How to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Maryland

Steps To Become a Pharmacy Technician in Maryland

1. Meet Educational Requirements: Be at least 17 years old and have a high school diploma, GED, or be enrolled in a high school program.
2. Complete Training Program: Finish a Board-approved pharmacy technician training program with 160 hours of practical experience.
3. Pass Exam: Take and pass a Board-approved exam or provide proof of national certification (e.g., PTCB or ExCPT).
4. Submit Application: Submit your registration application along with a $45 fee and required documents.
5. Complete Criminal Background Check: Submit a State of Maryland Criminal History Records Check.
6. Maintain Continuing Education: Complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years, including one hour in pharmacy law.

State Requirements

• High School Education: Must be currently enrolled in high school, possess a high school diploma, or have a GED equivalent.
• Training Program: Completion of a Board-approved pharmacy technician training program that includes a minimum of 160 hours of work experience.
• Examination: Must pass a Board-approved technician examination.
• Certification (Optional): Nationally certified applicants must submit proof of certification (e.g., PTCB or ExCPT).
• Criminal History Records Check: Submit a State of Maryland Criminal History Record Report through CJIS (Criminal Justice Information System).
• Application Fee: A non-refundable $45 fee must be paid during the application process.
• Registration Validity: The registration application remains valid for one year from the submission date. Renewal is required to continue practicing.
• Working without Registration: It is illegal to work as a pharmacy technician in Maryland without an active registration, and violations may result in disciplinary action.

Education and Training

In Maryland, completion of a Board-approved pharmacy technician training program is required for non-nationally certified applicants. These programs must include at least 160 hours of practical work experience under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. This training ensures that candidates gain essential hands-on experience in tasks like medication preparation, inventory management, and customer service.

Most training programs cover a range of subjects, including pharmacy law, medication safety, pharmacology, and dosage calculations. They often combine classroom instruction with real-world experiences in clinical or retail pharmacy settings. The combination of theory and practice helps trainees develop the knowledge and skills necessary for their role, preparing them to work effectively alongside pharmacists.

While Maryland mandates this training for registration, pursuing it also opens up more career opportunities. A well-structured program ensures that pharmacy technicians are confident in handling prescriptions, managing drug interactions, and providing customer care, which improves employability and lays the groundwork for further career advancement.

Certification

Certification is not mandated to work as a pharmacy technician in Maryland, but it is highly encouraged. Non-certified individuals must complete a state-approved training program and pass a Board-approved exam. However, obtaining national certification through recognized bodies like the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) is optional but can significantly boost career prospects.

The two most common certifications are the PTCB Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) and the NHA’s ExCPT (Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians). Both certifications require candidates to pass an exam that covers topics such as medication safety, federal regulations, and order processing. Additionally, certification must be maintained through continuing education and periodic renewals, ensuring that technicians stay current with industry standards.

Although not required by the state, certification can be highly advantageous. It provides validation of knowledge and skills, which can make you more competitive in the job market. Certified technicians often have access to better job opportunities, higher wages, and are more likely to be trusted with expanded responsibilities in both retail and hospital settings. For those looking to advance their careers or pursue specialized roles, certification serves as a strong foundation.

Licensing/Registration

In Maryland, registration as a pharmacy technician is required by the Maryland Board of Pharmacy. To register, applicants must complete a Board-approved training program and pass an approved exam if they are not nationally certified. Applicants must also submit a completed registration application along with a non-refundable $45 fee and undergo a criminal background check through the State’s Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS). Proof of training completion or national certification is mandatory, depending on the pathway chosen.

Once registered, pharmacy technicians must renew their registration every two years. During this period, continuing education is necessary to stay updated with industry changes, particularly in medication safety and pharmacy law. Failing to renew on time results in the need for reinstatement, which may involve additional fees or penalties.

For those moving to Maryland from another state, reciprocity is an option if they have similar credentials in their current state. Applicants must provide proof of their out-of-state registration, a letter of good standing, and, if applicable, work experience documentation. Maryland also allows a streamlined process for nationally certified technicians who can prove their certification status and training.

Continuing Education

In Maryland, continuing education (CE) is a mandatory requirement for registered pharmacy technicians. Technicians are required to complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain their registration with the Maryland Board of Pharmacy. These CE hours must include at least one hour related to pharmacy law. Continuing education helps ensure that technicians remain up-to-date with the latest practices, laws, and safety standards in the pharmacy field.

For technicians who are nationally certified through organizations like the PTCB (Pharmacy Technician Certification Board) or the NHA (National Healthcareer Association), continuing education is also required to maintain their certification. For instance, the PTCB requires 20 hours of continuing education every two years, with at least one hour dedicated to patient safety and another to pharmacy law. The NHA’s ExCPT certification has similar requirements, helping technicians stay current with the evolving standards in medication safety and technology.

Continuing education can be completed through various channels, including online courses, in-person seminars, or through employer-sponsored programs. Topics often cover pharmacy law, medication safety, pharmacology updates, and best practices in handling prescriptions. These programs are accredited by recognized bodies such as the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), ensuring the quality of the training.

Resources

Maryland Board of Pharmacy 
www.dhmh.state.md.us/pharmacyboard/html/technicians.html
Office:             201 West Preston Street. Baltimore, MD 21201
Telephone:    410-767-6500 or toll-free 877-463-3464 Fax: 410-358-6207

Professional Association for Maryland pharmacy techs: 
Maryland Pharmacists Association
marylandpharmacist.org