Pharmacy Technician Requirements: What You Need to Know to Become Successful

A pharmacy technician plays an important role in health care. Therefore, in order to be able to work competitively and efficiently, one has to undergo special education and thorough training.

A person who wants to have proficient knowledge in the field related to the duties performed by a pharmacy technician may enroll in schools that offer pharmacy technician courses. You have the option to take and complete a course in less than a year, or you can attend a 2-year course and earn Associate’s Degree.

In addition, some schools also offer pharmacy technician training programs that give the students laboratory and hands-on pharmacy experience. After completing a technical school education and an on the job training, a student may now take the certification exam.

The requirements of becoming a pharmacy technician actually vary from state to state. Although some states do not require formal training or certification, most employers prefer candidates who have completed a formal training and have taken certification exams, since those who earned certification are believed to be more capable and they have the necessary skills to become an efficient pharmacy technician.

To be eligible to take a certification exam, a candidate must be at least 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED), and must be clear of drug convictions. Passing a certification exam earns you a professional title of Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT). And in order to keep your certification active and valid, it is necessary to complete a continuing education every two years.

With the increasing competition in the job market nowadays, being one step ahead can make you stand out among all those who aspire to become a pharmacy technician. Completing a training program and passing a certification exam will definitely open doors to bigger opportunities in your career as a pharmacy technician.