Renewing your certification is required for maintaining an active status as a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) and a Certified Compounded Sterile Preparation Technician (CSPT). Completing required continuing education (CE) helps pharmacy technicians stay up to date on the latest in pharmacy practice, expand their knowledge, and advance their professional growth.
PTCB upgraded the renewal application process in 2019 so CPhTs can renew in minutes, subject to PTCB review. Be sure to review the new process carefully.
Meet employer and state board requirements. By renewing certification promptly, pharmacy technicians provide themselves the freedom to work where they choose. PTCB works with many employers who require their pharmacy technicians to maintain their PTCB Certification. In addition to requiring initial certification, some State Boards of Pharmacy also require maintaining your certification.
Save time and money. It is easier and less expensive to maintain your certification than to reinstate or retake the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam: CPhTs and CSPTs must recertify on time or take the exam again. For employers, making sure employees complete CEs and renew their certification is the best decision for advancing safety and for their bottom line.
Advance your career. Maintaining an active certification sets you apart in a rapidly growing profession and positions you for career advancement. Many employers require technicians to maintain active certification before considering them to fill advanced and specialized roles in the pharmacy. Pharmacy technicians report higher pay, title changes, and expanded job responsibilities for maintaining their certifications.*
Advance patient safety. Maintaining your certification demonstrates your dedication to medication safety and commitment to pharmacy, allowing you to keep up with the latest advances in the field.