Steps to become a pharmacy technician in Utah
- Meet Age and Education Requirements. Must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.
- Enroll in a Training Program. Register for a state-approved pharmacy technician training program.
- Apply for a Trainee License. Submit a Pharmacy Technician Trainee application, including a Criminal History Report if 18 or older.
- Pass Certification Exam. Complete and pass the PTCB or ExCPT certification exam.
- Apply for State Licensure. Submit an application to the Utah State Board of Pharmacy with necessary documentation.
- Maintain License. Complete 20 hours of continuing education and renew your license every two years.
State Requirements
- Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 years old.
- Education Requirement: High school diploma or GED.
- Training Requirement: Completion of a recognized pharmacy technician training program.
- Certification Requirement: Pass the PTCB or ExCPT certification exam.
- Criminal Background Check: Submit fingerprints and a criminal background check.
- License Application: Apply with the Utah State Board of Pharmacy, including required documents.
- Continuing Education: Complete 20 hours of CE every two years, including 1 hour in pharmacy law
Education and Training
In Utah, training is required to become a licensed pharmacy technician. Prospective technicians must complete a recognized pharmacy technician training program, which can include classroom education or on-the-job training. Typical subjects covered in these programs include pharmacy law, medication safety, dosage calculations, and pharmacy operations.
Applicants seeking a Pharmacy Technician Trainee License in Utah must first be enrolled in a training program. If the applicant is 18 years or older, they are required to submit a Criminal History Report from the Utah Bureau of Criminal History. This report must be submitted as an original hard copy and is a key part of the application process.Completing formal training is highly beneficial, as it not only prepares individuals for the certification exams (PTCB or ExCPT) but also equips them with the necessary knowledge and skills to perform daily tasks efficiently, such as handling prescriptions and ensuring patient safety.
Training also emphasizes the importance of accuracy and attention to detail, both of which are crucial in preventing medication errors. Furthermore, trained technicians are often more competitive in the job market, as employers prefer candidates who are well-prepared for the complex responsibilities of a pharmacy technician.
Certification
In Utah, certification is required to become a licensed pharmacy technician. Applicants must pass one of two nationally recognized certification exams: the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) provided by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
Certification ensures that pharmacy technicians have met industry standards for knowledge and competency. Beyond meeting state requirements, obtaining certification increases job opportunities, boosts credibility, and demonstrates a commitment to maintaining high professional standards. Certification must be renewed every two years, usually requiring continuing education.
Licensing/Registration
In Utah, to obtain a Pharmacy Technician License, applicants must first complete their training and certification (PTCB or ExCPT). The next step is submitting a licensing application to the Utah State Board of Pharmacy, which includes:
- Proof of certification
- A Criminal History Report with fingerprinting
- Payment of the required fees
Once licensed, renewal is required every two years, along with completing 20 hours of continuing education. For technicians moving from other states, reciprocity allows licensure by endorsement, provided they meet Utah’s qualifications. Expired licenses can be reinstated through a formal process, which may involve additional fees.
Continuing Education
In Utah, continuing education (CE) is required to maintain an active pharmacy technician license. Pharmacy technicians must complete 20 hours of CE every two years. Of these hours, 1 hour must cover pharmacy law, ensuring that technicians stay informed about legal and regulatory changes.Both the PTCB and ExCPT certifications also require continuing education for renewal. The PTCB mandates 20 hours of CE, including 1 hour in patient safety, while the ExCPT requires similar CE hours with a focus on professional development and safety standards. This helps maintain competency and ensures best practices in patient care.
Resources
Utah Board of Pharmacy
www.dopl.utah.gov
Office: Utah State Board of Pharmacy, 160 East 300 South. Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Phone: (801) 530-6628
Professional Association for Utah pharmacy technicians:
Utah Pharmacists Association
www.upha.com
The Utah Society of Health System Pharmacists
www.ushp.org