New Mexico Pharmacy Technician Requirement
New Mexico requires pharmacy technicians to be licensed and certified. Technicians may begin work under a provisional registration while completing the necessary training and certification.
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 New Mexico Board of Pharmacy
- Pass a criminal background check
- Begin as a Technician Trainee under a provisional registration
- Choose one of the following paths to qualify for full licensure:
- Option A: Complete an ASHP-accredited or Board-approved pharmacy technician training program
- Option B: Accumulate sufficient on-the-job experience under a pharmacist and pass the national certification exam
- Pass the PTCE or ExCPT
- Apply to upgrade to Certified Pharmacy Technician status
- Renew license every two years
Pharmacy Technician Salary
Pharmacy technicians in New Mexico typically earn $18–$21 per hour. Certified techs in hospitals and specialty roles may earn more.
State Registration Requirements
- Technicians must register before beginning work
- Provisional licenses are valid while completing training and certification
- National certification is required for full licensure
- Technicians must work under pharmacist supervision
- License renewal required every two years
Continuing Education Requirements
- New Mexico requires 20 CE hours every 2 years for state license renewal
- Must include 2 hours in New Mexico pharmacy law
- PTCB Certification also requires 20 CE hours every 2 years, including 1 hour in Pharmacy Law and 1 hour in Patient Safety
Summary
New Mexico requires all pharmacy technicians to be certified and licensed. Technicians may work under a provisional license while completing training and certification. CE is required for both state license and national certification renewal.