How to become a pharmacy technician in Maryland
If you'd like to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare industry without spending years in school, becoming a pharmacy technician in Maryland could be right for you. With focused training that can be completed in as little as six months, you can quickly begin making a difference in patients' lives. Below, discover the steps you must take to become a pharmacy technician in Maryland.
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What does a pharmacy technician in Maryland do?
A pharmacy technician works alongside a licensed pharmacist to provide customer service and help manage inventory. During busy hours, they may fill prescriptions for the pharmacist to check to help move the line along. Qualified pharmacy techs can also administer vaccines.
Pharmacy technicians can have different specialties, such as oncology or critical care, and can work in specialized pharmacy settings where they prepare nuclear medications or compound medications for patients.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), pharmacy technicians in the United States made a median salary of $40,300 in 2023. The top 10% made $57,130, while the bottom 10% made $32,720.
Steps to become a pharmacy technician in Maryland
To begin training as a pharmacy technician, you must be at least 17 years old and have a high school diploma or GED certificate.
Step 1: Complete an accredited training program
Maryland now requires all potential pharmacy techs to complete a nationally accredited training program. Most certification programs take about six months. You'll learn about medication calculations, medical terminology, and pharmacy systems. You'll also gain hands-on experience through on-the-job training to round out your classroom education.
You can also take a state-certified course, but it has to include at least 160 hours of training and may not prepare you for the national certification exam.
Step 2: Pass a national certification exam
Maryland requires pharmacy techs to pass a nationally recognized pharmacy technician certification exam. Once you complete your training program, you can sit for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT).
Successful completion of either of these exams gives you your Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credentials.
Step 3: Complete your background check
As part of the licensing process, you'll need to complete a criminal background check through Maryland's Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS). Then, visit an authorized fingerprinting service provider to have your fingerprints taken. Once you receive your fingerprint card, submit it to CJIS along with the required processing fee.
Step 4: Apply for registration
Submit your completed application packet, including all required documentation, to obtain your Maryland pharmacy technician license. You'll find the submission address on the Maryland Board of Pharmacy website.
Step 5: Renew your license
You have to renew your license every year. It expires on the last day of your birth month, beginning one year after your first registration.
In your first year, you must complete at least 10 credits of continuing education. To maintain your license, you must complete 20 continuing education credits every two years before renewal. Completing an average of 10 credits per year can help you stay on track with your renewal requirements.
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