How To Become A Pharmacy Technician In Colorado

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

Age and Education: Be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.
Certification: Pass the PTCB exam.
Background Check: Complete a criminal background check.
Registration: Apply to the Colorado State Board of Pharmacy, paying a $57 application fee.
Approval: Receive full or provisional approval from the State Board before practicing.
Continuing Education: Complete 20 hours of CE every two years, including 1 hour in pharmacy law and 1 hour in patient safety, and pay a $40 renewal fee.

Colorado has over 5,300 active Pharmacy Technicians, making competition for positions high. As of March 30, 2020, candidates must hold a PTCB certification before practicing. The Colorado State Board of Pharmacy oversees the licensing process, and candidates must apply to the Board and receive either full or provisional approval before they can begin work.

Basic Requirements

Age: Candidates must be at least 18 years old.
Education: A high school diploma or GED is required.
Background Check: A thorough criminal background check is mandatory.
Application Fee: Candidates must pay a $57.00 application fee.

Certification and Training

Certification: Candidates must pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam.
Training: Completion of a recognized PTCB course is necessary.

Registration Process

Apply: Candidates must apply to the Colorado State Board of Pharmacy.
Approval: Candidates cannot practice until they receive full or provisional approval from the State Board.

Continuing Education

Hours: Pharmacy Technicians must complete at least 20 hours of Continuing Education (CE) every two years.
Content: CE must include one hour of pharmacy law and one hour of patient safety.
Fee: A renewal fee of $40.00 is required every two years.

Average Salary

Annual Salary: The average annual salary for Pharmacy Technicians in Colorado is approximately $37,000.
Hourly Wage: This equates to an average hourly wage of about $17.80.
Factors Influencing Salary: Experience, location, and workplace setting can affect earnings.

Conclusion

Meeting Colorado’s requirements is essential for pharmacy technicians pursuing a career. Always refer to the Colorado State Board of Pharmacy for the latest information and updates.