Step By Step Guide To Become A Pharmacy Technician In Arizona 2025
Step 1: Meet Basic Educational Requirements
To become a pharmacy technician in Arizona, start by obtaining a high school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate. This is a prerequisite for further steps in the certification process.
Step 2: Enroll in a Pharmacy Technician Training Program
Enroll in an Arizona State Board-approved Pharmacy Technician training program. The program should provide comprehensive training in areas such as pharmacology, medication dosage and calculation, and essential pharmacy operations. Programs can be found at community colleges, vocational schools, and some pharmacies. Completion typically takes between 6 months and 2 years depending on the program intensity.
Step 3: Register with the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy
Prior to employment, you must register with the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy as a Pharmacy Technician Trainee. Visit the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy website to find the application form. As of 2025, the fee for initial registration is $60. Submit any required documentation, including proof of enrollment in a training program. This registration is valid for a maximum of three years, giving you time to complete your training and certification.
Step 4: Obtain National Certification
While Arizona does not mandate national certification for employment, it significantly enhances job prospects. There are two main certification exams:
- Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). As of 2025, this exam costs $129.
- Examination for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). This exam fee is roughly $117.
Both exams cover pharmacology, maintaining medication and inventory control systems, and aspects of federal requirements.
Step 5: Apply for State Licensure
After securing your national certification, apply for a pharmacy technician license through the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy. The application fee is $82. Ensure all necessary documentation is included, such as proof of national certification and completion of a board-approved training program.
Step 6: Complete Background Check
Arizona law stipulates that pharmacy technicians must undergo a criminal background check. Upon application, the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy will provide instructions for fingerprint submission. This process helps ensure patient safety and trust in pharmacy professionals.
Step 7: Pursue Employment in a Pharmacy Setting
With your license in hand, pursue roles at pharmacies across Arizona. Employment settings may include hospitals, retail pharmacies, or mail-order pharmacies. Additionally, consider pharmacy job fairs and networking opportunities as ways to secure employment.
Step 8: Maintain Certification and Licensure
To maintain your practice eligibility, renew your Arizona pharmacy technician license biennially, requiring proof of continuing education. As of 2025, the renewal fee is $82. Additionally, national certifications require renewal: PTCB certification demands 20 hours of continuing education every two years, while ExCPT has similar requirements.
Step 9: Continue Education and Professional Development
Stay updated with advancements in pharmaceutical sciences and pharmacy law by continuing education. This ensures compliance with Arizona state regulations and advances your career as opportunities arise.
For the most updated information regarding regulations and requirements, always refer to the official Arizona State Board of Pharmacy website.