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How To Become A Pharmacy Technician In California

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

  1. Age and Education: Be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.
  2. Certification: Obtain PTCB certification.
  3. Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check, including fingerprinting.
  4. Registration: Register with the California State Board of Pharmacy, pay a $105 fee, and submit a notarized application with a passport photo.
  5. Continuing Education: Pay a biennial fee of $130 (no state-mandated CE).

The California Board of Pharmacy oversees the licensing of pharmacy technicians in California. Technicians must complete a required training program and obtain certification. Once approved, they must wear a tag identifying their role in the pharmacy.

To prepare for the PTCB exam and obtain a pharmacy tech license, candidates must register with the California Board of Pharmacy, pay the application fee, and submit the necessary documents.

Due to high competition, candidates are encouraged to apply promptly to meet the growing demand in this profession.

Number of Pharmacy Technicians

  • Total: 36,000+

Minimum Age Requirement

  • Candidates must be at least 18 years old.

Education Requirements

  • A high school diploma or GED is required.
  • Candidates must have a valid Social Security Number (SSN).

Certification Requirements

  • Yes, PTCB certification is required to practice in California.

Background Checks

  • Candidates must undergo a thorough criminal background check, including fingerprint evaluation.

Registration and Licensing

  • Yes, registration with the California State Board of Pharmacy is required.
  • Mandatory application fee: $105.
  • Candidates must submit a notarized application, including a passport photo.
  • PTCB certification must be notarized and submitted with the application.

Continuing Education Requirements

  • Pharmacy technicians must pay a biennial fee of $130.
  • The state does not mandate continuous education, but the PTCB requires certification maintenance.

Technician Representation on Board

  • No, Pharmacy Technicians are not represented on the California State Board of Pharmacy.

Average Salary

  • $22.07/hr

Notes

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

Job Outlook and Opportunities for Pharmacy Technicians in California

Growing Demand The need for pharmacy technicians in California is increasing due to expanding healthcare services and an aging population.

Employment Settings Pharmacy technicians can find jobs in:

  • Retail pharmacies
  • Hospitals and clinics
  • Long-term care facilities
  • Specialty pharmacies
  • Mail-order pharmacy services

Career Advancement Technicians can advance by obtaining additional certifications, specializing in oncology, taking on supervisory roles, or furthering their education to become pharmacists.

Salary Expectations The average hourly wage for pharmacy technicians in California is approximately $22.07, and with experience and certifications, earnings can be higher.

Professional Resources

  • California State Board of Pharmacy: Provides licensing, regulations, and continuing education information.
  • National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA): Offers professional development and networking resources.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

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

Is certification required to work as a pharmacy technician in California?

  • Yes, PTCB certification is required.

How do I renew my pharmacy technician license?

  • Renewal requires completing 20 hours of continuing education every two years, including 2 hours in pharmacy law, and paying the renewal fee.

What is the job outlook for pharmacy technicians in California?

  • The demand is growing, providing numerous job opportunities.

Where can I work as a pharmacy technician in California?

  • Opportunities exist in retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, specialty pharmacies, and mail-order pharmacy services.

Can I advance my career as a pharmacy technician?

  • Yes, by obtaining additional certifications, specializing, taking on supervisory roles, or furthering education to become a pharmacist.

What is the average salary for pharmacy technicians in California?

  • The average salary is $22.07 per hour, with potential for higher earnings based on experience and additional certifications.
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