Steps to become a pharmacy technician in California
- Meet the Basic Requirements: Ensure you are at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or GED, and meet citizenship or residency requirements.
- Complete Education and Training: Enroll in a Board-approved pharmacy technician training program or obtain certification through the PTCB or ExCPT.
- Submit an Application: Apply to the California State Board of Pharmacy, including required documents, fingerprinting, and a $195 fee.
- Obtain Your License: After approval, you’ll receive your license, allowing you to work as a pharmacy technician in California.
- Maintain Certification and License: Complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years and renew your license to stay active in the profession.
State Requirements
- Minimum Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Training: Completion of a Board-approved training program or equivalent coursework.
- Certification: Certification from PTCB or ExCPT, or completion of specified training, such as an ASHP-accredited program.
- Background Check: Submit fingerprints and undergo a criminal background check.
- Application and Fees: Submit a completed application with a $195 fee to the California State Board of Pharmacy.
- Self-Query Report: Submit a National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) Self-Query Report.
- Live Scan: For California residents, a Live Scan fingerprint submission is required; out-of-state applicants must use fingerprint cards.
Education and Training
To become a pharmacy technician in California, candidates must have at least a high school diploma or an equivalent such as a GED. Many candidates further enhance their qualifications by completing a pharmacy technician training program. These programs, available at community colleges and vocational schools, typically cover essential topics like pharmacology, medication preparation, and inventory management.
Candidates have several options to meet California’s training requirements. They can complete a program accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) or earn an associate degree in pharmacy technology. Another pathway includes completing at least 240 hours of pharmacy-related coursework, focusing on both theoretical and practical skills needed for the role.
For those already holding national certification through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or ExCPT, this can substitute for the formal education requirements. California also recognizes military training in pharmacy-related fields as a valid qualification for training.
Certification
In California, aspiring pharmacy technicians must obtain certification from a recognized national body, either the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). The PTCB offers the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), while the NHA administers the ExCPT. Both exams assess knowledge and skills critical for pharmacy technicians, such as medication safety and pharmacy law.
Certification not only satisfies the state’s requirements but also enhances employability. Candidates for either exam should have completed relevant training and education. Upon passing, they earn the title Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT), which is valid for two years and requires continuing education to maintain.
California also accepts military pharmacy training in place of traditional certification, provided that the training aligns with state standards. This flexibility allows individuals from diverse backgrounds to fulfill the certification requirement and pursue a career as a pharmacy technician in California.
Licensing and Registration
To obtain a pharmacy technician license in California, candidates must apply through the California State Board of Pharmacy. The application involves several steps: submitting a completed application form, paying a $195 fee, and providing documentation that confirms education and certification.
Additionally, candidates must undergo Live Scan fingerprinting for a criminal background check. Out-of-state applicants may submit two fingerprint cards if they cannot complete Live Scan in California.
California does not have full reciprocity agreements with other states, so pharmacy technicians moving to California may need to meet additional state-specific requirements.
Licensed pharmacy technicians must renew their licenses every two years, which includes a continuing education requirement of 20 hours, with at least one hour in pharmacy law.
For expired licenses, California allows technicians to reinstate them by paying a renewal fee and completing any required continuing education. However, if the license has been expired for over three years, technicians may need to reapply and meet all current licensure requirements from scratch.
Upon receiving the license, pharmacy technicians are officially registered with the state and listed on the California State Board of Pharmacy’s registry. It’s crucial for technicians to maintain their national certification, as this ensures compliance with California regulations and the ability to renew their state licenses.
Continuing Education
To maintain an active pharmacy technician license in California, pharmacy technicians must complete 20 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years. This includes at least one hour dedicated to pharmacy law to stay updated on regulations and compliance. These CE hours can be earned through various sources, such as approved online courses, workshops, or conferences.
Accepted CE providers typically include the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) and courses offered by professional organizations like the California Pharmacists Association (CPhA). Technicians must keep records of their completed CE hours in case of audits, as the California State Board of Pharmacy may request verification at any time.
If a technician’s certification has lapsed, completing the required CE hours is essential before renewal. California emphasizes continuous professional development, ensuring that pharmacy technicians are up-to-date with industry standards and best practices.
Resources
The California State Board of Pharmacy Information
Office Address: 1625 N Market Blvd, N219. Sacramento, CA 95834
Telephone: 916-574-7900
Fax: 916-574-8618
Website: www.pharmacy.ca.gov