ExCPT FAQs
Answers to the most common questions about the ExCPT.
What is the ExCPT?
The ExCPT, or Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians, is used to assess a candidate's knowledge of pharmacy practice. This exam is administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) and is one of two possible exams that can be taken to satisfy the requirements for becoming a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) in the United States (the other being the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE)).
What can you do with a pharmacy technician certification?
A pharmacy technician certification enables you to work behind the counter at a pharmacy or in another medical setting, lawfully managing and dispensing medications. Pharmacy technicians play a crucial role in supporting pharmacists and are in high demand across various healthcare environments, including clinics, hospitals, and retail pharmacies such as Walgreens or CVS. A certification can help you break into the pharmacy field and increase your earning potential.
What is the difference between the PTCE and ExCPT?
Both exams cover the same topics and satisfy U.S. requirements for those seeking to become pharmacy technicians. However, they are administered by two distinct organizations: the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) offers the PTCE, and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) offers the ExCPT.
The PTCB certification is more widely recognized in hospital and clinical settings, while the NHA certification is better suited for retail pharmacy roles. The PTCB also offers additional, exclusive certifications, such as immunization, sterile compounding, and advanced CPhT credentials. While the NHA does not provide additional certifications directly, holders of the NHA CPhT can gain more certifications through third-party organizations.
The ExCPT/NHA certification is accepted nationally, but certain states may prefer a PTCB certificate. The specific fees and content breakdown will depend on which exam you elect to take. For more information, see our blog post on the differences between the PTCE and ExCPT.
How often is the ExCPT offered?
The ExCPT is offered both remotely and in-person throughout the year. However, exam date availability may vary depending on your nearest PSI testing center.
How many times can I retake the ExCPT?
There is no limit on how many times you can take the ExCPT, but the National Healthcareer Association does require candidates to wait a period of 30 days to reapply to take the exam after their first two attempts.
What is the ExCPT pass rate?
The ExCPT pass rate was 62% in 2024, and has remained just above 60% over the past 3 years.
| Year | Exams Administered | Exams Passed | Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 13,390 | 8,570 | 64% |
| 2023 | 15,609 | 9,834 | 63% |
| 2024 | 16,519 | 10,241 | 62% |