How Long Does It Take to Become a Pharmacy Technician?
Quick Answer
6–12 months through a certificate or diploma program. On-the-job training programs take 3–6 months, while associate degree programs take about 2 years.
Typical Duration
Quick Answer
Becoming a pharmacy technician takes 6–12 months through the most common educational path: a certificate or diploma program. Some states allow on-the-job training that can take as little as 3–6 months, while an associate degree in pharmacy technology takes approximately 2 years.
Timeline by Program Type
| Program Type | Duration | Cost Range | Credential Earned |
|---|---|---|---|
| On-the-job training | 3–6 months | Free (employer-sponsored) | State registration only |
| Certificate/diploma program | 6–12 months | $1,000–$15,000 | Certificate |
| Community college program | 9–12 months | $3,000–$10,000 | Certificate or diploma |
| Associate degree (AS/AAS) | 2 years | $6,000–$25,000 | Associate degree |
| Online certificate program | 4–10 months | $500–$5,000 | Certificate |
Step-by-Step Timeline
Step 1: Meet Basic Requirements (Immediate)
- Be at least 18 years old (16 in some states)
- Hold a high school diploma or GED
- Pass a background check and drug screening
Step 2: Complete Education or Training (3–12 months)
The education requirement varies by state. Some states mandate completion of an accredited program, while others allow employers to train technicians directly.
Step 3: Obtain State Registration/Licensure (2–6 weeks)
Most states require pharmacy technicians to register with the state board of pharmacy. Processing times vary but typically take 2–6 weeks after submitting an application.
Step 4: Pass Certification Exam (1–2 months prep)
While not always required, national certification significantly improves job prospects and pay. The two primary certifications are:
| Certification | Organization | Exam Length | Pass Rate | Renewal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPhT (Certified Pharmacy Technician) | PTCB | 2 hours, 90 questions | ~70% | Every 2 years |
| ExCPT (Exam for Certification of Pharmacy Technicians) | NHA | 2 hours, 100 questions | ~74% | Every 2 years |
State Requirements Comparison
| State | Education Required | Certification Required | Registration Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | Accredited program or associate degree | Not required (but recommended) | Yes |
| Texas | Accredited program or on-the-job training | Yes (within 2 years) | Yes |
| New York | No formal education required | Not required | Yes |
| Florida | On-the-job training accepted | Not required | Yes |
| Illinois | Accredited program or on-the-job training | Not required | Yes |
| Pennsylvania | Accredited program recommended | Not required | Yes |
| Ohio | Accredited program or on-the-job training | Not required | Yes |
| Arizona | On-the-job training accepted | Not required | Yes (licensure) |
What You Learn in a Pharmacy Technician Program
Accredited programs cover pharmaceutical calculations, pharmacology, pharmacy law and ethics, medication dispensing procedures, sterile and non-sterile compounding, and inventory management. Programs accredited by ASHP (American Society of Health-System Pharmacists) are generally preferred by employers.
Career Outlook and Pay
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6% job growth for pharmacy technicians through 2032. Median annual pay is approximately $37,790, with certified technicians and those in hospital settings earning above the median. Specialization in areas like compounding, chemotherapy, or nuclear pharmacy can further increase earning potential.
Fastest Path to Employment
The quickest route is to find an employer offering on-the-job training, which is common at large retail pharmacy chains like CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart. These programs typically train new hires over 3–6 months while they work, and many cover the cost of national certification exams.