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Pharmacy Technician

Pharmacy Technician

Pharmacy technicians, under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist, assist in the various activities of the pharmacy department. Pharmacy technicians assist the pharmacist in preparing and distributing medications, maintaining the day-to-day inventory, and maintaining records

DC Registration Required? Yes

Projected DC Annual Job Openings: 68*

Average DC Yearly Salary: $46,520*

DC Registration Requirements

Pharmacy technicians are governed by the DC Board of Pharmacy. To become registered as a pharmacy technician, applicants must:

Education Prerequisites

Have obtained a high school diploma, its equivalent, or a board-approved examination

Certifications

Have a current certification from one of the following organizations or another organization approved by the board:

  • Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE)
    • Completion of a PTCBRecognized Education/Training Program or equivalent work experience (500 hours)
    • Pay $129 exam fee
    • Maintain certification with 20 hours of continuing education every two years
  • National Healthcare Association (NHA) Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT)
    • Have obtained a high school diploma or its equivalent
    • Completed a pharmacy technician training or education program within the last 5 years
    • Pay $125 exam fee
  • Maintain certification with 20 hours of continuing education every two years

Background Check

Undergo a criminal background check

Training Requirements

Complete a pharmacy technician training program that is approved by the DC Board of Pharmacy. Accreditation bodies include the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists and the Higher Education Licensure Commission for Accrediting Agencies.

License

Following the completion of training, register with the DC Board of Nursing through Credentia.com

Current DC Healthcare Academy Training Programs

Learn more​:

- Fall 2024: George Washington Health
-January 2025: Howard University College of Pharmacy

* Projected Annual Openings are based on regional O-NET data for endoscopy technicians from 2020-2030 and projected openings Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center, click here for more information. Average yearly salary is based on regional O-NET data for endoscopy technicians click here for details.