How to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Montana

Steps to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Montana

1. Meet Age and Education Requirements. Be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
2. Complete Training. Enroll in on-the-job or formal pharmacy technician training.
3. Pass Certification Exam. Obtain certification by passing either the PTCE or ExCPT exam.
4. Submit Application. Apply for registration with the Montana Board of Pharmacy and pay the required fee.
5. Complete Background Check. Undergo a criminal background check, including fingerprinting.
6. Maintain Registration and CE. Renew annually by June 30 and complete 10 hours of continuing education.

State Requirements

• Minimum Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
• Training: On-the-job or formal training programs.
• Certification: Pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the ExCPT.
• License Application: Submit the Montana Board of Pharmacy application with required fees.
• Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check.
• Registration: Register with the Montana Board of Pharmacy.
• Continuing Education: Complete 10 hours of CE every year to maintain certification.

Education and Training

Montana does not require formal training for pharmacy technicians, but completing a training program is highly recommended. Training can be done on-the-job or through formal educational courses. Many programs offer a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience, covering essential topics like pharmacology, medical terminology, prescription processing, and pharmacy law.

While not required, formal training gives you a solid foundation in technical skills and prepares you for the certification exam. It can improve job prospects and help you advance in your career by ensuring you’re well-prepared for the tasks involved. Additionally, it can help reduce errors, boost confidence, and provide essential knowledge to work safely under a pharmacist’s supervision.

Overall, training enhances your understanding of medication safety and pharmacy operations, making it easier to transition into the workforce.

Certification

Montana does not mandate certification for pharmacy technicians, but obtaining one is strongly encouraged. Certification demonstrates competence and commitment, making you a more competitive candidate. The two most common certifications are:

1. Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
2. Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

Certification also ensures compliance with national standards, enhances job prospects, and is often a requirement for advancing into higher positions or more specialized pharmacy roles.

Licensing/Registration

In Montana, registration with the Montana Board of Pharmacy is mandatory for all pharmacy technicians. Before starting employment, technicians must submit an application, pay the required fee, and provide proof of certification or enrollment in a training program.

Licenses must be renewed annually by June 30. To maintain good standing, certified technicians must complete 10 hours of continuing education each year. For those with expired registrations, reinstatement is possible but may involve additional fees and documentation. 

Reciprocity from other states may also be available, depending on individual circumstances.

Continuing Education

In Montana, pharmacy technicians are required to complete 10 hours of continuing education (CE) annually to maintain their registration. These hours must be earned before the license renewal deadline on June 30 each year. 

For certified technicians, CE is also crucial for maintaining certifications like the PTCE or ExCPT, which require 20 hours of CE every two years, including one hour focused on pharmacy law.

CE activities typically include courses on medication safety, patient care, and pharmacy laws, ensuring that technicians stay updated with industry standards.

Resources

Montana Board of Pharmacy 
mt.gov
Office:             301 S. Park Ave., 4th Floor. Helena, MT 59620-0513
Mail:                PO Box 200513

Telephone:    406-841-2371 Fax: 406-841-2305

Professional Association for Montana pharmacy techs: 
Montana Pharmacy Association
www.rxmt.org