How Long Does It Take to Get Pharmacy Technician Certification? Timeline & Steps

Introduction

If you’re exploring a career in healthcare but don’t want to spend years in medical school, becoming a pharmacy technician might be the perfect path. One of the most common questions people ask is: how long does it take to get pharmacy technician certification?

The answer is not the same for everyone. How long does it take to get pharmacy technician certification depends on your state’s requirements, the training program you choose, and how quickly you can pass the exam. The timeline could be as short as a few months or as long as two years. In this guide, we’ll break down the process step-by-step so you know exactly what to expect.

Understanding Pharmacy Technician Certification

Before answering how long does it take to get pharmacy technician certification, it’s important to understand what the certification means.

A pharmacy technician certification is a recognized credential that confirms you have the skills to assist pharmacists in preparing and dispensing medications. Many states require certification, and even in states where it’s optional, it can significantly improve your job opportunities.

The two main certification bodies in the U.S. are:

• PTCB (Pharmacy Technician Certification Board) – Offers the CPhT credential.
• NHA (National Healthcareer Association) – Offers the ExCPT credential

How Long Does It Take to Get Pharmacy Technician Certification?

So, how long does it take to get pharmacy technician certification? The time frame varies, but generally, you’ll spend anywhere from 4 months to 2 years depending on your chosen path.

Pathway	Duration
On-the-job training + certification exam	6–12 months
Certificate/Diploma program at a college	9–12 months
Associate degree in pharmacy technology	18–24 months
Fast-track online programs	4–6 months

Step-by-Step Timeline: How Long Does It Take to Get Pharmacy Technician Certification

1. Research State Requirements (1–2 weeks)

The first step in determining how long does it take to get pharmacy technician certification is to check your state’s rules. Some states require formal training, while others allow you to take the exam after on-the-job training.

2. Complete Education or Training (4 months – 2 years)

The training stage will be the biggest factor in how long does it take to get pharmacy technician certification. You have several options:

• Certificate or Diploma Program – Typically 9–12 months.
• Associate Degree – 18–24 months for more advanced training.
• Online Fast-Track Program – Can be completed in 4–6 months.
• Employer-Sponsored On-the-Job Training – Around 6–9 months.

3. Apply for the Certification Exam (2–4 weeks)

After training, you’ll need to apply for the exam with PTCB or NHA. This step is quick, but the exam date availability may affect how long does it take to get pharmacy technician certification overall

4. Prepare for the Exam (4–8 weeks)

Even if you had a strong training program, spend 1–2 months reviewing topics such as:

• Pharmacy law
• Drug classifications
• Pharmaceutical calculations
• Safety protocols

Efficient exam prep can shorten how long does it take to get pharmacy technician certification because you’ll pass on the first try.

5. Take and Pass the Exam (1 day + results time)

The exam itself only takes about two hours, but receiving official confirmation can take up to 3 weeks. That’s another factor in how long does it take to get pharmacy technician certification from start to finish.

6. Get Licensed (If Required) (2–6 weeks)

Some states require an additional licensing process. This could extend how long does it take to get pharmacy technician certification by several weeks.

Average Timeline by Path

Here’s a quick overview of how long does it take to get pharmacy technician certification depending on your route:

Training Type	Total Time
Fast-track online program + exam	5–7 months
Traditional certificate/diploma	10–14 months
Associate degree route	20–28 months
Employer-sponsored on-the-job training	6–12 months

How to Get Certified Faster

If you want to reduce how long does it take to get pharmacy technician certification, follow these tips:

1. Choose an Accredited Online Program – Self-paced courses help you finish quickly.
2. Study While Training – Start preparing for the exam before your program ends.
3. Book Your Exam Early – Avoid delays by securing a test date in advance.
4. Complete State Requirements Early – Do background checks and paperwork while studying.
5. Use Practice Tests – Increases your chance of passing the first time.

Job Outlook After Certification

Once you’ve completed the process and no longer have to wonder how long does it take to get pharmacy technician certification, you can work in:

• Retail pharmacies
• Hospitals
• Specialty pharmacies
• Long-term care facilities

The demand for pharmacy technicians remains strong, and certification can boost your earning potential.

Final Thoughts on How Long Does It Take to Get Pharmacy Technician Certification

So, how long does it take to get pharmacy technician certification? The timeline depends on your program, study pace, and state rules—but it can be as quick as 5 months or as long as 2 years. By planning ahead and choosing the right training path, you can become a certified pharmacy technician faster and start enjoying a rewarding career in healthcare.

FAQs About How Long Does It Take to Get Pharmacy Technician Certification

Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Certification requirements and timelines may vary by state. Please verify details with your state’s pharmacy board or official certification bodies.