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- 2026 Pharmacy Technician State Requirements: Training, Fees, Renewals & CE.
2026 Pharmacy Technician State Requirements: Training, Fees, Renewals & CE.
At a Glance.
- Pharmacy technician requirements vary significantly by state, so there is no single set of national rules for registration, licensing, certification, or continuing education.
- Some states require state registration, some require state licensure, others require national certification – and many require a combination of these depending on the pharmacy technician’s role.
- Certification typically refers to national pharmacy technician certification, which is earned by passing either the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) administered by the PTCB or the ExCPT exam administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
- Registration and licensure are both forms of state authorization to work as a pharmacy technician, but they are not always the same. Registration generally places a pharmacy technician on a state registry, whereas licensure typically – though not always – involves more extensive professional requirements – often by completing a national certification exam. Because each state defines these terms differently, it’s important to refer to each state requirement separately.
- Several states allow you to begin working as a Pharmacy Technician Trainee before meeting all of the requirements for full registration or licensure. These trainee registrations are typically non-renewable and valid for one to two years, during which you must satisfy the state’s eligibility requirements — such as completing a board-approved training program, gaining supervised practical experience, obtaining national certification, or a combination of the three, before advancing to full pharmacy technician registration or licensure.
- Registration, licensure, and certification are not interchangeable. State registration or licensure is issued by a state’s Board of Pharmacy, whereas national certification is typically awarded by organizations such as the PTCB or NHA.
- This comprehensive state requirements guide is organized state by state, making it easy to compare training requirements, application fees, renewal periods, and continuing education requirements.
- Always verify the latest requirements with your State Board of Pharmacy or regulatory authority as regulations, fee schedules and renewal requirements can change. Current licensees should also consult the State Board of Pharmacy (or regulatory equivalent) for the same reason.
- Consult our state requirements guide on vaccination to determine whether pharmacy technicians are authorized to administer vaccines in your state.
2026 State Requirements: Registration, Licensure & Certification.
FAST TRACK
To Your State
| ALABAMA | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) |
| Training | To work as a pharmacy technician in Alabama, you must be registered to the State Board of Pharmacy. A board-approved program must be completed within 6-months of registration. You must be at least 17 years old. National certification exams, such as PTCB or NHA, satisfy this requirement. |
| Registration fee | $60.00 Background fee: $40.00 |
| Renewal | Renewal is required every 2-years Fee: $60.00 |
| Continuous education | 6-hours of CE must be completed every 2-year renewal cycle. At least 2-hours of this CE must be live. |
| Source: Alabama State Board of Pharmacy | |
| ALASKA | |
| License | Required |
| Tier(s) | Licensed Pharmacy Technician |
| Training | You must hold a High School diploma or GED. National certification through PTCB or NHA is not required for registration. However, earning either certification expands the professional roles & duties available to you as a pharmacy technician – including prescription transfers & administration of vaccinations, among others. |
| Licensure fee | $25.00 |
| Licensure renewal | Licensure renewal is required every 2-years Fee: $25.00 |
| Continuous education | 10-hours of CE every 2-year period. Note: pharmacy technicians administering vaccines are also required to do an additional 1-hour of training in ACPE immunization per renewal cycle. |
| Source: Alaska State Board of Pharmacy | |
| ARIZONA | |
| License | Required |
| Tier(s) | Licensed Pharmacy Technician |
| Training | Pass a board-approved pharmacy training program. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma. Both national certification exams (PTCB & NHA) satisfy the board-approved training requirement. Note: pharmacy technician trainee registrations are also available in Arizona where you can work as a technician for up to 36-months. This period is non-renewable. You must be at least 18 years old. |
| Licensure fee | $82.00 – Pharmacy Technician License $25.00 – Pharmacy Technician Trainee |
| Licensure renewal | Licensure renewal is required every 2-years Fee: $72.00 Pharmacy technician trainee licenses & registrations are not eligible for renewal. |
| Continuous education | 20-hours of CE every 2-year period. This 20-hours of CE must include the following: - 3 of those 20-hours: Opioid-related, substance use disorder-related, or addiction-related continuing education activities. - 2 of those 20-hours: Immunizers: CE related to administration of vaccines. In addition to these 20-hours of CE, pharmacy technicians are also required to complete an additional 2-hours in remote dispensing pharmacy (though this does not apply to technicians working from home). |
| Source: Arizona State Board of Pharmacy | |
| ARKANSAS | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) |
| Training | You must register to the Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy (ASBP) before you can work as a pharmacy technician. Applicants must have completed a High School diploma or GED. There is no official age requirement. You are required to undergo a thorough criminal background check before your registration is approved. You are not required to complete either a board-approved training program nor national certification. However, national certification through PTCB or NHA can open the door to expanded roles and responsibilities, such as vaccine administration. You must receive training and experience in a pharmacy under the supervision of a registered pharmacist. |
| Registration fee | $70.00 |
| Renewal | Renewal is required every 2-year cycle Renewal fee: $70.00 |
| Continuous education | No continuous education (CE) requirements are mandated by the ASBP. Separate CE requirements must be met if you hold national certification (20-hours every 2 year renewal cycle). |
| Source: Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy | |
| CALIFORNIA | |
| License | Required |
| Tier(s) | Licensed Pharmacy Technician |
| Training | There are four training pathways to obtain your California licensure: Route 1: NCAA-accredited program (which includes national certification exams such as PTCB or ExCPT). Route 2: Graduation from a state-board recognized School of Pharmacy. Route 3: Holder of an AS Degree in Pharmacy Technology. Route 4: Board-approved course that includes ASHP-accredited programs, an approved pharmacy technician course from the armed forces, or an approved 240-hour program. |
| Registration fee | $120.00 |
| Renewal | Renewal is required every 2-years Renewal fee: $150.00 Late fee: $75.00 |
| Continuous education | Completion of 1-hour of a Cultural Competency course per renewal cycle. |
| Source: California State Board of Pharmacy | |
| COLORADO | |
| Certification | Required |
| Tier(s) | Provisional Certification Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) |
| Training | Provisional certification requires applicants to obtain national certification within 18 months. Both the PTCB and NHA certification examinations satisfy this requirement. Once national certification has been obtained, the applicant can be upgraded to Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) licensure. Note that applicants who meet the applicable requirements may bypass provisional certification and proceed directly toward obtaining their Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential. Applicants are required to undertake a criminal background check. Note that fingerprint submission is currently not required. There are no minimum age or education requirements. Applicants must complete a board-approved national certification program. Both PTCB and ExCPT satisfy this requirement. |
| Registration fee | $57.00 Applicants must submit an application through the Colorado DPO online services. |
| Renewal | Renewal is required every 2-years by October 31. Fee: $57.00 Note: provisional Certification is not eligible for renewal. |
| Continuous education | There are no continuous education requirements for pharmacy technicians in Colorado. However, you must demonstrate that your national certification status is renewed & active. |
| Source: Colorado State Board of Pharmacy | |
| CONNECTICUT | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) |
| Training | Applicants must register with Connecticut State Board of Pharmacy within 30-days of training. Training must be completed under the supervision of a registered pharmacist. National certification is not required, though certified pharmacy technicians are typically eligible for more advanced duties. |
| Registration fee | $100.00 |
| Renewal | Renewal is required on an annual basis Fee: $50.00 Renew deadline: March 31 |
| Continuous education | There are no continuous education requirements to renew your registration each year. |
| Source: Commission of Pharmacy, Dept. of Consumer Protection | |
| DELAWARE | |
| Registration / License | Not required |
| Tier(s) | Non-Certified Pharmacy Technician Certified pharmacy technician (CPhT) |
| Training | Non-certified pharmacy technicians are neither required to register or obtain a license to practice by the Delaware State Board of Pharmacy. However, applicants working as a pharmacy technician must receive the requisite training under the supervision of a registered pharmacist. Certified pharmacy technicians (who hold national certification) hold a 2-year state registration through DELPROS. |
| Registration fee | As there is no registration with the board, there is no registration fee. |
| Renewal | Every 2-years, for certified pharmacy technicians. According to the Delaware State Board, you will be notified of your renewal fee at the time of renewal. |
| Continuous education | Non-certified pharmacy technicians are not required to complete any CE per cycle. Certified pharmacy technicians are required to complete 2-hours of CE every 2-years. |
| Source: Delaware State Board of Pharmacy | |
| DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) Note: DC offers four possible pathways to become registered with the State Board. These include a trainee position; a new registrant; out-of-state registrant; and grandfathered registrant. |
| Training | Must complete a board-approved training program (with at least 160hrs of practical experience). Accreditation bodies include the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists and the Higher Education Licensure Commission for Accrediting Agencies. National certification exams, including PTCB and NHA, satisfy this requirement. You must also be 18 years old, hold a High School diploma or GED, and pass a background check. |
| Registration fee | The latest fee schedule is currently unavailable. Contact DC Board of Pharmacy for the latest schedule of fees. |
| Renewal | Renewal is required every 2-years Fee - $50.00 |
| Continuous education | 20-hours of CE must be completed every 2-years - At least 2-hours in Pharmacy Law - At least 2-hours in Medication Safety - At least 2-hours in Cultural Competency - Additional CE requirements may be required per each renewal cycle. |
| Source: District of Columbia State Board of Pharmacy | |
| FLORIDA | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) |
| Training | You must be at least 17 years old, complete a Florida board-approved pharmacy technician training program (or qualify for an exemption), and register with the Florida State Board of Pharmacy. Note: as of November 2025, completing a PTCB-recognized training program is now an eligible pathway. However, holding PTCB certification itself cannot be used in lieu of completing a training program. |
| Registration fee | $55.00 + $50.00 application fee = a total of $105.00 |
| Renewal | Renewal is required every 2-years Fee - $55.00 - If renewing after your license expires: $80.00 - If renewing after delinquency period: $135.00 |
| Continuous education | 20-hours of CE must be completed every 2-years Your 20-hours of CE must include: - 18 hours of General Hours - 2 hours of Medication Errors |
| Source: Florida State Board of Pharmacy | |
| GEORGIA | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) |
| Training | You must be registered to the Georgia State Board of Pharmacy to work as a pharmacy technician. Applicants must be at least 17-years old, hold a High School diploma or GED, and pass a criminal background check / fingerprints submitted. Pharmacy technicians must comply with any employer reporting requirements, including providing relevant documentation and completing any required notifications or submissions as part of the employment and registration process. National certification is not required for registration. However, earning certification status can open further professional duties & responsibilities. |
| Registration fee | $100.00 |
| Renewal | Renewal is required every 2-years Fee - $60.00 Late renewal fee - $90.00 Note that if your registration is not renewed by September 1, you must submit a new application to regain your registration. |
| Continuous education | To maintain registration, Georgia State Board of Pharmacy require pharmacy technicians to complete 20-hours of CE every 2-year renewal cycle. Pharmacy technicians authorized to administer vaccines must complete an additional 2 hours of vaccination-related CE training. |
| Source: Georgia State Board of Pharmacy | |
| HAWAII | |
| Registration | Required (introduced January 1, 2026) |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) |
| Training | You are required to register to the Hawaii State Board of Pharmacy to practice as a pharmacy technician. You must be at least 18-years old. Note that there are no minimum education requirements, though employers or training programs may have their own requirements. If you have a criminal history, you must submit all required documentation relating to any previous criminal convictions or offenses. National certification through either PTCB or NHA is not required to become a registered pharmacy technician. However, pharmacy technicians must obtain national certification before they are authorized to administer vaccines in the state. |
| Registration fee | $130 if your registration takes place on an even-numbered year. $80 if your registration takes place on an odd-numbered year. You must submit a paper DCCA PVL registration application to the Hawaii State Board of Pharmacy. Note that online submissions are currently not accepted. |
| Renewal | Note: registrations expire on December 31 of every odd-numbered year, after which pharmacy technicians must submit a new application rather than complete a standard renewal. Therefore there is no renewal fee. |
| Continuous education | No CE is required by Hawaii State Board of Pharmacy to maintain your registration. |
| Source: Hawaii State Board of Pharmacy | |
| IDAHO | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) Note: effective July 1, 2026, there are three licensure tiers: - Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) - Tech-in-Training - Pharmacy Technician |
| Training | You must be at least 16 years old with a High School diploma or GED and submit an application to DOPL. You must receive on-the-job training under the supervision of a registered pharmacist. Applicants 18 years and older are required to undertake a criminal background check and to have their fingerprints taken. National certification is not required for basic registration. However, becoming a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) qualifies you for expanded duties, greater professional responsibilities, and typically improves long-term career and salary prospects. |
| Registration fee | $35.00 Background check fee – $28.35 |
| Renewal | Annual renewal fee - $30.00 Note that Idaho State Board of Pharmacy is currently moving toward biennial renewal. In this case, the renewal fee will double to $60.00. |
| Continuous education | No CE is required to maintain your non-certified registration. Certified pharmacy technicians are required to meet PTCB CE requirements (20 hours every 2 years). |
| Source: Idaho State Board of Pharmacy | |
| ILLINOIS | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) Registered Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) |
| Training | To work as a pharmacy technician in Illinois, you must register with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Applicants must be at least 16 years old, be currently enrolled in or have completed a high school or equivalent educational program, and submit a complete application with the required fee. Once your application has been submitted, you may work under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist for up to 60 days while your registration is being processed. To qualify as a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT), you must be at least 18 years old, demonstrate good moral character, and pass an NCCA-accredited national certification exam, such as the PTCB or NHA, or another Board-approved certification program. |
| Registration fee | $50.00 This fee replaced the previous $40 registration fee in April 2026. |
| Renewal | Renewal is required on an annual basis Fee - $35.00 |
| Continuous education | No CE is required to maintain your non-certified registration. Certified pharmacy technicians are required to complete 20-hours of CE every 2-years. |
| Source: Illinois State Board of Pharmacy (division of IDFPR) | |
| INDIANA | |
| License | Required |
| Tier(s) | Licensed Pharmacy Technician Pharmacy Technician-in-Training (PTIT) |
| Training | Applicants must be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent, and complete a criminal background check with fingerprinting after your application has been filed. The pharmacy technician-in-training (PTIT) permit is valid for a period of 1-year and is non-renewable. Applicants must complete an Indiana Board-approved training program, an approved employer-based training program, or pass an approved national certification examination, such as the PTCB or ExCPT, to qualify for full pharmacy technician licensure. |
| Licensure fee | Submit an application to Indiana Board of Pharmacy's MyLicense One. Licensed pharmacy technician registration: $25.00 Pharmacy technician-in-training fee: $25.00 Criminal background check fee: $38.20 |
| Licensure renewal | Licenses must be renewed every 2 years by June 30 of even-numbered years. Fee - $25.00 Late fee - $25.00 (for licenses that have been expired for up to 3 years, the late fee increases to $50) |
| Continuous education | Indiana Board of Pharmacy does not require pharmacy technician licensees to complete continuing education to maintain their licensure. Holders of national certification must meet separate CE requirements. For PTCB-certified technicians, this includes 20 hours of CE during each renewal cycle, including 1 hour of Pharmacy Law and 1 hour of Patient Safety. |
| Source: Indiana State Board of Pharmacy | |
| IOWA | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) Pharmacy Technician Trainee (PTT) |
| Training | There are no minimum age or education requirements to practice as a pharmacy technician, although individual employers and training programs may establish their own requirements. Criminal background check and fingerprints are currently not required for registration. Pharmacy technician trainees may practice for up to 12 months under this registration tier, which is non-renewable. During this period, you must work toward obtaining national certification if you wish to continue practicing as a pharmacy technician after the 12-month period expires. You must practice under the supervision of a registered pharmacist. Applicants must obtain national certification, either through PTCB or ExCPT to become a certified pharmacy technician (CPhT). |
| Registration fee | Trainee fee - $20.00 Certified pharmacy technician fee - $40.00 You must submit an online application through the state board's DIAL licensure portal. |
| Renewal | Renewal is required every 2-years by your national certification expiration date Fee - $40.00 Late penalty fee - $40.00 |
| Continuous education | Iowa does not maintain its own continuous education requirements. Instead, certified pharmacy technicians are required to meet the CE requirements of their national certification (PTCB or NHA). Pharmacy technicians authorized to administer vaccinations must complete at least 1 hour of ACPE Topic 06 CE during each renewal cycle, in addition to maintaining current healthcare-provider Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. |
| Source: Iowa State Board of Pharmacy | |
| KANSAS | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) |
| Training | Applicants must complete national certification, either through PTCB or ExCPT to become a certified pharmacy technician (CPhT). Certification must be completed before your first renewal cycle. |
| Registration fee | $77.00 |
| Renewal | Renewal is required every 2-years Fee: $20.00 |
| Continuous education | 20-hours of CE must be completed every 2-years. CE must be ACPE or board-approved. |
| Source: Kansas State Board of Pharmacy | |
| KENTUCKY | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) |
| Training | You must be at least 16-years old. There are no minimum education requirements for pharmacy technicians, although individual employers and approved training programs may establish their own requirements. Currently, registered pharmacy technicians are not required to undergo a criminal background check or submit fingerprints as part of the registration process. Registered pharmacy technicians must practice under the immediate supervision of a supervising pharmacist and have a more limited scope of practice than certified pharmacy technicians. You may work as a pharmacy technician for up to 30 days from your initial date of employment, during which time you must submit your application for registration. To become a certified pharmacy technician, national certification is required. |
| Registration fee | $25.00 Applicants must apply via the KS Board of Pharmacy online licensure gateway. Note that you must also hold an NABP e-Profile ID to complete the registration process. |
| Renewal | Renewal is required on an annual basis by March 31 Fee: $25.00 Late renewal penalty: $25.00 |
| Continuous education | Continuous education is not required for the registered pharmacy technician tier. Certified pharmacy technicians must meet the CE requirements of their national certification (PTCB or NHA) – 20 hours every 2-years. Pharmacy technicians who hold vaccination certification must also meet the associated CE requirements, including 2 hours of ACPE-approved immunization-related CE during each renewal cycle. |
| Source: Kentucky State Board of Pharmacy | |
| LOUISIANA | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) - to obtain the 'Pharmacy Technician Certificate' Pharmacy Technician Candidate (PTC) – a 24-month non-renewable training period |
| Training | To work as a pharmacy technician in Louisiana, you must register with the Louisiana Board of Pharmacy (LBP) as either a Pharmacy Technician Candidate (PTC) or Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT). Applicants must be 18 years or older to obtain the Pharmacy Technician Certificate, complete a state and FBI criminal background check, and first obtain PTC registration, which serves as a 24-month, non-renewable training credential. You must be registered to one of the following three pathways to obtain your PTC credential: - Option A: be at least 18 years old and enrolled in a Board-approved, nationally accredited pharmacy technician training program. - Option B: be at least 16 years old and enrolled in a Louisiana Department of Education pharmacy technician career pathway program (LASID required for verification). - Option C: be at least 18 years old with verification from a Louisiana licensed pharmacist in good standing who will provide training in a pharmacy that is not on probation with the Board. Training requirements to obtain your Pharmacy Technician Certificate vary depending on the pathway selected: - Registered through Option A: you must complete Board-approved, nationally accredited training program and the required practical experience outlined in the program curriculum. - Registered through Options B or C: you must complete at least 600 hours of supervised pharmacy experience in Louisiana, with both the pharmacy and supervising pharmacist required to be in good standing with the Board. Completion of training must be verified and submitted to the Board. Board-approved training programs include both PTCB and NHA qualifications. After completing all required education and practical training, candidates may apply for the Pharmacy Technician Certificate. |
| Registration fee | Pharmacy Technician Certificate - $100.00 PTC registration fee - $50.00 |
| Renewal | Renewal is required on an annual basis, by June 30 Renewal fee: $60.00 |
| Continuous education | Continuous education is required each year for certified pharmacy technicians in Louisiana. This includes pharmacy technician-specific ACPE or State Board-approved CE unit (10 contact hours). |
| Source: Louisiana State Board of Pharmacy | |
| MAINE | |
| License | Required |
| Tier(s) | Licensed Pharmacy Technician |
| Training | You must be licensed by Maine State Board of Pharmacy to work as a pharmacy technician. Licenses expire on December 31 each year. There is no minimum age or education requirements, though employers or training programs may have their own requirements. You are required to undertake a background check. You must receive experience through a training program developed by a pharmacy under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. It typically takes up to 3-months to receive the requisite training and to receive your license. Note: national certification is not required to become a licensed pharmacy technician. |
| Licensure fee | $20.00 Criminal background fee: $21.00 Submit an application through the Maine OPOR online portal. |
| Licensure renewal | Renewal is required on an annual basis before December 31. Fee: Free Late renewal: $50.00 You must be employed as a pharmacy technician in order to renew your licensure. Licenses may be renewed within 90 days of expiration by paying a $50 late fee. After 90 days, applicants must reapply as a new applicant and meet all licensing requirements. |
| Continuous education | Continuous education (CE) is not required to maintain or renew your licensure. However, holders of national certification, either through PTCB or NHA, have separate CE requirements to satisfy. |
| Source: Maine State Board of Pharmacy | |
| MARYLAND | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) Pharmacy Technician Trainee (PTT) Validated Pharmacy Technician (VPT) |
| Training | You must be at least 17 years old and hold a High School diploma, GED, or equivalent. You will also be required to undertake a criminal background check and fingerprinting. You must have completed a board-approved training program with 160-hours of work experience, followed by a board-approved exam; or, to have completed national certification (either through PTCB or NHA). Note that Maryland also offer a pharmacy technician trainee position. This is a 6-month, non-renewable period to work as a pharmacy technician. You must be actively completing a board-approved program during this window. Registered Pharmacy Technicians with one year of experience + product validation credential can register to the Validated Pharmacy Technician (VPhT) status. |
| Registration fee | $45.00 |
| Licensure renewal | Renewal is required every 2-years Fee - $45.00 |
| Continuous education | First renewal - 10-hours of CE Subsequent renewal cycles - 20-hours of board-approved CE every 2-years CE records should be kept for a minimum of 4-years |
| Source: Maryland State Board of Pharmacy | |
| MASSACHUSETTS | |
| License | Required |
| Tier(s) | Licensed Pharmacy Technician Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) Pharmacy Technician Trainee (PTT) |
| Training | Massachusetts requires pharmacy technicians to register with the Board of Registration in Pharmacy (BORP). Applicants may register as a Pharmacy Technician Trainee from age 16, provided they meet the education, character, and criminal-history requirements; trainee status generally lasts no more than 1 year or 1,500 hours. Full pharmacy technician licensure requires applicants to be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent. Applicants must complete a CORI criminal background check and qualify through national certification, a Board-approved training program, or at least 500 hours of trainee employment followed by an approved assessment examination. Board-approved training programs may include at least 120 hours of theoretical and 120 hours of practical instruction. |
| Licensure fee | $150.00 Submit an online application to the Health Professions Licensing Portal. |
| Licensure renewal | Pharmacy technician licenses must be renewed every 2 years on the licensee's birthday. Renewal fee: $60.00 |
| Continuous education | No CE requirements are required by BORP. National certification requires separate CE requirements (20-hours to be completed over 2-year period). |
| Source: Massachusetts Board of Registration in Pharmacy | |
| MICHIGAN | |
| License | Required |
| Tier(s) | Licensed Pharmacy Technician Temporary Pharmacy Technician License Limited Pharmacy Technician License |
| Training | To work as a pharmacy technician in Michigan you must be licensed with LARA's Bureau of Professional Licensing. You must register through their MiPLUS online portal. There is no minimum age requirement, though you are required to hold a High School diploma, GED, or equivalent. You are also required to complete a criminal background check. Licensed pharmacy technicians are required to complete a board-approved program. Note that national certification exams, either through PTCB or NHA, can be used to satisfy this requirement. You may also be licensed by completing an employer-based training program and examination. You are also required to have completed at least 2-hours in implicit bias training. Temporary pharmacy technician licenses last 12-months. To continue working as a pharmacy technician beyond this period, you must complete a board-approved training program. Note that this temporary license is non-renewable. Limited licenses are available on a grandfathered basis. |
| Licensure fee | $137.70 Note: this is the application fee + 2-year licensing fee Temporary license fee: $15.30 (valid for 1-year, non-renewable) |
| Licensure renewal | License renewal is required every 2-years Renewal fee: $61.20 Renewal deadline: June 30 |
| Continuous education | 20-hours of CE per 2-year renewal cycle. For a license held for more than one year but less than two years, the renewal applicant must complete 10-hours of CE. In both cases, this must include: - 1-hour Pain & Symptom Management - 1-hour Patient Safety - 1-hour Pharmacy Law Pharmacy technicians must complete 1 hour of implicit bias training each year as part of their continuing education requirements. For licensure, 2 hours of implicit bias training are required. |
| Source: Michigan State Board of Pharmacy | |
| MINNESOTA | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) |
| Training | You must be at least 18-years old and have completed a High School diploma or GED. You must complete a board-approved training program within 12-months of being registered as a pharmacy technician. Note that both PTCB and NHA are recognized as part of the board-approved training program list. |
| Registration fee | $60.00 |
| Renewal | Renewal is required on an annual basis Fee: $60.00 Late fee: an additional $30.00 |
| Continuous education | 20-hours of board-approved CE must be completed per each 2-year renewal cycle. |
| Source: Minnesota State Board of Pharmacy | |
| MISSISSIPPI | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) |
| Training | You must be at least 18-years old, have completed a High School diploma or GED, and pass a criminal background check. Registered pharmacy technicians typically undertake a pharmacy program within the pharmacy they work (under the supervision of a registered pharmacist), or through separate accredited training program whilst the employee is under the employment of that pharmacist. National certification is not required for registration. However, it can open the door to greater professional roles and responsibilities. |
| Registration fee | $50.00 Background check fee: $40.00 |
| Renewal | Renewal is required annually Fee: $50.00 Late fee: an additional $50.00 |
| Continuous education | Mississippi State Board of Pharmacy does not mandate CE requirements for registered pharmacy technicians. Holders of national certification have separate CE requirements. |
| Source: Mississippi State Board of Pharmacy | |
| MISSOURI | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) |
| Training | There are no minimum age or education requirements for pharmacy technicians, although individual training programs and employers may establish their own requirements. Applicants may begin working as a pharmacy technician before registration is approved, provided they have submitted their registration application and satisfied all other applicable registration requirements. Applicants must undergo a criminal background check and submit fingerprints. Background check fee - $43.50 (subject to change, consult the latest application fee schedule for background & fingerprint fees). National certification is not required to become a registered pharmacy technician; however, it may be required for advanced technician duties. |
| Registration fee | $40.00 Applicants should submit an application through the MOPRO online portal. |
| Renewal | Renewal required on an annual basis by May 31. Fee: $40.00 |
| Continuous education | Missouri State Board of Pharmacy does not require CE for registered pharmacy technicians. Holders of national certification (PTCB or NHA) must meet separate CE criteria (20-hours every 2-years with 1-hour in Pharmacy Law and 1-hour in Patient Safety). |
| Source: Missouri State Board of Pharmacy | |
| MONTANA | |
| License | Required |
| Tier(s) | Provisional Certified Pharmacy Technician Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) Note: provisional holders of the license are required to pursue national certification (or other board-approved certification programs) within 1-2 years of registration. |
| Training | You must be licensed to work as a pharmacy technician in Montana. You must be 18-years old, hold a High School diploma or GED, and be of good moral character. You must also be currently employed by a pharmacy in the state. Pharmacy technicians must complete national certification (PTCB or NHA), or to complete a board-approved program, to become licensed. |
| Licensure fee | $35.00 |
| Licensure renewal | Renewal required on an annual basis Fee: $30.00 Late fee: $30.00 |
| Continuous education | Montana State Board of Pharmacy does not mandate CE requirements for registered pharmacy technicians. However, technicians are required to maintain their national certification (PTCB or ExCPT) for CE purposes. |
| Source: Montana State Board of Pharmacy | |
| NEBRASKA | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) |
| Training | You must be registered to work as a pharmacy technician in Nebraska. You must be 18-years old, hold a High School diploma or GED, not been convicted of any non-alcohol, drug-related misdemeanor or felony within the past 5 years, and you are registered with DHHS. Pharmacy technicians must complete a board-approved training program for registration which includes both national certification exams, PTCB or ExCPT. |
| Registration fee | $25.00 |
| Renewal | Renewal is required every 2 years Fee: $25.00 Reinstatement fee: $35.00 |
| Continuous education | Nebraska State Board of Pharmacy does not mandate CE requirements for registered pharmacy technicians. However, pharmacy technicians are required to maintain their national certification (PTCB or ExCPT) for CE purposes. |
| Source: Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services | |
| NEVADA | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmaceutical Technician (PT) Pharmaceutical Technician-in-Training (PTT) |
| Training | You must be registered to the Nevada Board of Pharmacy to work as a pharmacy technician, either as a pharmaceutical technician-in-training (PTT) or as a fully registered pharmaceutical technician (PT). There is no minimum age requirement though you are required to hold a High School diploma, GED, or equivalent. Registered pharmaceutical technicians are required to complete the Nevada Department of Public Safety waiver form and to have their fingerprints taken. Note that these requirements do not apply to PTT applicants. There are four pathways to become a registered pharmaceutical technician: - Completed 1,500 hours of practical experience in a pharmacy under the supervision of a registered pharmacy. - Completed a board-approved or ASHP-approved training program. Note that PTCB and NHA-recognized programs satisfy this requirement. - Completion of a federal military pharmacy technician training program. - Out-of-state licensing: your current registration must be in active, good standing and you must have completed at least 1,500 hours of practical experience in a pharmacy |
| Registration fee | $50.00 (for both PT & PTT) Fingerprint submission fee - $39.00 (only applies to PT applicants) |
| Renewal | Renewal is required every 2 years by October 31 on even-numbered years Renewal fee: $50.00 Late renewal fee: an additional $25.00 |
| Continuous education | 12-hours of CE is required per 2-year renewal cycle and must be completed before renewal. 1-hour must be in a Pharmacy Law course approved by the State Board. Note that national certification CE requirements can substitute for the 12-hours of CE. The pharmacy law requirement is separate and cannot be substituted. |
| Source: Nevada State Board of Pharmacy | |
| NEW HAMPSHIRE | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) Advanced Pharmacy Technician (APhT) |
| Training | You must be registered to work as a pharmacy technician in New Hampshire by registering through the OPLC-Board process. You must register within 15-days of starting work. For basic registration you must be at least 16-years old, have completed a High School diploma or GED, and have committed no drug-related crimes or felonies. You must complete at least 80-hours on-the-job training under the supervision of a registered pharmacist. Certified pharmacy technicians must be at least 18-years old and have completed a national certification exam, either through PTCB or NHA. Advanced pharmacy technicians are required to undertake further studies and experience, including a pharmacy law exam and specialist skills assessment. |
| Registration fee | $100.00 |
| Renewal | Renewal is required every 2 years Fee: $100.00 |
| Continuous education | There is no mandatory CE requirement to maintain your pharmacy technician registration in New Hampshire. Certified pharmacy technicians must meet separate CE requirements required by your certification body (20 hours of CE over 2-years). |
| Source: Office of Professional Licensure & Certification (Board of Pharmacy) | |
| NEW JERSEY | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) Pharmacy Technician Applicant |
| Training | Pharmacy technician applicants may register and practice for up to 180 days while completing the registration process. This period is non-renewable and non-extendable, and applicants must register with the state within 10 days of beginning employment. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, hold a High School diploma, GED, or equivalent qualification, and attest to English language proficiency. Applicants seeking registration as pharmacy technicians must undergo a criminal background check. Note that fingerprint submission is required as part of this background check. Applicants must complete on-the-job training and gain practical experience under the supervision of a registered pharmacist. National certification through PTCB or ExCPT is not generally required for pharmacy technician registration in New Jersey. However, if a pharmacy operates with a pharmacist-to-technician ratio greater than 1:2, technicians working under that ratio must meet additional certification or Board-approved training requirements. |
| Registration fee | You must submit your application through the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs online application portal. Application fee - $50.00 A separate registration fee also applies: $70 for initial registration during the first year of the biennial period or $35 during the second year. |
| Renewal | Renewal is required every 2 years. Fee: $70.00 Late penalty fee: $25.00 |
| Continuous education | No mandated CE requirements are stated for pharmacy technicians in New Jersey. However, if you are a certified pharmacy technician, you must meet the separate CE requirements of your certification body (20 hours of CE over 2-years). |
| Source: New Jersey Board of Pharmacy | |
| NEW MEXICO | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Non-Certified Pharmacy Technician Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) |
| Training | Non-certified pharmacy technicians may work for up to one year under this status, after which it cannot be renewed. To become certified, pharmacy technicians must complete a board-approved certification training program within 1-year of registration. Note that national certification, either through PTCB or NHA, satisfies this requirement. There is no minimum age requirement. Though employer and certification training programs may have their own requirements. |
| Registration fee | $25.00 Submit your application through the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department online portal. |
| Renewal | Renewal is required every 2 years Fee: $30.00 |
| Continuous education | No mandated CE requirements are stated for pharmacy technicians in New Mexico. However, if you are a certified pharmacy technician, you must meet the separate CE requirements of your certification body (20 hours of CE over 2-years). Pharmacy technicians authorized to administer vaccines must separately complete 2-hours of vaccine-related CE per renewal cycle. |
| Source: New Mexico State Board of Pharmacy | |
| NEW YORK | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (licensed) |
| Training | You must be registered to practice as a pharmacy technician in New York. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a High School diploma or GED. You will also be required to disclose any disciplinary actions held against you (as part of Form 1, submitted through the NYSED online application portal). National certification – either through PTCB or NHA – is required to become a licensed Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) in the state of New York, as outlined by NYSED. New York also offers the position of unlicensed ‘supportive personnel’ which have a limited range of allowable tasks. Licensed RPhTs in New York can perform standard duties such as labelling, preparing, compounding, and dispensing medicines. |
| Licensure fee | $175.00 - with this total including: - License fee: $75.00 - Registration fee: $100.00 |
| Licensure renewal | Renewal required every 3 years Fee: $100.00 |
| Continuous education | No mandated CE requirements are stated for pharmacy technicians in New York. However, if you are a certified pharmacy technician, you must meet the separate CE requirements of your certification body (20 hours of CE over 2-years). Vaccinating pharmacy technicians have separate CE requirements to fulfil. |
| Source: New York State Board of Pharmacy – License Requirements | |
| NORTH CAROLINA | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) |
| Training | You must be registered with North Carolina Board of Pharmacy (NCBOP) to work as a pharmacy technician. There are two pathways: non-certified & certified. You must hold or are working towards a High School diploma, GED, or equivalent. Non-certified pharmacy technicians: the pharmacist-manager may hire an eligible applicant but must notify the State Board of Pharmacy within 21 days of employment. The required training must be completed within 180 days, after which the technician must register within 30 days of completing the training. Certified pharmacy technicians must complete a board-approved certification program. Both PTCB and NHA satisfy this requirement. |
| Registration fee | $30.00 You must create an NABP e-profile number and apply through the North Carolina Board of Pharmacy Licensure Gateway. |
| Renewal | Renewal is required on an annual basis from November 1 - December 31 Renewal fee: $30.00 |
| Continuous education | Pharmacy technicians are not required to complete CE to maintain their registration in North Carolina. Certified pharmacy technician are required to meet the separate CE requirements of your certification body (for PTCB, this is 20 hours of CE over 2-years - with 1-hour in Patient Safety and 1-hour in Pharmacy Law). |
| Source: North Carolina State Board of Pharmacy (Pharmacy Technician) | |
| NORTH DAKOTA | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) Pharmacy Technician-in-Training (PTT) |
| Training | You must be registered to the North Dakota Board of Pharmacy to practice as a pharmacy technician. There are two levels - Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) and Pharmacy Technician-in-Training (PTT). Note that there are no minimum age or education requirements, however training programs and employers may have their own requirements. A criminal background check is currently not required. Pharmacy technicians-in-training have 2 years to complete their required training and obtain certification (unless an extension is granted). Qualifying training may be completed through an ASHP-approved on-the-job training program or another NK Board of Pharmacy-approved training program. All technicians must practice under the supervision and oversight of the pharmacist-in-charge. National certification is required to obtain full Registered Pharmacy Technician status. Both PTCB and NHA satisfy this requirement. |
| Registration fee | $35.00 Late fee: an additional $10.00 Pharmacy technician-in-training - $10.00 fee paid each year for a maximum of 2 years |
| Renewal | Renewal is required on an annual basis by March 1 Fee: $35.00 |
| Continuous education | CE is not required for your first renewal. For your second and subsequent renewal, 10-hours of CE are required. The annual reporting period runs from March 1 through the last day of February. Records must be kept for a minimum of 2 years. |
| Source: North Dakota Board of Pharmacy | |
| OHIO | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) |
| Training | There are three tiers in which to work as a pharmacy technician in Ohio: Trainee – non-renewable 18-month period Registered – must complete a board-approved training program Certified – must complete a board-approved training program + national certification (PTCB or NHA) Trainees must complete a board-approved training program and/or national certification to continue their license to practice. |
| Registration fee | $65.00 – paid every 2 years by both registered and certified pharmacy technicians. - Late renewal – an additional $50.00 - Trainee fee - $40.00 |
| Renewal | Renewal is required every 2 years Fee: $65.00 |
| Continuous education | 10-hours of CE is required in the state of Ohio every 2-years. This must include 2-hours of Pharmacy Law and 2-hours of Patient / Medication Safety. Certified pharmacy technicians maintain separate CE requirements. |
| Source: Ohio State Board of Pharmacy – (Pharmacy Technicians) | |
| OKLAHOMA | |
| Permit | Required |
| Tier(s) | Pharmacy Technician Permit |
| Training | To work as a pharmacy technician in Oklahoma, you must obtain a permit from the Oklahoma State Board of Pharmacy (OSBP). Permits must be renewed annually and expire on the last day of the permit holder's birth month. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a High School diploma, GED, or equivalent. Applicants enrolled in a qualifying Career and Technical Education (CTE) or Youth Apprenticeship program may register at 17 years of age. A criminal background check is not required, though you must demonstrate good moral character. You must complete Phase I (didactic) training and board exam before applying and then complete Phase II (practice) within 90-days of receiving your permit. You can work as a pharmacy technician once Phase I training has been completed and a permit has been granted. Note: national certification is not required to obtain your permit. A board-approved training program does not need to be completed. |
| Registration fee | $40.00 |
| Renewal | Permits to practice as a pharmacy technician must be renewed annually Renewal fee: $40.00 |
| Continuous education | There are no OSBP CE requirements to renew your permit. |
| Source: Oklahoma State Board of Pharmacy | |
| OREGON | |
| License | Required |
| Tier(s) | Pharmacy Technician (PT) Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician (COPT) |
| Training | To work as a pharmacy technician in Oregon, you must obtain a licence from the Oregon State Board of Pharmacy. Oregon offers two licensure categories: Pharmacy Technician (PT) and Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician (COPT). Applicants must be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent, and complete a criminal background check, including fingerprinting. Applications are submitted through the eGov/MyLicense online portal. Applicants applying for a Pharmacy Technician (PT) licence receive on-the-job training under the supervision of a registered pharmacist. To qualify for a Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician (COPT) licence, you must hold national certification through either the PTCB or NHA. |
| Licensure fee | $115.00 - in total, and this includes: - $70.00 application fee - $45.00 fingerprint fee Note: the State Board also notes that Fieldprint charges an additional $12.50 fee when you schedule your fingerprint appointment. |
| Licensure renewal | Renewal is required every 2 years before June 30 Renewal fee - $140.00 Late renewal penalty - $20.00 An additional $4.00 Workforce Data Collection fee must also be paid. |
| Continuous education | You must complete 20 contact hours of continuing education (CE) during each two-year renewal cycle. ACPE-accredited credits must be tracked through NABP CPE Monitor, while board-approved and ACCME-approved credits must be properly recorded or uploaded. You are required to retain all CE documentation for at least six years. For the first licence renewal, technicians who have not been licensed for at least one year before 1 July of the renewal period are only required to complete the cultural competency CE requirement. |
| Source: Oregon Board of Pharmacy – Pharmacy Technician Licensure | |
| PENNSYLVANIA | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) |
| Training | Pharmacy technician trainees must be at least 16-years old, whereas registered pharmacy technicians must be at least 17 years old. Trainee period expires after 2-years and is non-renewable. You must complete a board-approved training program within this 2-year period to advance to the full registered pharmacy technician status. Registered pharmacy technicians must hold a High School diploma, or equivalent, and undergo a criminal background check. You must also have completed a board-approved training program. National certification is not required. You can register through the PALS online portal of the state board website. |
| Registration fee | $30.00 |
| Renewal | Renewal is required every 2 years Fee: $70.00 |
| Continuous education | Pennsylvania State Board of Pharmacy requires 3 hours of board-approved child abuse recognition and reporting training for initial licensure. 2-hours of child abuse recognition and reporting training is required for each subsequent biennial renewal cycle. |
| Source: Pennsylvania Board of Pharmacy – Pharmacy Technician | |
| RHODE ISLAND | |
| License | Required |
| Tier(s) | Pharmacy Technician I Pharmacy Technician II Both forms of licensed pharmacy technician. |
| Training | Pharmacy Technician I requirements: - Be at least 18-years old - High School diploma, or equivalent - Background check / no felony convictions - Completion of a board-approved Pharmacy Technician I training program; or employer-based training as delivered by a pharmacist-in-charge (PIC) Pharmacy Technician II applicants must meet these criteria too (except for the board-approved course), as well as having completed national certification, either through the PTCB or NHA. |
| Licensure fee | $25.00 |
| Licensure renewal | Renewal is required every 2 years Fee: $25.00 |
| Continuous education | No CE requirements for Pharmacy Technician I licensees. Pharmacy Technician II licensees are required to complete 10-hours of CE per each calendar year. These records must be maintained for at least 2-years. This may be included as part of the 20-hours of CE mandated by your national certification, PTCB or NHA CE requirements. |
| Source: Rhode Island Department of Health - Pharmacy | |
| SOUTH CAROLINA | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) State-Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) |
| Training | You are required to register to the South Carolina Board of Pharmacy to work as a pharmacy technician. There is no minimum age or education requirements for standard registration, however employers or training programs may have their own requirements. State-certified pharmacy technicians are required to hold a High School diploma, GED, or equivalent. A board-approved program is not required for standard registration. You must train and receive experience on-the-job under the supervision of a registered pharmacist. State-certified pharmacy technicians are required to complete: - An ASHP-accredited training program - National certification (either through PTCB or NHA) - 1,000 hours of supervised technician duties (as documented on the Affidavit of Experience) - Full CE compliance |
| Registration fee | $56.00 Note that the registration period is runs from July 1 to June 30. |
| Renewal | Renewal is required on an annual basis. Fee: $21.00 Late fee: an additional $10.00 |
| Continuous education | 10-hours of ACPE or CME Category 1 continuous education required per each renewal cycle. Note that this only applies to your second and subsequent renewal cycle. |
| Source: South Carolina Board of Pharmacy – Pharmacy Technicians | |
| SOUTH DAKOTA | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) |
| Training | You are required to register to the South Carolina Board of Pharmacy to work as a pharmacy technician. There is two registration tiers - Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) and Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT). You must be at least 16-years old. Note that there are no minimum education requirements, though training programs and employers may have their own requirements. A background check and fingerprints is currently not required. To work as a registered pharmacy technician, you must either be employed by a pharmacy or enrolled in an approved high school job exploration program. You must apply for registration within 30 days of accepting employment. National certification must be obtained within 2-years of registration. |
| Registration fee | $25.00 |
| Renewal | Renewal is required on an annual basis by October 31. Fee: $25.00 |
| Continuous education | Non-certified pharmacy technicians are required to complete 6-hours of CE within the past 24-months. Certified pharmacy technicians are only required to complete the CE requirements of their national certification (either PTCB or NHA). |
| Source: South Dakota Board of Pharmacy – Pharmacy Technicians | |
| TENNESSEE | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) |
| Training | You are required to register to the Tennessee Board of Pharmacy to work as a pharmacy technician. Probationary exemption: individuals classified by their employer as probationary employees may perform pharmacy technician duties without registration for up to 90 days from their date of employment. The exemption expires after 90 days, at which point the individual must be registered with the Tennessee Board of Pharmacy to continue performing pharmacy technician duties (under Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 1140-02-.02.2.(a); amended October 16, 2025). Note that there are no minimum education or age requirements, though training programs and employers may set their own requirements. Tennessee does not require pharmacy technicians to complete a formal training program or obtain national certification to register. Training may be provided by the employer, although additional training and certification requirements apply to technicians who perform certain expanded duties. A criminal background check and fingerprint submission through IdentoGo is required. |
| Registration fee | $55.00 Submit an online application through LARS; the Licensure and Regulatory System. Note: an additional peer-assistance fee of $10.00 must also be paid. IdentoGo background check fee: $37.15 |
| Renewal | Renewal is required every 2 years, on or before the last day of the month in which the registration expires. Fee: $75.00 In addition to this, a $10.00 peer-assistance fee must be cleared. Late fee: $10.00 per month of delay |
| Continuous education | Tennessee Board of Pharmacy does not require pharmacy technicians to complete continuing education (CE) to maintain their registration. Holders of national certification (PTCB or NHA) must meet separate CE requirements. PTCB-certification holders must complete 20 hours of CE over 2-years, with 1-hour in Pharmacy Law and 1-hour in Patient Safety. |
| Source: Tennessee State Board of Pharmacy | |
| TEXAS | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Pharmacy Technician Trainee (PTT) Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) |
| Training | You are required to register to the Texas Board of Pharmacy to work as a pharmacy technician. You must be 18-years old and hold a High School diploma or equivalent. You are also required to undergo a criminal background check and to have your fingerprints taken. You can apply to work as a pharmacy technician-in-training for a period of 2-years. This is non-renewable and non-extendable. To work as a registered pharmacy technician beyond this period, you must complete and pass national certification – either through the PTCB or ExCPT exam. Alternatively, you can skip the 2-year training period by directly taking the national certification exam and going straight into a registered pharmacy technician position. |
| Registration fee | $88.00 Fingerprint fees are typically less than $49.00 |
| Renewal | Renewal is required every 2 years Fee: $85.00 Delinquency fee: $40.00 Renewal applications are only available within 60-days of license expiration. |
| Continuous education | The Texas State Board require registered pharmacy technicians to complete 20-hours of CE which must include: 1-hour of Texas Pharmacy Law 1-hour of Human Trafficking Prevention |
| Source(s): Texas State Board of Pharmacy – Pharmacy Technicians Schedule of Fees | |
| UTAH | |
| License | Required |
| Tier(s) | Pharmacy Technician Trainee (PTT) Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) |
| Training | You are required to license to the Utah Board of Pharmacy to work as a pharmacy technician, as provided by the Utah Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL). You are also required to undergo a criminal background check and to have your fingerprints taken. Pharmacy technician trainees are required to complete national certification – either through the PTCB or NHA – to upgrade to the status of registered pharmacy technician. |
| Licensure fee | Total fee: $92.00 This includes the application fee & fingerprint-related search fees. |
| Licensure renewal | Renewal is required every 2 years Fee: $57.00 |
| Continuous education | The Utah State Board require licensed pharmacy technicians to complete 20-hours of CE per renewal cycle. Note that national certification CE, either through PTCB or NHA, can be used to satisfy this requirement. |
| Source: Utah State Board of Pharmacy | |
| VERMONT | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) Pharmacy Technician Trainee (PTT) |
| Training | To practice as a pharmacy technician, you are required to register to the Vermont Board of Pharmacy at the Office of Professional Regulation. You must be at least 16 years old (for either trainee or registration). There are no minimum education requirements, though employers and training programs may set their own requirements. Note that to become registered, you are currently not required to undertake a criminal background check or to submit fingerprints. This trainee license is valid for a period of 4 years, and is non-renewable. You are required to complete either national certification or a board-approved training program to become fully registered. Note: under new rules, an individual either delivering or cashiering drugs in Vermont is not required to register. |
| Registration fee | $70.00 You must submit an application through the OPR's Online Services System. |
| Renewal | Renewal is required every 2 years by July 31 on odd-numbered years Fee: $85.00 |
| Continuous education | Effective February 1 2026, Vermont State Board require registered pharmacy technicians to complete 6-hours of board-approved CE per renewal cycle. Note that holders of national certification (PTCB or NHA) have separate CE requirements to satisfy; 20-hours every 2-years with 1-hour in Pharmacy Law and 1-hour in Patient Safety. Pharmacy technicians authorized to administer vaccines are required to complete 2-hours of board-approved CE per renewal cycle. |
| Source: Vermont State Board of Pharmacy – Pharmacy Technicians | |
| VIRGINIA | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) Pharmacy Technician Trainee (PTT) |
| Training | To practice as a pharmacy technician, you are required to register to the Virginia State Board of Pharmacy. A pharmacy technician cannot perform pharmacy duties until they have been issued a trainee license or are fully registered. There is no minimum age requirement, though employers or training programs may have their own requirement. There are also no minimum education requirements set by the board. Trainees are required to enroll in a board-approved pharmacy technician training program. The trainee period is 2-years and is non-extendable and non-renewable. Board-approved training programs including ASHP/ACPE-accredited programs, Virginia Department of Education CTE programs, federal or military training programs, or programs recognized by the PTCB or NHA. To become a registered pharmacy technicians, you must obtain national certification, either through PTCB or NHA. |
| Registration fee | $35.00 Trainee registration fee: $20.00 Submit an application through the Virginia Board/DHP online portal. |
| Renewal | Renewal is required on an annual basis by December 31. Fee: $35.00 New registrants on or later than July 1 can wait until December of the following year to renew. |
| Continuous education | Virginia State Board require registered pharmacy technicians to complete 5 contact hours or 0.5 CEUs of board-approved CE per renewal cycle. Note that this documentation must be kept for at least 2-years. Separate CE requirements exist for national certification – either through PTCB or NHA. |
| Source(s): Virginia State Board of Pharmacy – Pharmacy Technicians Virginia State Law – Registration of Pharmacy Technicians | |
| WASHINGTON | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) |
| Training | To practice as a pharmacy technician, you are required to receive your credential by registering to the Washington Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission. Requirements to become a fully registered pharmacy technician in Washington include: - To be at least 18 years old. - To hold a High School diploma, GED, or equivalent. - To pass a background check (fingerprints may be required, this is determined on a case-by-case basis by the DOH) - To study and pass a Commission-approved pharmacy technician training program. - To complete 8-hours of pharmacy law – specific to Washington and federal legislation - under the guidance of a registered pharmacist. - To pass an NCAA-accredited national certification exam within 1-year of completing the board-approved program. Note that both PTCB and ExCPT satisfy this requirement. |
| Registration fee | $140.00 Submit an application to Washington DOH - either online or in print. |
| Renewal | Renewal is every two years, on or before the credential holder's birthday. Renewal fee: $140.00 Late renewal penalty: $70.00 |
| Continuous education | Commission requirements for registered pharmacy technicians include 20-hours of ACPE-accredited CE per renewal period. Note that at least 1-hour of this 20-hour CE must be in health equity training. |
| Source: Washington State Department of Health (Pharmacy Professions) | |
| WEST VIRGINIA | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) Pharmacy Technician Trainee (PTT) |
| Training | To practice as a pharmacy technician, you are required to register to the West Virginia State Board of Pharmacy. Requirements to become a Registered Pharmacy Technician include: - To hold a High School diploma, GED, or equivalent - To complete a criminal background check and submit fingerprints - National certification required, either through PTCB or NHA - Completion of a Board-approved competency training program Pharmacy Technician Trainees must either enroll in a Board-approved pharmacy technician training program or complete an employer-based competency training program while working in a pharmacy. To become a Registered Pharmacy Technician, trainees must also obtain national certification through either the PTCB or NHA. |
| Registration fee | $25.00 |
| Renewal | Renewal is required every 2-years Fee: $20.00 Late fee: an additional $20.00 Must renew before June 30 each year. |
| Continuous education | 20-hours of CE must be completed per renewal cycle. This must include 1-hour of Pharmacy Law and 1-hour of Patient Safety. Note that completing CE through your national certification, either through PTCB or NHA, can be used to satisfy this requirement. |
| Source: West Virginia Legislature – Pharmacy Technician Registration | |
| WISCONSIN | |
| Registration | Required |
| Tier(s) | Registered Pharmacy Technician (RPhT) |
| Training | To practice as a pharmacy technician, you are required to register to the WI Pharmacy Examining Board of the Department of Safety & Professional Services. Requirement to become registered include: - You must be at least 18 years old. - Hold a High School diploma or equivalent. Alternatively, you must be enrolled in an DWD-approved Youth Apprenticeship for pharmacy technicians. - You must work and train as a pharmacy technician under the supervision of a registered pharmacist. Note: national certification is not required for registration. |
| Registration fee | $30.00 |
| Renewal | Renewal is required every 2-years Fee: $30.00 Late fee: an additional $55.00 Must renew before May 31 each even-numbered year. |
| Continuous education | Wisconsin State Board of Pharmacy does not currently require CE to maintain your registration / renewal. |
| Source: Department of Safety & Professional Services – Pharmacy Technician | |
| WYOMING | |
| License | Required |
| Tier(s) | Licensed Pharmacy Technician Pharmacy Technician-in-Training |
| Training | To practice as a pharmacy technician, you are required to register to the Wyoming State Board of Pharmacy. Requirements for licensure: - To be at least 18 years old - To hold a High School diploma, or equivalent - To complete a Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation background check and to submit fingerprints - To pass national certification exam – either PTCB or NHA are accepted pathways The pharmacy technician-in-training permit is valid for a period of 2-years. This is non-renewable and non-extendable. You must be working in a pharmacy under the supervision of a pharmacist-in-charge (PIC). To obtain full licensure, you are required to complete a national certification exam. |
| Licensure fee | $50.00 - Pharmacy technician-in-training permit: $15.00 - Fingerprint processing fee: $50.00 - Background check: $50.00 |
| Licensure renewal | Licensure renewal is required on an annual basis by December 31. Fee: $50.00 Late penalty fee: $35.00 |
| Continuous education | Wyoming State Board of Pharmacy requires licensed pharmacy technicians to complete 10-hours of ACPE-approved CPE from your second renewal onwards. |
| Source: Wyoming State Board of Pharmacy – Pharmacy Technicians | |
Disclaimer.
The information in this guide has been researched and verified against official sources, including State Boards of Pharmacy and other regulatory authorities, as well as state legislation, and is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of August 2026. Direct links to all primary sources are provided throughout the guide to help readers verify the information for themselves. Note that this guide is updated weekly to reflect the best available evidence on pharmacy technician state requirements.
Pharmacy technician laws, regulations, fees, and renewal requirements are subject to change and may be updated without notice. While we strive to keep this guide current, you should always confirm the latest requirements with your state's Board of Pharmacy or other applicable regulatory authority before applying for registration, licensure, or certification.
If you have questions about your individual circumstances, contact the appropriate regulatory authority directly for guidance.
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PTCB Test Prep Editorial Team
PTCB Test Prep has developed e-learning resources for pharmacy technicians since 2019. Our editorial team researches and updates each study guide using authoritative sources. Content is regularly reviewed and updated for accuracy, clarity and alignment with the current PTCE content outline.
