Massachusetts Pharmacy Technician Requirements
Massachusetts requires pharmacy technicians to register with the state. While national certification is not mandatory for all settings, formal training or certification is required depending on the practice environment.
How to Become a Pharmacy Technician
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Submit a pharmacy technician registration application to the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Pharmacy
- Choose one of the following training or certification paths:
- Option A: Complete a Board-approved pharmacy technician training program
- Option B: Hold national certification (PTCB or ExCPT)
- Option C: Complete employer-based training and demonstrate competency through evaluation
- Pass a national certification exam if seeking Certified Pharmacy Technician status
- Renew registration every two years
Pharmacy Technician Salary
Pharmacy technicians in Massachusetts typically earn $19–$23 per hour. Certified technicians and those working in hospitals often earn higher wages.
State Registration Requirements
- Must register before employment
- Pharmacy technicians must meet one of the approved training or certification options
- Technicians must work under direct pharmacist supervision
- Registration renewal is required every two years
Continuing Education Requirements
- Massachusetts does not require CE for state registration renewal
- PTCB Certification requires 20 CE hours every 2 years, including 1 hour in Pharmacy Law and 1 hour in Patient Safety
Summary
Massachusetts pharmacy technicians must register with the state and fulfill one of several training or certification paths. CE is not required by the state, but is necessary for those maintaining national certification.