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How to Become a Pharmacy Technician for 2025

Imed Bouchrika, Phd

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

The landscape of pharmacy technician careers in the USA presents a complex web of information, often riddled with inconsistencies and outdated data. Prospective technicians face a daunting task: sifting through fragmented state regulations, deciphering diverse certification requirements, and discerning accurate salary expectations. Discrepancies between national averages and local realities compound the issue, leaving many unsure of where to begin. This guide aims to demystify the process, providing clarity on education, licensing, and career advancement. By consolidating reliable sources and offering expert insights, we empower you to make informed decisions and confidently pursue your pharmacy technician goals.

Key Things You Should Know About Becoming a Pharmacy Technician

  • Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, followed by the completion of a pharmacy technician training program, which may result in a certificate or associate's degree.
  • Certification: Obtaining national certification through organizations like the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) is often necessary.
  • State Licensure/Registration: Most states require pharmacy technicians to be licensed or registered, involving background checks and specific state exams.
  • Subspecialties: Explore diverse areas within pharmacy technology, such as sterile compounding, nuclear pharmacy, or informatics, to enhance your expertise.
  • Board Certification: Achieve certification to demonstrate competency and professionalism, which can improve job prospects and earning potential.
  • Continuing Education: Participate in ongoing education to maintain certification and stay updated on the latest pharmacy practices and regulations.
  • Skills: Develop essential skills like accuracy, attention to detail, mathematical proficiency, and communication to effectively perform pharmacy technician duties.
  • Work Environment: Be prepared for a fast-paced work environment that may require standing for long periods and managing multiple tasks efficiently.
  • Compensation: Pharmacy technicians earn competitive salaries, with potential for higher earnings based on experience, certification, and location.
  • Job Market: The job market for pharmacy technicians is projected to grow, driven by factors like the aging population and increased prescription usage.
  • Personal Qualities: Cultivate qualities such as reliability, integrity, and a strong work ethic to excel in a pharmacy setting.

Table of Contents

  1. How can you become a pharmacy technician for 2025?
  2. What does a pharmacy technician do?
  3. What are the educational requirements for becoming a pharmacy technician?
  4. What skills are required for pharmacy technicians?
  5. What is the certification and licensing process for pharmacy technicians?
  6. What ethical and legal guidelines should you observe as a pharmacy technician?
  7. How much can you earn as a pharmacy technician?
  8. How is technology transforming pharmacy technician roles?
  9. How can online training bolster a pharmacy technician’s career advancement?
  10. How can ongoing professional development secure your long-term success?
  11. What is the job market like for pharmacy technicians?
  12. What subspecialties and career paths are available for pharmacy technicians?
  13. Is the ROI of pharmacy technician education competitive?
  14. What challenges should you consider as a pharmacy technician?
  15. How do pharmacy technicians support community health initiatives?
  16. Can pharmacy technicians transition into leadership or administration roles?
  17. Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Pharmacy Technician

How can you become a pharmacy technician for 2025?

Becoming a pharmacy technician involves a combination of education, training, and certification. The process ensures that individuals are qualified to assist pharmacists in dispensing medications and providing patient care.

  • Complete a High School Diploma or GED: This is the basic educational requirement for most pharmacy technician positions.
  • Enroll in a Pharmacy Technician Training Program (Optional but recommended): Many employers and certification boards prefer or require formal training.
  • Gain Practical Experience: This can be through internships, externships, or on-the-job training.
  • Obtain Certification: Passing a national certification exam like the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or National Healthcareer Association (NHA) is often required.
  • Apply for State Licensure or Registration (If Required): Some states mandate licensure or registration to practice as a pharmacy technician.
  • Maintain Certification and Licensure: This typically involves continuing education and renewal fees.

Following these steps provides a clear path to becoming a qualified pharmacy technician.

What does a pharmacy technician do?

Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in supporting pharmacists and ensuring efficient pharmacy operations. Their responsibilities range from dispensing medications to managing inventory and interacting with patients.

  • Dispensing Medications: Accurately filling prescriptions under the supervision of a pharmacist.
  • Managing Inventory: Ordering, stocking, and organizing medications and supplies.
  • Preparing Sterile Compounded Medications: Preparing IV solutions and other sterile products.
  • Data Entry: Inputting patient information and prescription details into computer systems.
  • Patient Interaction: Assisting patients with questions, processing payments, and providing information.
  • Insurance Processing: Handling insurance claims and resolving billing issues.
  • Maintaining Records: Keeping accurate records of prescriptions and patient information.
  • Operating Pharmacy Equipment: Using automated dispensing machines and other pharmacy technology.

Their work ensures the smooth and safe operation of the pharmacy.

According to Zippia's 2024 data, the pharmacy technician workforce is predominantly female, with 75.1% of all pharmacy technicians being women. The average age of a pharmacy technician is 38 years old. In terms of ethnicity, the most common demographic is White, representing 60.2% of the workforce, followed by Hispanic or Latino at 14.5%, Asian at 10.1%, and Black or African American at 8.6%. These figures, shown below,  illustrate a workforce that is largely female and demonstrates a notable level of ethnic diversity.

What are some Pharmacy Technician demographic data?

What are the educational requirements for becoming a pharmacy technician?

The educational requirements for pharmacy technicians vary, but they generally involve a combination of high school education and specialized training. Formal training programs provide essential knowledge and skills.

  • High School Diploma or GED: A basic requirement for entry into most pharmacy technician programs and positions.
  • Pharmacy Technician Training Programs:
    • Core Courses: Pharmacy law and ethics, medical terminology, pharmaceutical calculations, and medication safety.
    • Major Courses: Pharmacology, dosage calculations, sterile compounding, and pharmacy operations.
    • Electives: Advanced pharmacy software, specialized compounding, or specific disease state management.
    • Other Relevant Education Requirements: Some programs require background checks, drug screenings, and immunization records.

Completing a recognized training program significantly enhances job prospects and certification eligibility.

Some consider switching careers to nursing after becoming pharmacy technicians, and online nursing programs for non nurses have become popular choices.

What skills are required for pharmacy technicians?

Pharmacy technicians need a diverse set of skills to perform their duties effectively. These skills encompass technical proficiency, interpersonal abilities, and attention to detail.

  • Accuracy and Attention to Detail: Ensuring prescriptions are filled correctly and patient information is accurate.
  • Mathematical Skills: Performing dosage calculations and measurements.
  • Computer Literacy: Using pharmacy software and electronic health records.
  • Communication Skills: Effectively interacting with patients, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals.
  • Organizational Skills: Managing inventory and maintaining accurate records.
  • Problem-Solving Skills: Addressing issues related to prescriptions, inventory, or patient inquiries.
  • Customer Service Skills: Providing courteous and efficient service to patients.
  • Knowledge of Medical Terminology: Understanding pharmaceutical and medical terms.
  • Knowledge of Medical Codes: Medical codes for diseases, devices, procedures, and other related terminology; some of the cheapest medical coding certification online programs include this in their curricula.
  • Understanding of Pharmacy Law and Ethics: Adhering to legal and ethical standards.
  • Sterile Compounding Techniques (If Applicable): Preparing sterile medications in a controlled environment.
  • Inventory Management: Ordering, stocking, and organizing medications and supplies.
  • Ability to Work Under Pressure: Handling multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
  • Teamwork: Collaborating with pharmacists and other pharmacy staff.
  • Time Management: Prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines.

These skills are essential for providing safe and efficient pharmacy services.

What is the certification and licensing process for pharmacy technicians?

Certification and licensing ensure that pharmacy technicians meet national and state standards. This process validates their competency and professionalism.

  • National Certification
  • State Licensure or Registration
    • Meeting specific state requirements, which may include background checks and fees.
    • Following state regulations for practice.

Adhering to certification and licensing standards reinforces professional credibility.

Additional Certifications to Enhance Your Marketability

In addition to the standard certifications required for pharmacy technicians, professionals may also consider earning specialized certifications that can further differentiate them in the healthcare industry. For example, medical coding certification comparison CBCS vs CPC offers distinct paths for those looking to specialize in medical billing and coding. CBCS (Certified Billing and Coding Specialist) and CPC (Certified Professional Coder) are certifications that can enhance your qualifications in medical coding and billing, helping you to stand out and open doors to higher-paying roles in healthcare.

Location Matters

Choosing which state to work in is quite important. As a general guide, here are some stats on states with the highest concentration of jobs for Pharmacy Technicians. Kentucky has the highest concentration of pharmacy technician jobs among the states listed, with an employment figure of 10,160. Following Kentucky, Tennessee has a substantial concentration of jobs at 12,350, while Florida demonstrates the highest employment numbers at 37,980. Alabama reports 8,340 jobs, and West Virginia shows the lowest concentration at 3,530. Therefore, while Florida has the highest number, Kentucky and Tennessee show the highest concentration of these jobs relative to their population size, as shown in the graph below.

What ethical and legal guidelines should you observe as a pharmacy technician?

Pharmacy technicians must adhere to strict ethical and legal guidelines to ensure patient safety and maintain professional integrity. These guidelines govern their conduct and responsibilities.

  • Patient Confidentiality (HIPAA): Protecting patient information and maintaining privacy.
  • Accuracy in Dispensing Medications: Ensuring prescriptions are filled correctly to prevent errors.
  • Adherence to Pharmacy Laws and Regulations: Following federal and state laws related to pharmacy practice.
  • Professional Conduct: Maintaining a professional demeanor and ethical standards.
  • Reporting Errors and Concerns: Reporting any medication errors or safety concerns to the pharmacist.
  • Avoiding Conflicts of Interest: Ensuring decisions are made in the best interest of the patient.
  • Maintaining Professional Boundaries: Avoiding inappropriate relationships with patients.

Observing these guidelines ensures ethical and legal compliance. For those interested in related areas such as law, there are several affordable paralegal certificate programs you can look into.

How much can you earn as a pharmacy technician?

Pharmacy technician salaries vary based on experience, location, and certification. However, they generally provide a stable income with opportunities for growth. They do not, however, compare to top paying careers exercise science degree, which can lead to higher-paying roles in physical therapy, sports medicine, and other healthcare specialties.

If you're looking to accelerate your career growth, online master's degree programs you can complete in 6 months could provide an excellent pathway. These programs allow you to gain advanced skills quickly, opening doors to higher-paying opportunities in healthcare and beyond.

The average salaries for pharmacy technicians vary significantly based on their role and location. According to Salary.com and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the "Pharmacy Technician Supervisor" position commands the highest average salary at $68,276, while "Pharmacy Technician I" earns the lowest at $36,486. Among states, California reports the highest average salary for pharmacy technicians at $55,710, considerably exceeding the salaries in Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois, which range from approximately $41,620 to $43,760. These figures are shown in the graph below. Overall, career advancement and geographic location strongly influence a pharmacy technician's earning potential.

Factors such as certification, experience, and location influence earning potential. If you want a higher position further down the line, consider the cheapest online healthcare management degree programs that can fast-track your career towards management positions.

How is technology transforming pharmacy technician roles?

Pharmacy technicians are increasingly leveraging advanced technologies to enhance workflow efficiency, accuracy, and patient safety. Automation tools, integrated inventory management systems, and electronic health record platforms are reshaping daily responsibilities. Additionally, the rise of telepharmacy and digital communication channels has expanded remote service opportunities and streamlined patient interactions. Cross-training in digital tools—including areas like medical coding certification salary—can further boost a technician’s versatility and career prospects by aligning them with evolving healthcare demands.

How can online training bolster a pharmacy technician’s career advancement?

Online training platforms provide pharmacy technicians with flexible opportunities to refine their technical proficiency, adapt to emerging industry standards, and maintain certification credentials. Modern e-learning courses emphasize practical applications in digital health records, automated dispensing systems, and updated safety protocols, ensuring that practitioners remain competitive. Moreover, exploring related healthcare education options, such as ultrasound tech programs online, can offer insights into innovative instructional formats and technology integration transferable to pharmacy practice.

How can ongoing professional development secure your long-term success?

In a rapidly evolving healthcare environment, pharmacy technicians can significantly benefit from pursuing targeted professional development opportunities that align with emerging industry needs. Focused continuing education not only enhances technical skills but also ensures adherence to the latest regulatory and technological standards. Investing in advanced training—in areas such as digital health management and automated systems—can open pathways for career advancement and foster long-term job security. Additionally, exploring specialized programs, including accredited medical billing and coding schools online, equips technicians with versatile competencies that respond to industry disruptions and improve overall professional agility.

What is the job market like for pharmacy technicians?

The job market for pharmacy technicians is generally positive, with projected growth and stable employment opportunities. The demand is influenced by factors such as the aging population and increased prescription usage.

  • Industry Growth
    • The BLS projects a 7% growth in employment for pharmacy technicians from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
  • Employment
    • Opportunities exist in various settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities.
  • Salaries
    • Salaries vary by location and experience, with higher wages in metropolitan areas and for certified technicians.
    • You can also pursue a terminal degree, for example, in psychology with the cheapest online PhD psychology programs offered by reputable universities for higher salaries.
  • Industry Trends
    • Increased use of automation and technology in pharmacies.
    • Growing demand for specialized pharmacy services, such as sterile compounding and medication therapy management.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2024, the median pay for pharmacy technicians in 2023 was $40,300 per year, which translates to $19.37 per hour. The total number of pharmacy technician jobs in 2023 was 463,900. The job outlook for pharmacy technicians from 2023 to 2033 shows a growth rate of 7%, which is considered faster than the average for all occupations, resulting in an expected employment change of 33,300 new jobs. These statistics, shown in the figure below, indicate a stable and growing field for pharmacy technicians.

What are some stats on Pharmacy Technician jobs?

The pharmacy technician profession offers promising career prospects in various fields and institutions.

What subspecialties and career paths are available for pharmacy technicians?

Pharmacy technicians can pursue various subspecialties and career paths to advance their careers and specialize in specific areas of pharmacy practice.

  • Certified Compounded Sterile Preparation Technician (CSPT): Specializing in preparing sterile medications.
  • Nuclear Pharmacy Technician: Working with radioactive medications in a specialized pharmacy setting.
  • Informatics Pharmacy Technician: Managing pharmacy information systems and technology.
  • Home Infusion Pharmacy Technician: Providing medications and services to patients at home.
  • Retail Pharmacy Technician: Working in community pharmacies and providing direct patient services.
  • Hospital Pharmacy Technician: Assisting in hospital pharmacies and managing medication distribution.
  • Long-Term Care Pharmacy Technician: Providing pharmacy services to residents in long-term care facilities.
  • Managed Care Pharmacy Technician: Working in managed care organizations and managing pharmacy benefits.
  • Military Pharmacy Technician: Serving in military pharmacies and providing healthcare services.
  • Veterinary Pharmacy Technician: specializing in animal medications.
  • Pharmacy Technician Educator: Teaching pharmacy technician programs.
  • Medication Reconciliation Technician: ensuring patient medication lists are accurate.
  • Inventory Control Specialist: managing medication inventory.
  • Insurance and Billing Specialist: handling insurance and billing procedures.

These subspecialties offer diverse opportunities for career growth and specialization. As of December 31, 2024, the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential dominates, with 301,381 active holders. In contrast, the Certified Compounded Sterile Preparation Technician (CSPT) credential has the fewest active holders, with 1,691. The Advanced Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT-Adv) credential falls in between, with 2,105 active holders. Thus, the standard CPhT certification remains significantly more prevalent than specialized or advanced certifications, as shown in the figure below.

What is the distribution of active pharmacy technicians?

An alternative pathway to further your career is by obtaining graduate degrees in other healthcare fields; addiction counseling degree programs are a common choice. 

Is the ROI of pharmacy technician education competitive?

Evaluating the return on investment for pharmacy technician education requires a balanced analysis of initial training costs, certification fees, and long-term salary growth. This section encourages professionals to compare the upfront expenses with the anticipated career stability and progressive earnings. Such an assessment helps in making a data-driven decision, especially when juxtaposed against alternative career paths—like pursuing a cheap online sports management degree—that may offer different financial and job growth trajectories.

What challenges should you consider as a pharmacy technician?

Pharmacy technicians face several challenges in their daily work, including managing high workloads, handling difficult patients, and ensuring accuracy in a fast-paced environment.

  • High Workload and Stress: Managing multiple tasks and prescriptions under time constraints.
  • Dealing with Difficult Patients: Handling patient complaints and inquiries.
  • Maintaining Accuracy: Ensuring prescriptions are filled correctly to prevent errors.
  • Exposure to Hazardous Materials: Handling medications and chemicals that may pose health risks.
  • Standing for Long Periods: Spending extended periods on their feet.
  • Keeping Up with Technology: Adapting to new pharmacy software and equipment.
  • Dealing with Insurance Issues: Resolving billing and insurance problems.
  • Continuing Education Requirements: Maintaining certification and licensure through ongoing education.
  • Shift Work and Irregular Hours: Working evenings, weekends, and holidays.

These challenges are also common in other healthcare professions that offer potential for better earnings. For instance, dental hygiene can be a career path worth considering. Dental hygienists are trained to clean teeth, examine patients for oral diseases, provide preventive care, and educate patients on proper oral hygiene. They also work closely with dentists to assist with procedures and ensure patients' oral health needs are met.

So, how long does a dental hygienist program take? Typically, dental hygienist programs take two to three years to complete, depending on the educational institution and whether the student is pursuing a certificate, associate's degree, or bachelor's degree in dental hygiene. Dental hygienists can expect competitive salaries, with an average annual income of around $94,260 in 2024.

Here’s What Graduates Say About Their Pharmacy Technician Careers

My journey as a pharmacy technician has been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to directly impact patient health while continuously learning and growing. Knowing I play a vital role in medication safety and patient care brings me immense satisfaction, and the steady career growth has been a pleasant surprise. I'm so glad I chose this path. Elara

The fast paced environment of a hospital pharmacy keeps me engaged and challenged every day, and the teamwork is fantastic. I love that I get to utilize my skills in sterile compounding and contribute to critical patient treatments. The stability and benefits have also allowed me to build a secure future. Jasper

Working in a community pharmacy has given me the opportunity to connect with so many people in my neighborhood and build meaningful relationships. Assisting patients with their medications and seeing the positive impact on their lives is truly fulfilling. The flexibility of my schedule has allowed me to balance work with my personal life. Corvus

How do pharmacy technicians support community health initiatives?

Pharmacy technicians often serve as accessible healthcare professionals within their communities. They play a critical role in promoting medication adherence, educating patients on drug safety, and assisting in vaccination efforts. Additionally, their integration in community outreach programs enhances preventive care measures and aids in minimizing medication-related errors. Enhanced training through programs such as online public health nursing programs equips these professionals with the skills necessary to address broader public health challenges while fostering a proactive approach to community wellness.

Can pharmacy technicians transition into leadership or administration roles?

Pharmacy technicians accumulate operational insights and clinical expertise that can serve as a solid foundation for advancing into management or administrative settings. By developing competencies in workflow optimization, team coordination, and strategic planning, experienced technicians can pursue roles that focus on improving service delivery and operational efficiency. Such progression often involves targeted leadership training or coursework in management principles, enabling professionals to bridge clinical execution with broader organizational responsibilities. For those seeking advancement beyond traditional clinical roles, exploring healthcare administration jobs that pay well may provide a promising pathway.

Key Findings

  • Median Pay (2023): Pharmacy technicians earned a median annual salary of $40,300, or $19.37 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2024.
  • Total Jobs (2023): There were 463,900 pharmacy technician jobs in 2023, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
  • Job Outlook (2023-2033): The field is projected to grow by 7%, adding 33,300 new jobs.
  • Demographics: 75.1% of pharmacy technicians are women, according to Zippia's 2024 data. The average age of a pharmacy technician is 38 years old, according to Zippia's 2024 data.
  • Ethnic Demographics: 60.2% of pharmacy technicians are White, 14.5% are Hispanic or Latino, 10.1% are Asian, and 8.6% are Black or African American.
  • State Job Numbers: While Florida reports the highest total number of pharmacy technician jobs at 37,980, Kentucky and Tennessee exhibit the highest concentration of these jobs relative to their population size, with 10,160 and 12,350 jobs respectively, while Alabama reports 8,340 jobs, and West Virginia shows the lowest concentration at 3,530.
  • Average Salaries: Pharmacy Technician Supervisors earn the highest average salary at $68,276 and Pharmacy Technician I positions earn the lowest average salary at $36,486.
  • State Average Salary: California has the highest state average salary for pharmacy technicians at $55,710, and Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois average from $41,620 to $43,760.
  • Credential Holders: As of December 31, 2024, the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential dominates with 301,381 active holders, while the Certified Compounded Sterile Preparation Technician (CSPT) credential has the fewest with 1,691, and the Advanced Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT-Adv) credential falls in between with 2,105, indicating the standard CPhT certification remains significantly more prevalent.

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Pharmacy Technician

What are some myths and misconceptions about being a pharmacy technician?

Many misconceptions exist about the role of a pharmacy technician, often underestimating the complexity and importance of their work.

  • Myth no 1: Pharmacy technicians just count pills.
  • Reality: Pharmacy technicians perform a wide range of tasks, including preparing sterile compounds, managing inventory, and interacting with patients.
  • Myth no 2: No specialized training is required.
  • Reality: Formal training programs and certifications are often required to ensure competency and patient safety.
  • Myth no 3: It's a low-stress, easy job.
  • Reality: Pharmacy technicians work in fast-paced environments and must handle multiple tasks with accuracy, leading to potential stress.
  • Myth no 4: There's no room for career advancement.
  • Reality: Technicians can specialize in areas like sterile compounding or nuclear pharmacy, and some may pursue roles in management or education.
  • Myth no 5: It's only about working in retail pharmacies.
  • Reality: Technicians work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
  • Myth no 6: Anyone can do it without any knowledge of medications.
  • Reality: A strong understanding of pharmacology, medical terminology, and dosage calculations is essential.
  • Myth no 7: Patient interaction is minimal.
  • Reality: Technicians often interact with patients, answering questions, processing payments, and providing instructions.
  • Myth no 8: It's a dead-end job with low pay.
  • Reality: While starting salaries may vary, experience and certification can lead to higher earnings, and the job market is projected to grow.
  • Myth no 9: Certification is optional and not important.
  • Reality: Certification is often required by employers and state boards, and it demonstrates competency and professionalism.
  • Myth no 10: Technology replaces the need for pharmacy technicians.
  • Reality: While technology assists in many pharmacy tasks, human oversight and expertise are still crucial for accuracy and patient safety.

What continuing education opportunities can I pursue as a pharmacy technician?

Continuing education is vital for pharmacy technicians to stay current with advancements in pharmacy practice and maintain certification.

  • PTCB or NHA Recertification Programs: Completing required continuing education hours for certification renewal.
  • Specialized Compounding Courses: Learning advanced techniques for sterile and non-sterile compounding.
  • Pharmacology Updates: Staying informed about new medications and drug interactions.
  • Medication Safety Training: Enhancing knowledge of safe medication practices and error prevention.
  • Healthcare Technology Courses: Learning to use new pharmacy software and automated dispensing systems.
  • Customer Service and Communication Workshops: Improving patient interaction skills.
  • Pharmacy Law and Ethics Seminars: Staying updated on legal and ethical requirements.
  • Disease State Management Programs: Focusing on specific disease areas like diabetes or cardiovascular disease.
  • Inventory Management Training: Learning efficient inventory control and management techniques.
  • Immunization Training: Becoming certified to administer vaccines (where allowed by state regulations).
  • Leadership and Management Courses: Preparing for potential roles in pharmacy management.
  • Medical Terminology and Anatomy Refresher Courses: Maintaining a strong foundation in medical language.
  • Online Webinars and Conferences: Participating in virtual learning opportunities.
  • Professional Association Membership: Accessing continuing education resources through organizations like the American Association of Pharmacy Technicians (AAPT).
  • Vendor Training: Learning to operate specific pharmacy equipment.

What resources can I consult to learn more about becoming a pharmacy technician?

Several resources can provide valuable information and guidance for those interested in becoming pharmacy technicians.

  • Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB): Provides information on certification requirements and resources.
  • National Healthcareer Association (NHA): Offers certification programs and study materials.
  • U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): Provides information on job outlook, salaries, and industry trends.
  • American Association of Pharmacy Technicians (AAPT): Offers professional development and networking opportunities.
  • State Boards of Pharmacy: Provide state-specific licensing and registration requirements.
  • Local Community Colleges and Technical Schools: Offer pharmacy technician training programs.
  • Professional Pharmacy Journals and Publications: Provide up-to-date information on pharmacy practices.
  • Online Pharmacy Technician Forums and Communities: Provide peer support and information sharing.
  • Healthcare Career Websites: Provide job listings and career advice.
  • Books on Pharmacy Technician Training: Provides comprehensive study materials.
  • Hospital and Retail Pharmacy Websites: Provides information on pharmacy operations and career opportunities.
  • National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP): Provides information on pharmacy law and regulations.
  • Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Resources: Provides guidelines on patient privacy.
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides information on medication safety and public health.
  • Drug Information Resources: Provides medication information and drug interactions.

References:

  • Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. (2024). Credentials by the numbers. Pharmacy Technician Certification Board.
  • Salary.com. (2025, January 1). Certified Pharmacy Technician Salary in the United States. Salary.com
  • Salary.com. (2025, February 16). Pharmacy Technician Lead CMOP IL (Key Personnel). Salary.com.
  • Salary.com. (2025, January 1). Senior Pharmacy Technician Salary in the United States. Salary.com.
  • Salary.com. (2025, March 1). Pharmacy Technician Supervisor Salary in the United States.  Salary.com.
  • U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 3). Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023: 29-2052 Pharmacy Technicians. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
  • U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 17). Pharmacy Technicians. Occupational Outlook Handbook. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
  • Zippia. (2024, November 8). Pharmacist Technician demographics and statistics in the US. Zippia.





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