Step By Step Guide To Become A Pharmacy Technician In Alabama 2025
Becoming a pharmacy technician in Alabama requires following a series of state-mandated steps. This guide will walk you through each step needed to meet Alabama's requirements.
Step 1: Meet Basic Eligibility Criteria
To begin your journey to becoming a pharmacy technician in Alabama, confirm that you meet the basic eligibility criteria:
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 17 years old.
- Education Requirement: You need a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
Reference the Alabama Board of Pharmacy for basic educational requirements here: Alabama Board of Pharmacy.
Step 2: Complete a State-Approved Pharmacy Technician Program
Enroll in a pharmacy technician training program approved by the Alabama Board of Pharmacy. These programs can be completed through community colleges, vocational schools, or online platforms.
- Certification Programs: Typically last for 6 to 12 months.
- Associate Degree Programs: Generally take about 2 years.
Verify your program's approval through the Alabama Board of Pharmacy's approved schooling list.
Step 3: Obtain National Certification
Although Alabama does not mandate national certification for all pharmacy technicians, obtaining this certification enhances job prospects:
- PTCB (Pharmacy Technician Certification Board) Exam: Costs $129. Eligibility requires completion of a recognized training program.
- ExCPT (Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians): Costs $117. Available through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
National certification must be renewed every two years by completing 20 continuing education credits.
Step 4: Apply For Pharmacy Technician Registration
Register with the Alabama Board of Pharmacy to legally work as a pharmacy technician:
- Application Form: Complete the application form available on the Alabama Board of Pharmacy website.
- Pay the Registration Fee: The fee is $60 as of 2025.
- Background Check: Submit to a criminal background check, required for all applicants.
Step 5: Complete On-the-Job Training
Your employer, usually a licensed pharmacist, will provide on-the-job training specific to the workplace. This training covers:
- Medication preparation
- Prescription labeling
- Inventory management
Step 6: Maintain and Renew Your Registration
Pharmacy technicians in Alabama must renew their registration annually:
- Renewal Deadline: December 31st of each year.
- Renewal Fee: $60 as of 2025.
- Continuing Education: Complete 3 hours of continuing education annually. One hour must be live coursework.
Always submit your renewal application and fee on time to avoid expiration of your pharmacy technician registration.
Each step ensures you comply with Alabama's requirements and positions you for success in your pharmacy technician career. For more official information, visit the Alabama Board of Pharmacy's homepage: Alabama Board of Pharmacy.