How to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Arkansas

Steps to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Arkansas

1. Meet Minimum Requirements: Be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.
2. Complete Training: Enroll in a state-approved pharmacy technician training program.
3. Register with the Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy: Submit an application, background check, and fee.
4. Certification (Optional): Obtain national certification through PTCB or ExCPT for better job prospects.
5. Maintain Continuing Education (If Certified): Complete 20 hours of continuing education every 2 years.
6. Renew Annually: Pharmacy technician registrations must be renewed yearly to remain active.

State Requirements

1. Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 years old.
2. Education: High school diploma or GED.
3. Training: Completion of a state-approved training program.
4. Certification: Certification through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or National Healthcareer Association (ExCPT) is recommended but not required by law.
5. Registration: Must register with the Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy.
6. Criminal Background Check: Submission of a background check is required.
7. Continuing Education: 20 hours of continuing education every 2 years, including 2 hours in pharmacy law.

Education and Training

In Arkansas, the Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy does not explicitly mandate formal education through an accredited institution for pharmacy technicians. However, most employers require completion of a state-approved training program. This training can be obtained through:

• Community colleges or vocational schools offering accredited certificate programs.
• On-the-job training at a licensed pharmacy under a pharmacist’s supervision.
• Online programs that meet state and employer standards.

Though certification is not mandated by the board, completing formal training enhances job prospects and prepares candidates for national certification exams.

A typical program includes:

• Pharmacology: Understanding drug classifications, uses, and side effects.
• Medical Terminology: Learning the language used in prescriptions and healthcare.
• Pharmacy Law and Ethics: Studying federal and state regulations.
• Medication Preparation and Compounding: Hands-on training in preparing medications.

Customer Service and Communication: Training in patient interaction and counseling.

Learn more: Pharmacy Technician Schools and Programs in Arkansas

Certification

Although certification is not mandatory by Arkansas law, it offers significant advantages for pharmacy technicians. Most employers in the state prefer or require certification due to its demonstration of competency and professionalism. The two main certifications are:

• Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB): Requires passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE)
• National Healthcareer Association (ExCPT): Offers the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT), which is also recognized nationally.

Certification opens up better job prospects, enhances credibility, and may result in higher pay. It is essential to check if your training program prepares you for these exams. Additionally, certified technicians are often given more responsibilities in advanced roles like compounding or sterile preparation.

Licensing/Registration

To legally work as a pharmacy technician in Arkansas, individuals must register with the Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy. The process includes:

• Filling out an application on the Board’s website.
• Submission of a criminal background check.
• Paying the registration fee (renewable annually).

Registration must be completed before beginning employment.

The registration process involves:

• Completing the online application on the Board’s website.
• Submitting a criminal background check.
• Paying the application fee (with annual renewal required).

Technicians must maintain an active registration throughout employment. If a registration expires, the technician cannot legally work until it is renewed. Arkansas does not have reciprocity agreements for pharmacy technicians, meaning individuals moving to the state must register with the Arkansas Board, regardless of prior certification or registration in other states.

Continuing Education

Pharmacy technicians in Arkansas must complete continuing education (CE) to maintain certification and stay current with industry standards. If certified through the PTCB or ExCPT, technicians must complete 20 hours of CE every two years, which should include:

• 2 hours of pharmacy law.
• CE credits can be obtained through in-person classes, online courses, or workshops accredited by recognized organizations, such as the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) or Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy.

This ongoing education ensures technicians remain knowledgeable about new medications, regulations, and best practices.

Resources

Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy 
Website:                      www.pharmacyboard.arkansas.gov
Office Address:          101 E. Capitol, Suite 218, Little Rock, AR 72201
Telephone Nos:           501-682-0190

Fax Nos:                     501-682-0195

Professional Association for Arkansas Pharm Techs: 
Arkansas Pharmacists Association
www.arpharmacists.org