How to become a pharmacy technician in Texas

A pharmacy technician works at the intersection of healthcare and operations — supporting pharmacists to ensure safe and efficient patient medication management. Read on to learn how to become a pharmacy technician in Texas.

What does a pharmacy technician do?

Pharmacy technicians are vital members of the healthcare team. These skilled professionals prepare and label medications, manage inventory, and process insurance claims, all while assisting patients with their inquiries. A pharmacy technician must also excel in communication and customer service to ensure a smooth and efficient pharmacy operation.

• Key skills: Strong attention to detail, organization, mathematical proficiency, communication, and excellent customer service.
• Workplace settings: Pharmacy technicians work in various settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, mail-order pharmacies, specialty pharmacies, and pharmaceutical companies.

Steps to become a pharmacy technician in Texas

To work as a pharmacy technician in Texas, you must meet specific educational, certification, and licensure requirements outlined by the Texas State Board of Pharmacy (TSBP).

Many aspiring pharmacy technicians in Texas take the following steps:

Step 1: Earn a high school diploma or GED

To become a pharmacy technician in Texas, you'll first need a high school diploma or GED. This foundational qualification provides essential math, science, and communication skills, which are crucial for the role. For instance, strong math skills can help you excel in medication calculations, a key aspect of a pharmacy technician's responsibilities.

Step 2: Enroll in a pharmacy technician training program

Completing a training program accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) or another recognized body is not required but highly recommended in Texas. Community colleges, vocational schools, or online platforms offer these programs. They cover key topics such as:

• Pharmaceutical calculations
• Medication preparation
• Pharmacy law and ethics
• Hands-on training in a clinical setting

Step 3: Obtain national certification

To work as a pharmacy technician in Texas, you must pass a national certification exam, either the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT). These exams evaluate your knowledge of pharmacy law, medication safety, and pharmaceutical calculations.

Step 4: Register for licensure with the Texas State Board of Pharmacy (TSBP)

After earning national certification you must register for licensure with the Texas State Board of Pharmacy (TSBP) as a technician trainee before starting work. A Pharmacy Technician Trainee registration is an entry-level registration for those completing training. It is valid for two years and cannot be renewed.

After two years, you must complete relevant continuing education and apply for Pharmacy Technician registration, allowing you to continue working in the field.

Get started on edX

Ready to learn more? Discover edX's online healthcare courses and start your journey to becoming a pharmacy technician in Texas today.