How to Become a Pharmacy Technician
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Pass a criminal background check and provide fingerprints
- Submit an application for a Pharmacy Technician Trainee license (valid for up to 36 months)
- Choose one of the following paths to qualify for full licensure:
- Option A: Complete a Board-approved or ASHP-accredited training program and pass the PTCE or ExCPT
- Option B: Accumulate 2,000 hours of pharmacy technician experience and pass the PTCE or ExCPT
- Apply to upgrade to a Certified Pharmacy Technician license
- Renew license biennially
Pharmacy Technician Salary
Pharmacy technicians in Arizona typically earn $18–$22 per hour. Certified and hospital-based technicians may earn higher wages.
State Registration Requirements
State Licensure Requirements
- Licensure is required before employment
- Trainees must become certified within 36 months
- Certification (PTCB or ExCPT) is mandatory for full licensure
- Technicians must work under pharmacist supervision
- License must be renewed every two years
Continuing Education Requirements
- Arizona does not require CE for state license renewal
- PTCB Certification requires 20 CE hours every 2 years, including 1 hour in Pharmacy Law and 1 hour in Patient Safety
Summary
Arizona requires all pharmacy technicians to be licensed. Candidates may start as trainees, but national certification is required to obtain and maintain full licensure. CE is not required by the state but is necessary for certification renewal.