How To Become a Pharmacy Technician In West Virginia 2025

Comprehensive guide on how to become a pharmacy technician in West Virginia, including education requirements, licensing, certification, and career outlook.

By BestPharmacyTechTraining Editorial Team
Published January 15, 2025
3 min read
Updated January 17, 2025

Step By Step Guide To Become A Pharmacy Technician In West Virginia 2025

Understanding the Role of a Pharmacy Technician

Pharmacy technicians in West Virginia play a vital role in healthcare settings such as hospitals, retail pharmacies, and long-term care facilities. They assist pharmacists with medication dispensing, patient communication, and handling administrative tasks.

Step 1: Meet Basic Requirements

  1. Age and Education: Must be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
  2. Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check. This is essential as pharmacy technicians in West Virginia handle sensitive medical information and medications.

Step 2: Complete an Approved Pharmacy Technician Training Program

  1. Choose a Program: Select a program accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) or other board-approved programs. Training can be completed at community colleges or vocational schools.
  2. Duration: Programs typically last between six months to two years, culminating in a certificate or associate degree.
  3. Curriculum: Courses include pharmacology, pharmacy law and ethics, medication safety, and pharmacy operations.

Step 3: Acquire Hands-On Experience

  1. Externship Requirement: Most training programs include an externship component that provides real-world experience in a pharmacy setting.
  2. Site Selection: Work placements usually occur in local pharmacies where students gain practical experience under supervision.

Step 4: Obtain Certification

  1. Certification Exam: Although not mandated by West Virginia, becoming certified improves job prospects. Consider taking the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT).
  2. Eligibility: Meet the exam eligibility requirements which generally include completion of a training program and externship.
  3. Fees: The PTCE fee is $129, while the ExCPT fee is approximately $117.
  4. Validity: Certification is valid for two years, requiring continuing education for renewal.

Step 5: Register with the West Virginia Board of Pharmacy

  1. Application Process: Submit an application to the West Virginia Board of Pharmacy. Complete the Pharmacy Technician Registration Form available on their official website.
  2. Fees: The application fee is $25 as of 2025. Ensure all fees are paid before submission.
  3. Documents Required: Provide proof of education, training certificates, and all supporting documents as stipulated by the board.

Step 6: Maintain Your Registration and Certification

  1. Renewal Requirements: Renew your registration annually before June 30. The renewal fee is $25.
  2. Continuing Education: Complete at least 10 hours of continuing education (CE) annually, including a minimum of one hour in pharmacy law.

Step 7: Stay Informed on State Regulations

  1. Regulatory Changes: Regularly check the West Virginia Board of Pharmacy website for any updates to state-specific regulations or changes to the practice of pharmacy technicians.
  2. Additional Training: Engage in any state-required additional training, such as immunization certification, if offered and applicable.

By following these steps, you can successfully navigate the process of becoming a pharmacy technician in West Virginia aligned with state regulations. This path not only provides a rewarding career but also contributes significantly to the healthcare field.