How To Become A Pharmacy Technician In Alabama

To become a pharmacy technician in Alabama, follow these steps:

Age and Education: Be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.
Background Check: Complete a criminal background check ($40 fee).
Registration: Register with the Alabama State Board of Pharmacy, pay a $60 fee and submit a notarized application.
Training: Complete a State Board-approved course within 6 months of registration and submit evidence within 10 days.
Continuing Education: Complete 6 hours of CE every two years, including 2 live hours.

Number of Pharmacy Technicians

Total: 4,524

Minimum Age Requirement

Candidates must be at least 18 years old.

Education Requirements

A high school diploma or GED is required.

Certification Requirements

PTCB certification is not required to practice in Alabama.

Background Checks

Candidates must undergo a thorough criminal background check, which costs $40.

Registration and Licensing

Yes, registration with the Alabama State Board of Pharmacy is required.
Candidates must pay a mandatory application fee of $60 and submit a notarized application.
Completion of a State Board-approved course within 6 months of registration is required.
Evidence of course completion must be submitted within 10 days.

Continuing Education Requirements

6 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years, on odd-numbered years.
2 of the 6 hours must be live.
Renewal fee: $60 every two years on odd-numbered years.

Technician Representation on Board

No, Pharmacy Technicians do not have representation on the Alabama State Board of Pharmacy.

Average Salary

$15.56/hr

Useful Links and Resources

Notes

PTCB Free Practice Test ensures all information related to pharmacy tech licensing in Alabama is accurate and up-to-date. However, candidates should verify with the Alabama State Board of Pharmacy for the latest regulations and requirements.

Job Outlook and Opportunities for Pharmacy Technicians in Alabama

Growing Demand

The demand for pharmacy technicians in Alabama is expected to grow due to an aging population and increased healthcare needs. Technicians are vital in assisting pharmacists and managing medication distribution.

Employment Settings

Pharmacy technicians can find opportunities in various settings including:

Retail pharmacies (e.g., CVS, Walgreens)
Hospitals and healthcare systems
Long-term care facilities
Specialty pharmacies
Mail-order pharmacy services

Career Advancement

Pharmacy technicians in Alabama have opportunities to advance their careers by:

Obtaining additional certifications (e.g., IV certification)
Pursuing specializations in areas like oncology or pediatrics
Transitioning into supervisory or training roles
Furthering education to become a pharmacist

Salary Expectations

The average salary for pharmacy technicians in Alabama ranges from $30,000 to $40,000 annually, with the potential for higher earnings with experience and additional certifications.

Professional Resources

Alabama Pharmacy Association (APA): Provides networking, education, and career resources.
National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA): Offers continuing education and professional development opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the basic requirements to become a pharmacy technician in Alabama?

You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and pass a criminal background check.

Do I need to be certified to work as a pharmacy technician in Alabama?

Yes, certification from a recognized body like PTCB or ExCPT is required.

How do I renew my pharmacy technician license?

Renewal requires completing 10 hours of continuing education annually, with at least one hour in pharmacy law.

What is the job outlook for pharmacy technicians in Alabama?

The demand for pharmacy technicians is growing due to increasing healthcare needs and an aging population.

Where can I work as a pharmacy technician?

Pharmacy technicians can work in retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, specialty pharmacies, and mail-order pharmacies.

Can I advance my career as a pharmacy technician?

Yes, additional certifications and specializations, supervisory roles, and further education can lead to career advancement.

What is the average salary for pharmacy technicians in Alabama?

The average salary ranges from $30,000 to $40,000 annually, with potential for higher earnings with experience and additional certifications.