Steps to become a pharmacy technician in Hawaii
- Meet Basic Requirements: Ensure you are at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.
- Complete Training: Although not required, completing a pharmacy tech training program can improve job prospects.
- Consider Certification: Earn a certification like PTCB or ExCPT for better job opportunities, though it’s optional in Hawaii.
- Register with the Hawaii Board of Pharmacy: Submit an application, proof of education, and pay the required fee.
- Maintain Registration: Renew registration every two years to remain compliant.
State Requirements
- Minimum Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
- Education: High school diploma or GED required.
- Training: No formal training program required by the state, but on-the-job training is often provided.
- Certification: Passing a national exam (PTCB or ExCPT) is recommended but not mandatory.
- Registration: Must register with the Hawaii Board of Pharmacy.
- Background Check: Criminal background check required.
- Continuing Education: 20 hours every two years for certified technicians.
Education and Training
In Hawaii, formal training is not mandated by the state for pharmacy technicians, but completing a training program is highly recommended. Training programs often cover essential subjects such as pharmacy law, pharmaceutical calculations, medical terminology, and pharmacy operations. These programs typically last several months and can be taken online or in-person.
Training programs often include topics like pharmacology, inventory management, prescription processing, and drug safety.
While on-the-job training may be available, obtaining structured education can enhance job prospects, help you pass national certification exams (like the PTCB or ExCPT), and improve long-term career growth within the pharmacy field.
Certification
While certification is not required by Hawaii to work as a pharmacy technician, it offers numerous benefits. Certification demonstrates your knowledge in areas like pharmacology, pharmacy law, and medication safety, which are critical to ensuring safe and efficient pharmacy operations.
The two main certifications available are the PTCB (Pharmacy Technician Certification Board) and the ExCPT (Exam for Certification of Pharmacy Technicians). Both exams assess your ability to handle tasks such as prescription processing and drug calculations.
Becoming certified boosts your credentials, increases job opportunities, and often leads to higher pay. Many employers view certification as a mark of competence, which can make you a more competitive candidate in the job market.
Licensing/Registration
To register as a pharmacy technician in Hawaii, you need to complete an application form provided by the Hawaii Board of Pharmacy. You must submit proof of education (e.g., high school diploma or GED), and pay a non-refundable application fee.
After approval, you will be listed in the Hawaii Board of Pharmacy registry, allowing you to legally work as a technician.
Renewal is required every two years. If your registration expires, you may apply for reinstatement by paying additional fees and meeting any updated requirements.
Out-of-state pharmacy technicians must apply for registration in Hawaii by meeting the state’s specific requirements, including submitting an application and supporting documents such as proof of education and identity.
Continuing Education
Hawaii does not require Continuing Education (CE) for pharmacy technicians as part of its state registration process. However, if you are certified by organizations like the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or ExCPT, you must complete 20 hours of CE every two years to maintain your certification.
This includes 1 hour of pharmacy law. CE credits can be earned through online courses, seminars, or workshops, which help you stay updated on industry changes and ensure ongoing competency in pharmacy operations.
Resources
The Hawaii State Board of Pharmacy Information
Address: PO Box 3469. Honolulu, HI 96801
Phone: 808-586-2694
Fax: 808-586-2874
Website: http://www.hawaii.gov/dcca/pvl/boards/pharmacy
Are There Any Professional Associations?
The Hawaii Pharmacists Association