Step By Step Guide To Become A Pharmacy Technician In North Dakota 2025
1. Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements
To begin your journey, ensure you meet the fundamental requirements to become a pharmacy technician in North Dakota. You must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or equivalent. North Dakota does not have citizenship or residency requirements for pharmacy technicians.
2. Complete an Approved Pharmacy Technician Program
Enroll in a pharmacy technician training program approved by the North Dakota Board of Pharmacy. Programs can be found at community colleges, vocational schools, or online. Courses generally cover subjects such as pharmacology, pharmacy law, and ethical practice. Ensure the program meets the accreditation standards necessary for state certification. For a list of approved programs, refer to the North Dakota Board of Pharmacy website (ND Board of Pharmacy).
3. Pass a National Certification Exam
After completing the approved training program, pass one of the two national certification exams recognized by North Dakota:
- Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
- Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
Both exams test knowledge and skills relevant to pharmacy practice. Registration and scheduling are online processes through their respective boards. Exam fees in 2025 are approximately $129 for PTCE and $117 for ExCPT.
4. Apply for State Licensure
After becoming nationally certified, apply for a pharmacy technician registration with the North Dakota Board of Pharmacy. Complete the application available on their website and pay the required non-refundable fee, which is $35 as of 2025. Include proof of your national certification and any additional documentation requested by the board.
5. Complete the Required On-the-job Training
To fulfill North Dakota’s specific training requirements, complete a minimum number of on-the-job training hours under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. Maintain detailed records of your training, which must be submitted as part of your application for registration. Generally, North Dakota requires at least 500 hours of practical experience.
6. Undergo a Criminal Background Check
Submit to a criminal background check as part of your application for registration. This process includes fingerprinting and the payment of a processing fee, which is typically around $40. The results can impact your eligibility for licensure depending on the findings.
7. Maintain and Renew Certification and Licensure
Renew your pharmacy technician license annually in North Dakota. Understand that maintaining certification through either the PTCB or NHA requires ongoing education. This includes completing at least 20 hours of continuing education in pharmacy-related subjects every two years, with at least one hour dedicated to pharmacy law. Ensure all requirements are met before the renewal deadline each year to avoid penalties or lapses in your license.
8. Pursue Career Development Opportunities
Once registered, consider career development opportunities such as specialization certifications or advanced training programs. These can increase job prospects and salary potential. Stay informed about changes in state regulations and certifications that could impact your career as a pharmacy technician in North Dakota.