Virginia Pharmacy Technician Requirement
Virginia requires pharmacy technicians to be registered with the state. Applicants must complete formal education or on-the-job training 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
- Submit a pharmacy technician registration application to the Virginia Board of Pharmacy
- Choose one of the following education paths:
- Option A: Complete a Board-approved or ASHP-accredited pharmacy technician training program
- Option B: Complete on-the-job training and provide documentation from your pharmacy employer
- Pass a national certification exam (PTCE or ExCPT)
- Pass a criminal background check
- Renew registration annually
Pharmacy Technician Salary
Pharmacy technicians in Virginia typically earn $18–$22 per hour. Certified technicians and those in hospitals or specialty settings often earn more.
State Registration Requirements
- Registration must be completed before employment
- Applicants must meet both education and certification requirements
- Certification (PTCB or ExCPT) is mandatory for registration
- Technicians must work under pharmacist supervision
- Registration must be renewed every year
Continuing Education Requirements
- Virginia requires 5 CE hours every year for registration renewal
- PTCB Certification requires 20 CE hours every 2 years, including 1 hour in Pharmacy Law and 1 hour in Patient Safety
Summary
Virginia pharmacy technicians must complete formal training or employer-based training, pass a national certification exam, and register with the Board. CE is required annually for state renewal and biennially for national certification.