What does the PTCB do?

The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) is a private organization headquartered in the United States in Washington, DC, that provides credentials to new pharmacy technicians who pass voluntary exams. In addition, the PTCB grants re-certification for experienced workers who complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years. Certification is not required by all regions and employers, but passing the exam and maintaining good standing with the PTCB can significantly improve a tech's job options, pay, and advancement opportunities.

The PTCB's mission is to ensure that pharmacy techs are fully prepared to handle the responsibilities of the job, from understanding the basics of clinical pharmacology to working efficiently with pharmacists. The test covers national pharmacy standards, legal matters, confidentiality, and customer service duties. In order to meet eligibility requirements, an individual needs to have a clean criminal history and possess a high school diploma or a general equivalency diploma.

The multiple-choice computer-based exam consists of 90 questions and test takers are allotted two hours to complete it. Exams are proctored by PTCB-accredited administrators at approved testing centers in the United States. After completing the test, a person can view his or her scores immediately on the computer screen. Passing scores are sent to PTCB headquarters so that the board can verify results and send off official certificates. If an individual fails, he or she can take the test up to three more times within a 90-day period.

A prospective pharmacy tech who wants to find out about PTCB testing centers, dates, and costs can visit the organization's website or contact a representative over the phone. The website also offers practice tests and study tips to ensure that a person is fully prepared for the exam. Testing centers are located in most large cities across the United States, and many centers offer two or more dates a month. After submitting application material, a person has 90 days to set a date and sit for the exam.

In order to maintain certification with the PTCB, a pharmacy tech is required to complete at least 20 approved continuing education hours over a two-year period. Many activities can count toward a person's continuing education, including college courses in science and math, approved refresher classes and seminars, and practical on-the-job training by a pharmacist. In order to ensure that a tech is up-to-date on the latest legal concerns, least one hour of continuing education must be focused on pharmacy law. Techs who are able to obtain and keep certification usually have the best chances of advancing within their professional careers.