Step By Step Guide To Become A Pharmacy Technician In Indiana 2025
Step 1: Understand the Role of a Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy technicians in Indiana assist licensed pharmacists with dispensing medications and managing pharmacy tasks. They perform duties such as organizing inventory, maintaining records, and providing customer service. Understanding this foundational role within a pharmacy setting will guide your educational and career decisions moving forward.
Step 2: Research Indiana State Requirements
Pharmacy technician regulations and licensure in Indiana are overseen by the Indiana Board of Pharmacy. Verify your eligibility by reviewing the current legal requirements directly on their official website. Indiana requires pharmacy technicians to register with the Board and work under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist.
Step 3: Complete a High School Education or Equivalent
Indiana requires pharmacy technician candidates to have at least a high school diploma or GED. Completing your high school education provides the necessary foundation in mathematics, science, and communication skills critical for this profession.
Step 4: Enroll in a Pharmacy Technician Training Program
While not mandatory in Indiana, completing a pharmacy technician training program can greatly enhance your qualifications. Look for programs accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). Coursework typically covers topics such as pharmacy law, pharmacology, and medical terminology. Local community colleges and vocational schools often offer these programs.
Step 5: Apply for a Pharmacy Technician License through the Indiana Board of Pharmacy
Submit your application to become a Pharmacy Technician in Training, which allows for practical experience while preparing for full certification. The application fee is approximately $25. Visit the Indiana Board of Pharmacy's official page for the most current application details and requirements.
Step 6: Gain Practical Experience
Most Indiana pharmacies require technicians in training to accumulate hands-on experience under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. This could be through internships or on-the-job training, and is essential for developing practical skills and understanding daily operations.
Step 7: Pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or ExCPT Exam
Indiana encourages certification for pharmacy technicians, which enhances employment prospects. Candidates may choose between the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Each exam covers various aspects of pharmacy practice and costs approximately $129 for PTCE and $117 for ExCPT.
Step 8: Fulfill Continuing Education Requirements
After obtaining certification, Indiana requires pharmacy technicians to renew their licenses biennially and complete continuing education credits. Technicians must complete 20 hours of continuing education during each two-year certification cycle, with specific hours dedicated to pharmacy law and patient safety. Details about acceptable education providers and course topics can be checked on the relevant certifying body's website or through educational institutions offering pharmacy technician programs.