How to Become a Pharmacy Technician

Are you interested in healthcare but not sure where to start? Do you want a career where you can help people, work with a team, and play a critical role in the safe use of medications? If so, become a pharmacy technician and find the right path for you.

Pharmacy technicians are in high demand, and this career can be both rewarding on its own and a great stepping stone to other healthcare opportunities. Let’s explore what pharmacy technicians do, how to become one, and why this might be the perfect choice for you.

CEimpact Pharmacy Training Program / 6 hours / $99

What Does a Pharmacy Technician Do?

Pharmacy technicians are essential members of the healthcare team. They work alongside pharmacists to make sure patients receive their medications safely and on time. Daily responsibilities may include:

Filling and labeling prescriptions.
Talking with patients and answering basic questions.
Managing insurance claims and pharmacy records.
Preparing medications (including compounding in some settings).
Supporting pharmacists with patient care services.

It’s a role that combines science, organization, and people skills, all with the goal of improving patient health.

Steps to Become a Pharmacy Technician

1. Check Your State’s Requirements

Every state has different rules for pharmacy technicians. Some require formal certification, while others allow on-the-job training. Start by looking at your state’s Board of Pharmacy website to understand what’s required.

2. Enroll in a Training Program

Many pharmacy technicians complete training through:

Community colleges
Vocational/technical schools
Online certificate programs

These programs usually take less than a year and cover topics like pharmacy law, medication safety, and medical terminology.

3. Earn Your Certification

While not always required, becoming nationally certified makes you more competitive when applying for jobs. The two most common certifications are:

CPhT through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB)
ExCPT through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA)

When you become a pharmacy technician, your certification shows employers that you’re serious about your career and prepared to succeed.

4. Get Hands-On Experience

Pharmacy technician programs often include externships, where you’ll work in a pharmacy setting and learn directly from professionals. This real-world experience is one of the best ways to build confidence before entering the workforce.

5. Commit to Lifelong Learning

The pharmacy field is always evolving. Once you become a pharmacy technician, continuing education (CE) will keep you up to date on new medications, technologies, and regulations. Make sure to come to CEimpact for your CE.

Why Students Choose to Become a Pharmacy Technician

Become a pharmacy technician if you’re:

Looking for a quick start in healthcare: Many programs can be completed in under a year.
Interested in job security: Demand for technicians continues to grow nationwide.
Considering future healthcare careers: The role provides valuable exposure to pharmacy, medicine, and patient care.
Wanting flexibility: Technicians work in retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care, specialty pharmacies, and more.

Your Next Step

If you’re a student who wants to jump into healthcare, becoming a pharmacy technician can open the door to a fulfilling career. Whether you see yourself staying in this role or using it as a stepping stone to pharmacy school, nursing, or another healthcare profession, it’s a smart place to start.

At CEimpact, we’re here to support pharmacy professionals at every stage of their journey—with continuing education, resources, and career development opportunities. Your path starts now, and we’re excited to see where it leads.

Advance Training Opportunities for Pharmacy Technicians: There is not better way to advance your career and enhance your personal satisfaction than by earning an advanced course badge.