Steps to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Kentucky
- Verify Eligibility: Ensure you meet the age requirement of at least 16 years old.
- Complete Registration: Apply to the Kentucky Board of Pharmacy and pay the required fee.
- Optional Training: Consider enrolling in a formal training program for foundational skills.
- Optional Certification: Pursue certification (PTCB or NHA) to boost your career prospects.
- Work Requirements: Display your registration certificate at your job.
- Renew Your Registration: Renew annually to keep your status active.
- Continuing Education: Complete CE if certified to maintain credentials.
State Requirements
- State Requirements:
- Age: Must be at least 16 years old.
- Application Process: Submit an application to the Kentucky Board of Pharmacy.
- Fee: A $25 registration fee is required.
- Background Check: Pass a criminal background check if applicable.
- Certificate Display: Registration must be visible at the workplace.
- Annual Renewal: Renew your registration each year.
- Continuing Education: Not required unless certified.
- Certification: Optional but recommended for career growth.
Education and Training
To become a pharmacy technician in Kentucky, while formal education isn’t mandated by the state, many employers prefer candidates with at least a high school diploma or GED. Basic skills in math, communication, and science (especially chemistry or biology) can provide a strong foundation for this career path.
Completing a pharmacy technician training program is highly recommended. These programs, available at community colleges, vocational schools, and online, cover key areas such as pharmacy law, drug interactions, and medication safety. Some technicians may also opt for on-the-job training, where they gain hands-on experience under the supervision of licensed pharmacists.
Certification
Although certification is voluntary in Kentucky, it is strongly encouraged for pharmacy technicians seeking career advancement and improved job prospects. Certification demonstrates competence in key areas like pharmacology, medication safety, and pharmacy law, which are critical for providing high-quality patient care.
There are two main certification options:
- Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB): This national certification is widely recognized and requires passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
- National Healthcareer Association (NHA): Offers the ExCPT exam for certification, which is another recognized pathway for pharmacy technicians.
Certified technicians must maintain their credentials by completing continuing education credits every two years. Obtaining certification can lead to higher pay and broader job opportunities in retail, hospital, and other specialized pharmacy environments.
Licensing/Registration
In Kentucky, pharmacy technicians are required to register with the Kentucky Board of Pharmacy. The process involves filling out an application and paying a $25 non-refundable fee. Registration must be renewed annually to remain in good standing.
If a technician’s registration expires, they must apply for renewal and pay any additional late fees, or risk working without valid credentials. Kentucky does not offer formal reciprocity for technicians registered in other states; however, technicians moving to Kentucky must still complete the state’s registration process.
The registration must be displayed at the technician’s place of work, ensuring compliance with state regulations.
Continuing Education
In Kentucky, continuing education (CE) is not required for non-certified pharmacy technicians. However, those who obtain national certification through organizations like the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or National Healthcareer Association (NHA) must complete 20 hours of CE every two years to maintain their credentials. These hours must include at least one hour focused on pharmacy law.
Resources
Kentucky Board of Pharmacy
pharmacy.ky.gov
Office: State Office Building Annex, Ste 300, 125 Holmes Street. Frankfort, KY 40601
Telephone: 502-564-7910 Fax: 502-696-3806
Professional Association for Pharmacy Techs:
Kentucky Pharmacists Association
www.kphanet.org