How to Renew
A certification needs to be renewed to stay active. When you become a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT), a Certified Compounded Sterile Preparation Technician® (CSPT®), an Advanced Certified Pharmacy Technician™ (CPhT-Adv™), and/or a Certified Pharmacy Technician Educator™ (CPTEd™), you must complete required continuing education (CE) and submit a renewal application to keep your credential active. CE helps you stay current on the latest in pharmacy practice, expand your knowledge, and advance your professional growth.
CPhT, CPhT-Adv, and CPTEd recertification is required every two years, while CSPT recertification is required every year. In order to recertify, you must have an NABP e-Profile ID on file with PTCB that is visible in your PTCB Account. You can renew in minutes, subject to PTCB review. Be sure to review the process carefully.
You can apply for recertification 60 days before your certification expiration date within your PTCB Account. You must submit your application by 11:59 PM ET of your Application Deadline, which is the first day of the certification expiration month. Applications submitted after the Application Deadline will incur a $25 late application processing fee. Learn More
Why renew your certification?
Meet employer and state board requirements. By renewing your certification promptly, you can provide yourself the freedom to work where you choose. PTCB works with many employers who require their pharmacy technicians to maintain their PTCB Certification. In addition to requiring initial certification, some State Boards of Pharmacy also require maintaining your certification.
Save time and money. It is easier and less expensive to maintain your certification than to reinstate or retake the exam. For employers, making sure employees complete CEs and renew their certification is the best decision for advancing safety and for their bottom line.
Advance your career. Maintaining an active certification sets you apart in a rapidly growing profession and positions you for career advancement. Many employers require technicians to maintain active certification before considering them to fill advanced and specialized roles in the pharmacy. Pharmacy technicians report higher pay, title changes, and expanded job responsibilities for maintaining their certifications.
Advance patient safety. Maintaining your certification demonstrates your dedication to medication safety and commitment to pharmacy, allowing you to keep up with the latest advances in the field.
Renewal Resources: