PTCE FAQs
Answers to the most common questions about the PTCE.
What can you do with a Pharmacy Technician Certification?
With a Pharmacy Technician Certification (CPhT), individuals can work in various healthcare settings, such as retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities, assisting pharmacists in dispensing medications, managing inventory, and providing customer service. Additionally, certification may lead to higher job prospects, increased earning potential, and opportunities for career advancement within the pharmacy profession.
How do I get a PTCB Certification?
To obtain a Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) certification, which requires passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), there are several steps and requirements you must fulfill:
1. You must reside in the United States or its territories, as the certification is specific to this region.
2. You are required to complete a PTCB-Recognized Education/Training Program. Alternatively, if you have equivalent work experience of a minimum of 500 hours, that can also satisfy this requirement on a case-by-case basis.
3. You must fully disclose any criminal history and any actions taken by State Boards of Pharmacy regarding your registration or licensure. Failure to report criminal history can result in your certification being taken away.
4. In addition to these steps, you must also comply with all PTCB Certification policies.
5. Finally, you must achieve a passing score on the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
By meeting these criteria and successfully passing the PTCE, you will earn your PTCB Certification.
What is the difference between the PTCE and ExCPT?
The PTCE (Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam) is administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). In contrast, the ExCPT (Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians) is administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Both exams assess the knowledge and skills of individuals seeking certification as pharmacy technicians, but their specific contents and costs differ. See our blog post for a full breakdown.
How often is the PTCE offered?
The PTCE is typically offered year-round, and candidates can schedule their exam at a time and location that is convenient for them, based on test center availability.
How many times can I retake the PTCE?
You can retake the PTCE as many times as you need; however, there is a six-month waiting period between your third and fourth attempts. After your fourth attempt, you must submit proof of acceptable preparation activities to the PTCB to retake the test. Review the PTCB's exam retake policies.
What is the PTCE pass rate?
The PTCE pass rate varies from year to year, but has remained around 70% over the past 3 years of available data. In 2024, the PTCE pass rate was also 70%.
| Year | Exams Administered | Exams Passed | Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 48,862 | 28,058 | 57% |
| 2019 | 51,768 | 29,910 | 58% |
| 2020 | 33,634 | 23,522 | 70% |
| 2021 | 42,615 | 30,134 | 71% |
| 2022 | 42,344 | 29,805 | 70% |
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