ExCPTBest courses
Summary: Best ExCPT prep resources (2025 - 2026)
One of the primary pathways to becoming a certified pharmacy technician (CPhT) in the U.S. is by successfully passing the ExCPT). Earning a passing score on this test, formally known as the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians, is a significant milestone for medical professionals. Upon achieving the required ExCPT passing score (approximately 80% or higher), candidates are awarded the nationally recognized NHA CPhT credential, opening new doors to employment and career advancement opportunities within the field. Excelling on the ExCPT requires thorough preparation, including mastery of practical pharmacy technician skills and a solid understanding of technical knowledge relevant to pharmaceutical practice.
The ExCPT exam is administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), a leading nonprofit professional certification organization for healthcare professionals. Consisting of 120 questions (100 scored), this certification test lasts two hours and rigorously assesses candidates' knowledge of pharmaceuticals, regulatory compliance, safe medication delivery, and patient care fundamentals. With an emphasis on the dispensing process, the ExCPT is especially valuable for those seeking roles in retail pharmacy settings; however, individuals with the NHA certification are qualified to work in nearly any pharmaceutical environment.
To be eligible for the exam, candidates must have completed either a pharmacy technician training program or accumulated substantial work experience. While formal training and hands-on learning lay a strong foundation for the ExCPT, many aspiring technicians will seek additional resources, such as ExCPT-specific courses or study guides, to increase their chances of achieving a passing score. To support your journey toward NHA CPhT certification and help you pass the test, we've assembled a list of top test prep providers offering comprehensive ExCPT courses and supplemental study materials. These include resources from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), Trivium Test Prep, Mometrix, Exam Edge, and Peterson's Test Prep, each highlighted with marketing language to showcase their unique features. Browse and compare ExCPT study materials, read student reviews, and find the best fit to help you excel as a future pharmacy technician.
Some user reviews have been slightly edited for length and clarity.
How we evaluated these resources
Our top picks for ExCPT preparation include options that cater to every study schedule and preference, ranging from self-guided textbooks to specialty practice test packages. We chose our selections based on:
- Cost
- Are the materials offered worth the investment?
- Variety
- Does the study manual or other core study material come with other features that add value, like flashcards, live instruction, etc.?
- Coverage
- Does the material include all major sections on the exam? Which resources are designed for holistic preparation, and which are better suited for quick reviews on specific topics?
- Accessibility
- Is the language used easy to follow, and do the vendors successfully break down difficult concepts into digestible parts?
- Community feedback
- What do candidates have to say about these ExCPT instructional materials, practice tests, and other resources? What was the experience like using them?
For each vendor, we list the key features, pros, and cons of their study aids and tools, highlighting provider strengths and potential limitations. Our guide below can help you make an informed decision about how you can best prepare for this terminology- and process-heavy exam.
Most reliable: National Health Association (NHA)
- NHA, the organization that administers the ExCPT, has its own proprietary set of test preparation materials that align closely with the official exam.
- Their practice exams, study guides, and combined packages all come with interactive online tools that help solidify concepts and make their informational materials more engaging.
- Three unique, computer-based, 100-question practice tests that mirror the length and format of the actual exam
- Customizable options allow you to purchase practice tests, the study guide, or both, depending on your needs
- Crafted by the same organization that administers the exam, so their materials are likely to be the most accurate
- Only 6 total attempts for practice exams
- No live instruction or tutoring
- Printed study guide options come with fewer features, but are the same price as online study guide packages
- Focused Review® online remediation for each exam
- End of module quizzes
- Tracking analytics
- Flashcards, review games, videos, and other engaging study tools are included
The NHA not only administers the ExCPT exam but also provides pharmacy technician candidates with official NHA CPhT preparation materials, extending well beyond standard practice exams. Available in both print and online formats, the NHA ExCPT study guide stands out for its interactive features, including educational games, flashcards tailored to pharmacy terminology, an audio glossary, module introduction videos, and progress analytics to help track learner advancement. All NHA Pharmacy Technician study resources are organized into an eight-module structure, aligning directly with the official ExCPT exam blueprint. This structure comprehensively addresses key content areas, such as pharmacy technician roles and responsibilities, federal laws and regulations, controlled substances, drug classifications, commonly prescribed medications, and more.
In addition to these structured modules, the full NHA ExCPT study preparation package incorporates real-world case studies, end-of-module quizzes, and multiple practice tests that closely mirror the actual ExCPT exam format. The online NHA CPhT study guide also features access to the Pharmacy Calculations Lab, offering step-by-step walkthroughs for pharmacy-related math, remediation tools to pinpoint areas needing extra review, and educator dashboards to monitor group progress. For added flexibility, test-takers can purchase ExCPT practice exams separately for $49, based on their individual study preferences. While these comprehensive NHA pharmacy technician resources provide an in-depth review path and robust interactive learning tools, NHA emphasizes that these materials are intended as supplements to full pharmacy technician training and self-study, not replacements. According to user feedback, the NHA online ExCPT study guide carries a higher price tag ($69 for the study guide alone and $89 for the study guide with exams), but is widely regarded as a valuable investment for serious exam preparation.
“I thought the practice exams were helpful, and the questions on the actual exam were similar to the practice questions.”
“I just passed my test yesterday, and I would recommend buying the NHA study guide and practice tests. It's a little pricey but very worth it.”
Bottom line: As the organization behind the ExCPT exam, NHA offers a diverse selection of online tools and resources for ExCPT prep. Their NHA CPhT study guides and supplemental materials are considered highly accurate in reflecting the content found on the actual test, making them ideal additions to a comprehensive study plan for pharmacy technician certification.
Best printed textbook: Trivium Test Prep
- Trivium's printed materials can accommodate any study schedule, providing bite-sized overviews, in-depth content, and test-taking tips.
- Their 148-page study book is slim and compact compared to similar options, making their printed materials ideal for students on the go.
- Quick but complete review of ExCPT topics
- Tips and tricks from real pharmacy technicians are included throughout the workbook
- Ideal for learners who prefer physical review materials with complementary online study aids
- Online features are limited
- No digital textbook
- Fewer practice exams than other options
- 2 full practice tests (1 print and 1 online)
- Flashcards, study "cheat sheets," and test-taking strategies are all accessible online
- Full answer explanations for practice exams
Many students choose to anchor their ExCPT study plan with Trivium Test Prep's well-reviewed workbook, the ExCPT Exam Study Guide: A Rapid Test Prep Review with Practice Questions. Mirroring industry leaders such as Mometrix and Peterson's Test Prep Review, Trivium provides dedicated self-learners with supplemental books and tools crafted to optimize ExCPT exam preparation. Their comprehensive manual delivers a streamlined overview of core ExCPT content areas, including medication classifications, federal requirements, prescription order entry and processing, patient safety protocols, and quality assurance. This study guide features two full-length ExCPT practice exams, along with multiple practice questions, and is designed for complete mobile and online accessibility, allowing you to conveniently study from anywhere. The materials are meticulously aligned with the latest ExCPT exam content outline, and users receive access to free online study resources, including interactive flashcards, downloadable cheat sheets, and expert exam tips from seasoned pharmacy technicians, all designed to boost test-day confidence and performance.
Beyond its core study guide, Trivium Test Prep emphasizes accessibility and time efficiency, promoting a fast but thorough review that avoids overwhelming detail. The integrated online resources can be accessed via the included links or QR codes in the manual, unlocking advanced features such as realistic practice exams and supplementary materials. Although this product remains unofficial and unaffiliated with NHA certification authorities, it is intentionally structured to replicate the genuine exam experience and help students focus on areas that need improvement. Many test-takers commend the clarity of Trivium's study guide and frequently rate it as an indispensable asset in their ExCPT exam preparation; however, some have encountered minor difficulties navigating online content access.
“The grey paperback-sized volume was all that was needed to study. It is around $50 on Amazon, but just one book prepares you as opposed to buying several different books to be prepared…”
“I like the book, very informative, but the code for the online practice test did not work”
Bottom line: With a qualified physical workbook and robust digital assets, Trivium Test Prep stands out as an effective choice for candidates aiming to maximize their ExCPT success. Despite occasional issues with online tools, many learners found the practice exams and flashcards offered by Trivium to be both practical and truly reflective of actual exam questions.
Recommended by working professionals: Mometrix
- Mometrix has been a longtime favorite among healthcare professionals studying on their own time, creating high-quality physical materials designed for even the busiest schedules.
- Combines a physical study manual with helpful online review materials, such as step-by-step video tutorials
- Detailed and clear answer explanations for each question
- Another great option for candidates who want a physical study manual and complementary online resources
- Updated for 2025 and 2026
- Students will have to supplement with their own study aids (no flashcards or cheat sheets included)
- At 245 pages, the book is harder to transport than Trivium's
- 4 full-length, online interactive practice tests (2 are also printed in the textbook)
- Test-taking tips and strategies are also included online
Mometrix's ExCPT study guide is promoted as a comprehensive exam prep resource built to align with the official content domains of the NHA's ExCPT certification exam. Designed for pharmacy technician candidates of varying experience levels, the review book provides an in-depth overview of every key subject and knowledge area covered on the test. Officially titled ExCPT Study Guide – Certified Pharmacy Technician Exam Book Secrets, the Mometrix ExCPT study guide offers a comprehensive and user-friendly review of all exam sections, utilizing clear and approachable language that makes even complex topics accessible. Unlike some resources, the Mometrix ExCPT study guide emphasizes not only what to learn but also how to succeed on test day. Each chapter includes targeted practice questions, in-depth answer explanations, and proven strategies for mastering test-taking skills.
With the purchase of the Mometrix ExCPT study guide, learners receive four full-length practice exams (two of which are included directly in the book), step-by-step video tutorials to reinforce challenging concepts, and actionable test-taking tips and strategies. The curriculum is structured for efficient, focused review, eliminating unnecessary content and pinpointing concepts most likely to appear on the actual ExCPT exam. If you want an efficient yet thorough ExCPT study plan, Mometrix provides a well-organized solution highly recommended among busy pharmacy professionals. As with other self-guided ExCPT prep programs, materials are limited to the textbook and practice tests; this setup works best for individuals who are comfortable creating accompanying aids and managing their own self-study pace. While Mometrix is not officially affiliated with the ExCPT test administrator, they focus on delivering a realistic and accurate preparation experience.
“I love this study guide! The answers are explained thoroughly and in an easy-to-understand language, and explanations of why incorrect answers are incorrect are especially helpful.”
“I passed my ExCPT exam!...The study material I was recommended by other techs was Mometrix.”
Bottom line: The Mometrix ExCPT study guide stands out as a flexible, self-paced exam prep program with detailed answer explanations for every question. The range of prep resources is somewhat limited, so students may wish to supplement their ExCPT study guide by creating additional materials or integrating study aids from other providers.
If practice tests are all you need: Exam Edge
- For candidates who want to drill their test-taking skills, Exam Edge offers packages providing more than enough practice tests to prepare.
- While the list prices for their packages are high, Exam Edge frequently runs deals and promotions, making its items more affordable
- Flexible packages allow you to choose the number of practice exams you want to supplement your preparation
- Detailed step-by-step walk-throughs and explanations of each answer are provided
- Practice tests never expire
- The 25 practice exam tier comes with a pass guarantee
- Not all packages include a study guide
- Expensive when not on sale
- 90 questions on each test, which is 10 fewer than what's on the actual exam
- All packages come with flashcards
- Study guides included for higher-tier options
- Timed, untimed, or study guide mode available for all exams
Exam Edge's ExCPT practice exam-focused course is built around full-length, online simulations that closely replicate the actual ExCPT test content, format, timing, and level of difficulty. These expert-designed ExCPT practice exams are tailored to reflect not only the actual exam structure but also the types of questions and pacing students need to master to pass. According to Exam Edge, each mock test includes authentic ExCPT exam features, timed sections, comprehensive coverage of core topics, and instant scoring, giving you the tools to build familiarity and confidence. After completing each practice test, you'll receive immediate results paired with in-depth question explanations for both correct and incorrect answers, allowing you to identify weak areas and work strategically toward achieving your target ExCPT passing score before exam day. For thorough preparation, Exam Edge offers a package featuring 25 full-length ExCPT practice exams, each with approximately 90 unique questions (per their description), delivering a total of over 2,250 real-world practice questions to help you reach the required ExCPT passing score. The comprehensive bundle also comes with 100 flashcards, a focused study guide, and includes a pass guarantee.
Flexibility and accessibility set this ExCPT practice exam course apart: all tests are delivered completely online (no installations required), with 24/7 access on any device. You can pause and resume your ExCPT practice exam sessions, keep your remaining time secure, and return whenever it suits your schedule. The regular pricing for the largest bundle exceeds $700; therefore, we recommend purchasing bundled exam packages during sales. The most popular choice among ExCPT candidates is the 10-test bundle, which also includes the flashcard set and the study guide at a significantly lower price compared to the full package.
“The website is easy to use, and there are many options for exam prep. The questions were scaffolded in an effective fashion. I passed the exam!”
“Great test prep...questions ended up being less specific and factual and more situational, but I was comfortable with the test layout ahead of time!”
Bottom line: Exam Edge's ExCPT practice exam bundles supply you with over 2,000 authentic exercise questions, multiple opportunities to take realistic full-length exams, and comprehensive feedback to help you pass the test. Unless purchased on sale, Exam Edge's complete packages tend to be significantly pricier than competing options.
Most complete course: Peterson's
- With live instruction and educator-crafted study materials, Peterson's Test Prep offers a complete ExCPT preparation solution, along with access to over 250+ courses through their monthly subscription plans.
- Included in Peterson's packages are online tutoring, study guides, a full-service app, and other dynamic tools not offered by other programs.
- Flexible subscription options are available depending on your personal time commitments
- Live, online tutoring available for 3-month subscriptions and beyond
- Comes with unlimited access to all of Peterson's catalogue of courses
- Test-prep app and other online resources built into their program
- 1-month plan does not come with tutoring
- No physical materials
- Limited tracking analytics
- 3 full-length practice tests
- 300 practice questions with detailed answer explanations
- Test-taking tips
- Study skills course
- Personalized onboarding
Peterson's offers a highly regarded online course tailored specifically for ExCPT exam preparation, making it a strong contender in any ExCPT test prep review. This comprehensive program integrates live tutoring, specialized exam materials, focused study skills courses, and more. The course emphasizes authentic test readiness through three full-length, timed ExCPT practice exams that closely replicate the actual testing environment. Additionally, students benefit from approximately 300 supplemental practice questions, each featuring detailed answer explanations and actionable test-taking strategies. Their curriculum is aligned with the official ExCPT exam blueprint, thoroughly covering domains such as pharmaceutical regulations, technician responsibilities, drug classifications and therapies, and quality assurance standards.
When considering format and flexibility, Peterson's ExCPT test prep stands out with its subscription-based access options, which include one-month, three-month, or six-month plans based on your personal study timeline. All of Peterson's subscription plans grant unlimited entry not only to ExCPT-specific resources but also to Peterson's extensive library of over 250 exam-prep courses, ideal for candidates pursuing multiple certifications. The most popular plan, a 3-month subscription, is priced at $45 per month and includes 90 minutes of live, online tutoring.
The course further provides essential test-taking tips, robust progress tracking tools to identify and strengthen weak areas, and a systematic approach to improvement. According to community feedback highlighted by Peterson's, the practice exams are "very accurate to the test," and users consistently appreciate the clarity of the answer explanations. While Peterson's is a trusted leader in professional certification prep, it's important to note that their ExCPT course has fewer learner reviews compared to some competitors, resulting in less direct feedback on course effectiveness. Nevertheless, the extensive range of study aids and structured learning resources makes it an excellent choice for candidates seeking a guided ExCPT test prep experience.
“The practice tests are wonderful [and] very accurate to the test…I was very pleased.”
“All in all…Peterson's is a good source of information [for] specialized exams. They can help you prepare for your future with their test-taking tools such as specialized exam courses, flashcards, practice tests, and more.”
Bottom line: The variety of interactive study tools and instructional support positions Peterson's as an outstanding option for those who want a thorough, well-supported approach to ExCPT exam preparation.
Why it matters
There are numerous ExCPT exam prep providers available today that promise to help candidates achieve a passing score on the exam. Knowing what top-rated providers offer can help you select the materials you need to guide or supplement your study efforts. Remember that earning the NHA CPhT credential:
- Enhances your qualifications as a pharmacy technician
- Leads to increased employment opportunities, especially in retail environments
- Helps boost salary potential
- Demonstrates commitment to professional development
Selecting the right ExCPT study materials can make a significant difference in your exam preparation experience and ultimate success.
Wrapping up
Passing the ExCPT exam is an important step toward becoming a certified pharmacy technician and advancing your career in the pharmaceutical field. While formal training provides a strong foundation, dedicated exam preparation using quality study materials can significantly increase your chances of success. Whether you prefer comprehensive study guides, practice test packages, or subscription-based learning platforms, there's an ExCPT prep resource that fits your learning style and schedule. By carefully evaluating the features, costs, and user feedback for each provider, you can select the study materials that will best support your journey to NHA CPhT certification. Best of luck on your exam!