How to become a pharmacy technician trainee

What does a pharmacy technician trainee do?

Pharmacy technician trainees are essential members of the pharmacy team. These aspiring professionals gain hands-on experience under the supervision of licensed pharmacists as they work toward certification. Pharmacy technician trainees assist with preparing and labeling medications, managing inventory, and providing customer service and patient support.

Steps to become a pharmacy technician trainee

Starting as a pharmacy technician trainee is often the first step toward a long-term career as a certified pharmacy technician.

Many start their careers as trainee pharmacy technicians by taking the following steps:

Step 1: Earn a high school diploma or GED

The first requirement to become a pharmacy technician trainee is to complete a high school diploma or General Education Development (GED). Having a strong foundation in science, math, and communication is vital for the role. Accurately preparing prescriptions, for example, requires the ability to measure and do simple calculations.

Step 2: Enroll in an accredited pharmacy technician training program (optional)

While training is optional for trainees in many states, enrolling in an accredited pharmacy technician training program can help give you a competitive edge. Top-tier programs are accredited by organizations like the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) and the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP).

Programs are available at community colleges, vocational schools, or online platforms and often cover topics like:

• Medication calculations and preparation
• Pharmacy laws and ethics
• Understanding drug classifications
• Practical, hands-on experience in clinical settings

Step 3: Register as a pharmacy technician trainee (state requirement)

In most states, you'll need to register as a pharmacy technician trainee to legally work and gain on-the-job experience under a pharmacist's supervision.

For example, in Texas, trainees must register with the Texas State Board of Pharmacy, submit proof of high school completion, and pass a fingerprint-based background check. Registration costs $55 and is valid for two years, during which, trainees are expected to gain experience or pursue certification.

Step 4: Gain relevant work experience

After registering, you can start working in a pharmacy to obtain practical experience. This is a chance to practice core duties, watch qualified pharmacy technicians in action, and discover how a pharmacy runs on a regular basis. It's an essential stage in developing your abilities in the industry.

Step 5: Obtain certification (optional)

Certification can significantly improve your job prospects, leading to higher pay and access to specialized roles in hospitals or compounding pharmacies. Popular options include the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) and the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT), which require a high school diploma and relevant training or experience.

In Texas, for example, obtaining certification is key to advancing from a trainee to a licensed pharmacy technician, enabling you to work independently and grow your career.