Step By Step Guide To Become A Pharmacy Technician In South Dakota 2025
To become a pharmacy technician in South Dakota, follow these steps that align with state regulations and requirements.
Step 1: Understand the Role of a Pharmacy Technician
A pharmacy technician in South Dakota assists pharmacists by preparing medications, managing inventory, and serving customers. In South Dakota, specific regulations guide what tasks a pharmacy technician can perform. You can review the South Dakota Board of Pharmacy regulations on their official website.
Step 2: Complete a High School Diploma or GED
A minimum education requirement is a high school diploma or GED. This foundational step ensures you possess basic skills required for further training and job responsibilities.
Step 3: Enroll in a Pharmacy Technician Training Program
While South Dakota does not require formal training for pharmacy technicians, enrolling in an accredited program enhances your employment opportunities and prepares you for certification exams. Programs are available at community colleges and vocational schools, such as Southeast Technical College in Sioux Falls.
Step 4: Obtain National Certification
Although not mandatory in South Dakota, obtaining national certification from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) is highly recommended. Certification requires passing an exam and demonstrates your competence as a pharmacy technician. The cost for the PTCB exam is $129 as of 2025. More detailed information can be found on the PTCB website.
Step 5: Register with the South Dakota State Board of Pharmacy
Pharmacy technicians must register with the South Dakota Board of Pharmacy before starting employment. Complete the online application form provided on the Board’s website and pay the applicable fee of $25 as of 2025. The registration confirms that you will work under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist.
Step 6: Undergo a Background Check
Submit to a criminal background check as part of the registration process. This step ensures that you meet the standards necessary for handling prescription medications. Instructions for completing the background check are available on the South Dakota Board of Pharmacy website.
Step 7: Secure Employment
With registration complete, seek employment as a pharmacy technician. Consider hospitals, retail pharmacies, and long-term care facilities in cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City. Experience gained on the job is crucial for advancement.
Step 8: Maintain Your Registration and Certification
To maintain your registration, renew it annually through the South Dakota Board of Pharmacy by verifying your continuing employment and paying the annual fee of $25. If you obtained national certification, adhere to the recertification requirements set every two years by PTCB, including 20 hours of continuing education.
Step 9: Stay Informed on State Regulations and Requirements
Stay updated on South Dakota's pharmacy laws and continuing education requirements by visiting South Dakota Board of Pharmacy’s website. Changes in regulations can impact the scope of practice and employment conditions.
By following these specific steps, you will be well-prepared to begin a career as a pharmacy technician in South Dakota.