Louisiana Pharmacy Technician Requirements
Louisiana requires pharmacy technicians to begin as Technician Candidates. To become licensed, candidates must complete training, gain experience, and pass a national certification exam.
How to Become a Pharmacy Technician
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Register with the Louisiana Board of Pharmacy as a Pharmacy Technician Candidate
- Choose one of the following education paths:
- Option A: Complete a nationally accredited and Board-approved training program
- Option B: Accumulate 600 hours of on-the-job training in a Louisiana-licensed pharmacy
- Pass the PTCE or ExCPT national certification exam
- Apply to upgrade to Licensed Pharmacy Technician status
- Renew license annually
Pharmacy Technician Salary
Pharmacy technicians in Louisiana typically earn $17–$20 per hour. Certified and fully licensed technicians may earn more, especially in hospital or specialty settings.
State Registration Requirements
- Technician Candidate registration is required before working
- Must complete a training program or work experience requirement
- National certification is required for full licensure
- Technicians must work under pharmacist supervision
- License renewal required annually
Continuing Education Requirements
- Louisiana requires 10 CE hours every year for license renewal
- PTCB Certification requires 20 CE hours every 2 years, including 1 hour in Pharmacy Law and 1 hour in Patient Safety
Summary
Louisiana pharmacy technicians must register as Technician Candidates and complete either formal training or in-pharmacy work experience before becoming fully licensed. Certification is required, and CE is needed annually for state renewal and biennially for national certification.