Steps to Become a Pharmacy Technician in New Hampshire
- Meet Age Requirement. Ensure you are at least 16 years old.
- Register with NH Board of Pharmacy. Submit your registration application and pass a background check.
- Complete Training (Optional). Although not mandated, consider completing a formal training program to improve skills.
- Obtain Certification (Optional). Pass the PTCE or ExCPT for enhanced career opportunities.
- Maintain Registration. Renew your registration annually with the Board of Pharmacy.
- Complete Continuing Education (if certified). Complete 20 hours of CE every two years if certified through PTCB or NHA.
State Requirements
- Age Requirement: Must be at least 16 years old.
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent recommended.
- Registration: Mandatory registration with the New Hampshire Board of Pharmacy.
- Supervision: Work under direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist.
- Certification: Not required but encouraged for career advancement.
- Background Check: Must pass a criminal background check.
- Continuing Education: 15 hours of continuing education every two years for certified pharmacy technicians.
- Renewal: Registration must be renewed annually.
Education and Training
In New Hampshire, formal training is not strictly mandated by the state for pharmacy technicians, but many employers prefer or require it for hiring. Completing a training program can give candidates a competitive edge, as it equips them with the necessary skills for the job.
Typical pharmacy technician training programs cover a wide range of subjects including pharmacology, pharmacy law, dosage calculations, and inventory management. Programs may also include hands-on experience through externships in retail or hospital settings.
Enrolling in formal training is highly beneficial because it prepares you for certification exams and helps build confidence in handling medications and working in a fast-paced environment. It also enhances career prospects, as certified technicians are often given more responsibilities and better pay.
Certification
In New Hampshire, certification is not mandatory to work as a pharmacy technician, but it is highly recommended. Obtaining certification shows a higher level of competence and commitment to the field, often leading to better job opportunities and pay.
The most common certifications are the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and the ExCPT from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). These certifications demonstrate proficiency in key areas like medication safety, federal laws, and pharmacy operations.
Licensing/Registration
In New Hampshire, registration with the state’s Board of Pharmacy is mandatory for all pharmacy technicians. To register, applicants must meet age requirements (16+), submit a completed application, and pass a background check. Licensure or formal licensing is not required for technicians, as registration suffices.
Registration must be renewed annually, and technicians are responsible for ensuring their registration stays current. If a registration expires, it can typically be reinstated by submitting a renewal application along with any applicable fees.
New Hampshire does not have reciprocity agreements for pharmacy technicians, so technicians moving from another state must complete the NH-specific registration process.
Continuing Education
In New Hampshire, continuing education (CE) is not required by the state for pharmacy technicians to maintain their registration. However, if a technician is certified through organizations like the PTCB or NHA, they must complete CE to maintain their certification.
For PTCB certification, technicians need to complete 20 hours of CE every two years, including at least one hour in pharmacy law and one hour in patient safety. CE helps technicians stay updated on industry changes, ensuring they provide safe and effective care.
Resources
State of New Hampshire Board of Pharmacy
www.nh.gov/pharmacy
Office: 57 Regional Drive. Concord, NH 03301
Telephone: 603-271-2350 Fax: 603-271-2856
Professional Association for New Hampshire Pharm Techs:
New Hampshire Pharmacists Association
www.nhpharmacists.net