Colorado Pharmacy Technician Requirements
Colorado mandates that all pharmacy technicians be certified through the State Board of Pharmacy before practicing. National certification (PTCB or NHA) is required — Colorado does not allow unlicensed trainees.
How to Become a Pharmacy Technician
- Be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED
- Complete a Board-approved training program — either a PTCB- or NHA-recognized course or an ASHP-accredited program
- Undergo a criminal background check (attestation is sufficient) S
- Pass a national certification exam (PTCE or ExCPT)
- Submit application to the Colorado Board with proof of certification, attestation of background check, and required fees
- Maintain certification and state registration, including renewal every two years
Pharmacy Technician Salary
Technicians in Colorado earn an average of $20 to $23 per hour, with metropolitan areas like Denver typically offering higher wages.
State Registration Requirements
- State licensure is mandatory; all technicians must be certified and registered
- No provisional or trainee license beyond the initial requirement for certification within 18 months (now fully certified upon registration)
- Pharmacist-to-technician ratio: Up to 6 techs per pharmacist, with most certified
Continuing Education Requirements
- Colorado State Registration
- Maintain active national certification (PTCB or NHA) and attest at renewal (audited annually)
- Colorado requires technicians to complete continuing education as part of national certification maintenance — there is no separate state-mandated CE.
- PTCB or NHA Certification
- 20 CE hours every 2 years, including 1 hour in Pharmacy Law and 1 hour in Patient Safety
Summary
In Colorado, pharmacy technicians must fulfill all requirements for national certification (training, exam, and background check) before state registration. Once certified and registered, technicians may practice under pharmacist supervision, up to a ratio of six techs per pharmacist. Continuing education is required only to uphold national certification, which Colorado deems essential for maintaining state registration.