Steps to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Arizona
- Meet Basic Requirements: Ensure you are at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.
- Obtain a Pharmacy Technician Trainee License (Optional): If you’re new to the field and wish to gain experience while you train, apply for a Pharmacy Technician Trainee License through the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy. This will allow you to work under supervision while you complete the next steps.
- Complete a Board-Approved Training Program: Enroll in and complete a pharmacy technician training program approved by the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy. This program will equip you with essential knowledge and hands-on experience in pharmacy operations and patient care.
- Apply for a Fingerprint Clearance Card: Submit an application for an Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card through the Department of Public Safety. This is required for both the trainee and full technician licenses.
- Pass a Certification Exam: After completing your training, take and pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT).
- Apply for Pharmacy Technician Licensure: Submit your application to the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy, including proof of certification, proof of legal residency, and the $82 application fee. Be sure to include any necessary documentation such as your fingerprint clearance and government-issued ID.
State Requirements
- Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 years old.
- Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent is required.
- Training Program: Completion of an Arizona Board-approved pharmacy technician training program.
- Fingerprint Clearance Card: Obtain a valid Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card.
- Certification Exam: Pass one of the certification exams—either the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT).
- Application Fee: Pay a non-refundable application fee of $82 for a pharmacy technician license, or $25 for a technician trainee license.
- Proof of Legal Residency: Submit proof of U.S. residency or citizenship, along with a government-issued photo ID.
- Name Change Documentation: Provide documentation for any name changes, if applicable.
- Court and Disciplinary Documents: If relevant, submit any court orders or disciplinary action records.
- Application Submission: Complete the application process through the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy’s online portal.
Education and Training
To become a pharmacy technician in Arizona, completing a formal training program approved by the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy is essential.
These programs are typically offered by community colleges, vocational schools, and online institutions, covering foundational topics such as pharmacology, pharmacy law, medical terminology, and the practical skills needed to assist pharmacists effectively.
Training programs can vary in length, with some as short as six months, while others may take up to a year to complete.
In addition to classroom instruction, most programs include hands-on training through externships or laboratory sessions, which allow students to gain real-world experience in a pharmacy setting. Some programs also prepare students specifically for certification exams like the PTCE or ExCPT, which are required for licensure in Arizona.
Certification
In Arizona, aspiring pharmacy technicians must obtain national certification to qualify for state licensure. The two recognized certifications are the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) provided by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
To be eligible for these exams, candidates generally need to complete a state-approved pharmacy technician training program. Although specific exam content may vary slightly, both tests cover critical competencies required for pharmacy technicians.
The PTCE consists of 90 multiple-choice questions, while the ExCPT has 100. Candidates must pass one of these exams to apply for their Arizona pharmacy technician license.
Licensing and Registration
After passing a national certification exam, individuals can apply for licensure as a pharmacy technician with the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy. The application process involves submitting proof of certification, a completed application form, and paying a non-refundable licensing fee of $82.
Additionally, applicants must provide documentation such as proof of legal residency, a government-issued photo ID, and, if applicable, any court or disciplinary records.
Applicants are also required to submit an Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card, which can be obtained through the Arizona Department of Public Safety. This background check ensures the applicant meets the state’s standards for professional conduct and is eligible to work in a healthcare environment.
Once the application is approved, the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy issues a pharmacy technician license, which is valid for two years. Pharmacy technicians are required to renew their license before expiration by completing necessary continuing education requirements and paying a renewal fee. Maintaining active registration with the state is essential for legally practicing as a pharmacy technician in Arizona.
For those new to the field, Arizona offers a Pharmacy Technician Trainee license, which allows individuals to gain practical experience under supervision while they work toward full licensure.
Trainee License
Arizona offers a Pharmacy Technician Trainee License, which is specifically designed for individuals who are new to the profession and want to gain experience under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. This temporary license allows aspiring technicians to work in a pharmacy setting while completing the necessary training and certification requirements for full licensure.
To apply for a trainee license, candidates must submit an application to the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy along with a $25 non-refundable fee, proof of U.S. residency or citizenship, and a government-issued photo ID. Additionally, a Fingerprint Clearance Card is required for background verification.
The trainee license is valid for a limited time and is typically non-renewable, meaning that individuals are expected to complete their training and pass a certification exam before it expires.
This license is an excellent option for those who want to start working in the field quickly while continuing their education and preparation for the national certification exams. By gaining hands-on experience as a trainee, individuals can develop practical skills and confidence in a real-world setting, which can be highly beneficial when they transition to a fully licensed pharmacy technician role.
Continuing Education
n Arizona, licensed pharmacy technicians are required to complete 20 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years to maintain their certification and licensure. These hours must include at least one hour dedicated to pharmacy law, ensuring that technicians stay up-to-date on legal requirements and any changes in state and federal regulations.
The remaining hours can cover a variety of topics relevant to pharmacy practice, including patient safety, medication therapy management, and advances in pharmacology.
Continuing education can be obtained through various accredited providers, including professional associations, pharmacy technician schools, and online platforms. The Arizona State Board of Pharmacy accepts CE credits approved by organizations such as the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) and the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP).
Upon completing the required CE hours, technicians must submit proof of completion during the license renewal process. This requirement not only ensures compliance with state regulations but also supports the ongoing professional development of pharmacy technicians, helping them to provide high-quality care and maintain industry standards in their practice.
Resources
Arizona State Board of Pharmacy
Website: www.azpharmacy.gov
Office Address: 1700 W. Washington Street, Suite 250, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Telephone No: 602-771-2727
Fax: 602-771-2749
Professional Association for Arizona Pharmacy Technicians:
Arizona Pharmacy Alliance
www.azpharmacy.org
Arizona Association of Pharmacy Technicians (ALAPT)