training, you’ll receive a certificate of completion from this prestigious institution. Not only does this boost your résumé, but it also gives you the credibility that many employers look for.
Prepares You for the PTCB Certification Exam
Preppy’s curriculum is designed specifically to prepare you for the PTCB certification exam. The course covers all the key topics that you’ll be tested on, ensuring that you’ll feel confident and ready to ace the exam.
With Preppy’s structured yet flexible format, interactive presentations, quizzes, and videos, you’ll get all the resources you need to succeed.
Externship Opportunities
One of the unique advantages of the Preppy program is that it offers externship opportunities. This can take place at local hospitals, pharmacies, or other healthcare facilities, giving you valuable hands-on experience in a real-world environment.
This experience can be a key differentiator when applying for jobs, allowing you to showcase your practical skills alongside your certification. Externship opportunities through Preppy are available nationwide, so no matter where you live, Preppy can help you find a suitable externship location.
Fast-Track Your Certification in as little as Two Months
One of the most appealing aspects of Preppy’s program is the speed at which you can complete your training. You could be job-ready and certified in as little as two months. For busy adults looking to change careers or upskill quickly, this is a significant advantage.
While some programs take years to complete, Preppy has designed a curriculum that maximizes learning efficiency without compromising quality.
Job Assistance Services
Preppy goes beyond just providing training—they also offer job assistance services. Once you’ve completed the program, Preppy will help connect you with companies that are looking for qualified Pharmacy Technicians. These services can help you land a job faster and potentially even skip the lengthy job search process.
Affordable Pricing
With all of these incredible benefits, you might assume that Preppy’s pharmacy tech program comes with a hefty price tag. But Preppy is committed to making career training affordable and accessible. The entire Pharmacy Technician certification program costs just $1,599.
For a limited time, Preppy is also offering a special bonus: a free laptop when you enroll. And if you need more time to pay, Preppy provides flexible payment plans.
Going Beyond Certification: The Extra Edge You Need
Having your PTCB certification is great, but in a crowded job market, how do you stand out? There are two critical elements that can give you a significant edge over other entry-level pharmacy techs:
#1 University Certificate in Healthcare
A university certificate in healthcare carries weight. Most aspiring pharmacy technicians obtain their training from local classes or general online programs. If you have a university certificate on your résumé, especially from a well-known and accredited institution, you’ll stand out in a big way. Employers know that a university-backed certification means you’ve received rigorous and quality training.
You may be thinking, “Do I have to enroll in a traditional, on-campus program to get this kind of certificate?” The good news is no! You can earn a respected university certificate without ever stepping foot on campus, thanks to online learning platforms partnered with accredited universities. This revolutionary approach offers all the benefits of a traditional education without the time, cost, or commute.
#2 Experience
The second crucial factor is hands-on experience. Having some real-world experience under your belt, even as an extern, can be a game-changer. Employers love candidates who not only have certification but also have practical experience working in a pharmacy environment.
An externship, for example, can provide you with invaluable hands-on experience and help you get a feel for what it’s like to work as a Pharmacy Technician. Having this on your résumé makes you more attractive to employers and can give you the confidence to hit the ground running in your new career.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to start a new career as a Pharmacy Technician, Preppy offers a fast, affordable, and flexible way to obtain your certification. In as little as two months, you could be PTCB certified, gain valuable experience through an externship opportunity, and have a university-backed certificate on your résumé. With Preppy’s job placement assistance and affordable pricing, your dream career is closer than you think.
Also read: How To Become a Pharmacy Technician in 2024
About:
Preppy was founded by higher education expert, Grant Aldrich, whose work on college affordability and accessibility has been featured in Forbes, Bloomberg Businessweek, Business Insider, American Express, AOL, MSN, Thrive Global, Reader’s Digest, Inside Higher Ed, Evolllution, EducationDive, and nearly 100 radio shows and podcasts.
Time is money. Instead of programs that could take 2 years, Preppy provides you with education in a few months through immersive online training.
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