How To Become A Pharmacy Technician In Maryland

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

Age and Education: Be at least 17 years old with a high school diploma or GED.
Background Check: Complete a criminal background check (~$38).
Certification: Obtain PTCB or ExCPT certification.
Registration: Register with the Maryland State Board of Pharmacy, pay a $45 fee, and complete 160 hours of practical experience or pass a board-approved exam within 18 months.
Continuing Education: Complete 10 hours of CE after the first renewal and 20 hours thereafter.

The Maryland Board of Pharmacy oversees the licensing of pharmacy technicians in Maryland. Technicians must complete a required training program or pass a board-approved exam. 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 Maryland 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: Data not specified.

Minimum Age Requirement

Candidates must be at least 17 years old.

Education Requirements

A high school diploma or GED is required.

Certification Requirements

Yes, PTCB or ExCPT certification is accepted and recommended to practice in Maryland.

Background Checks

Candidates must undergo a thorough criminal background check, which costs approximately $38.

Registration and Licensing

Yes, registration with the Maryland State Board of Pharmacy is required.
Non-refundable application fee: $45.
Annual renewal fee: $45.
Candidates must complete either 160 hours of practical experience or pass a licensed exam.
From the date of registration, candidates have up to 18 months to complete this exam.

Continuing Education Requirements

10 hours of board-approved continuing education (CE) after the first renewal.
20 hours of CE after every renewal thereafter.

Technician Representation on Board

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

Average Salary

$15.24/hr

Useful Links and Resources

Notes

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

Advanced Opportunities and Professional Development

Specialized Training Programs Pharmacy technicians in Maryland can pursue specialized training in areas such as:

Sterile Compounding: Training for preparing medications in a sterile environment.
IV Preparation: Skills for preparing intravenous medications safely.

Leadership Roles Experienced technicians can advance into leadership roles such as:

Lead Pharmacy Technician: Overseeing daily operations and training new technicians.
Pharmacy Technician Supervisor: Managing a team of technicians and ensuring compliance with regulations.

Professional Development Resources

Maryland Pharmacists Association (MPhA): Offers networking, education, and professional development resources.
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP): Provides certifications and continuing education opportunities.

Community Engagement and Outreach

Health Fairs and Community Events

Pharmacy technicians can participate in local health fairs and community events to provide medication education and health screenings.

Patient Education Workshops

Conduct workshops to educate patients on medication management, adherence, and safety.

Networking and Career Growth

Professional Associations

Joining professional associations such as the Maryland Pharmacists Association (MPhA) and the National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA) provides networking opportunities, career growth, and access to continuing education resources.

Mentorship Programs

Engage in mentorship programs to receive guidance, support, and career advice from experienced professionals.

Industry Conferences and Seminars

Attend conferences and seminars to stay updated on the latest advancements, best practices, and regulatory changes in the field.