Steps to become a pharmacy technician in New Mexico
- Meet Age and Education Requirements. Be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or GED.
- Register with the Board. Apply for registration with the New Mexico Board of Pharmacy and pay the fee.
- Complete Training. Complete 220 hours of state-approved pharmacy technician training.
- Pass Certification Exam. Pass the PTCB or ExCPT certification exam within one year.
- Maintain Certification and Registration. Renew your certification every two years and ensure your state registration stays active.
State Requirements
- Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 years old.
- Education Requirement: Must have a high school diploma or GED.
- Background Check: Must pass a criminal background check and fingerprinting.
- Training: Complete 220 hours of state-approved pharmacy technician training.
- Certification: Pass either the PTCB or ExCPT certification exam within one year of registration.
- Registration: Register with the New Mexico Board of Pharmacy before starting work.
- Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years with a $30 fee.
Education and Training
In New Mexico, pharmacy technician training is not mandated by the state, but it is highly recommended. Training can be completed through an accredited program or as part of on-the-job experience under a licensed pharmacist. Most programs include essential subjects like pharmacy law, pharmaceutical calculations, medical terminology, and the preparation and dispensing of medications.
Even though formal training isn’t required by the state, pursuing it is a good idea. It equips you with foundational knowledge, increases job prospects, and ensures readiness for the PTCB or ExCPT certification exams, which are required for full certification.
Certification
In New Mexico, certification is mandatory for pharmacy technicians. You must pass either the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) offered by the National Healthcareer Association. Certification must be completed within one year of starting work as a pharmacy technician.
Becoming certified demonstrates a strong understanding of essential pharmacy skills, enhances job prospects, and is often required by employers. Certification also shows commitment to professional standards and helps ensure patient safety.
Licensing/Registration
In New Mexico, licensing and registration are required for pharmacy technicians. You must register with the New Mexico Board of Pharmacy before beginning any technician duties. This process involves submitting a completed application, paying a $30 fee, and ensuring compliance with state training and certification requirements.
Licenses must be renewed biennially. If a registration expires, you cannot work as a pharmacy technician until it is reinstated. Technicians must complete any required training and pay late fees to restore expired registrations. Importantly, New Mexico does not offer reciprocity for pharmacy technicians licensed in other states.
Continuing Education
In New Mexico, the state does not mandate continuing education (CE) for pharmacy technicians. However, if you are certified through the PTCB or ExCPT, CE is required to maintain your national certification.
Both certification programs require 20 hours of CE every two years, which must include at least 1 hour in pharmacy law. Some CE providers also offer specific courses on patient safety, which may be necessary depending on your certification body.
Staying current with CE helps ensure you are up to date on industry standards and patient safety practices, making it essential for career growth.
Resources
New Mexico Board of Pharmacy
www.rld.state.nm.us/boards/Pharmacy.aspx
Office: 5200 Oakland N.E., Suite A. Albuquerque, NM 87113
Telephone: 505-222-9830 or 800-565-9102
Fax: 505-222-9845
Professional Association for New Mexico pharmacy techs:
New Mexico Pharmacists Association
www.nm-pharmacy.com