Alabama State Requirements

You must register with the Alabama State Board of Pharmacy (ALBOP) before working as a pharmacy technician. You cannot work as a pharmacy technician before registration has been completed.

You must be at least 17 years old.

There is no minimum education requirement, though training programs or employers may set their own requirements.

Pharmacy technicians initially registered on or after January 1, 2020 must complete a Board-approved pharmacy technician training program within six months of registration. Proof of completion must be submitted to the Board within 30 days of completing the training. Note that the board of pharmacy may grant an extension of up to six months. PTCB and NHA certification examinations satisfy this training requirement. Therefore, national certification is not required simply to obtain registration, but passing a Board-recognized certification examination can satisfy the mandatory training requirement.

You must undergo a Board-approved criminal background check when applying for registration or reinstatement. The current background check fee as $40.

The initial application fee is $60. Applications are submitted through the Board's Gateway system. You must create a Gateway account, select New Pharmacy Technician Application, submit payment, and upload the required documents.

Pharmacy technician registrations are renewed biennially in odd-numbered years and expire on December 31 of the odd-numbered renewal year. The renewal fee is due by October 31 and becomes delinquent after December 31.

The biennial renewal fee is $60. A late renewal incurs a $5 penalty for each lapsed month, subject to the applicable maximum.

Registered pharmacy technicians must notify the ALBOP of a change of employment within 10 days, providing the required information about the former and new pharmacy.

Under Alabama State Board of Pharmacy Rule 680-X-2-.46, pharmacy technicians registered in Alabama may administer vaccines under the direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist after completing the Board's required immunization training, CPR certification, and other requirements. The rule was effective October 15, 2021, under the Board's statutory authority in Alabama Code §34-23-92.