Top 10 things to know about PTCB Certification
If you’re interested in how to become a pharmacy tech, one of the biggest steps is passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) test. According to the PTCB, this test was developed to, “to determine whether individuals have mastered the knowledge and skills necessary to work as a pharmacy technician1.” To get certified, you’ll have to meet certain eligibility requirements, apply to take the test and try to pass. If you do, and you have the appropriate education and skills, you could qualify for pharmacy technician jobs in Miami and throughout the United States. Here are the top 10 things you should know about PTCB certification so you can prepare to pass this exam.
- Eligibility
To qualify for the PTCB certification exam, you need to meet certain requirements. This includes
- Having a high school diploma or equivalent (if you’re within 60 days of completion, you may take the test)
- Full disclosure of any criminal history as well as State Board of Pharmacy registration or licensure actions
- Compliance with the PTCB codes
- Earning a passing score on the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam
- Education Verification
If you meet all of the requirements, you’ll need to submit evidence of your high school or higher education with a copy of your diploma or transcripts.
- Application
Once you’ve determined that you’re eligible to take the test, it’s time to apply. You can do this online and the cost is $129. Once you’re authorized, you’ll be allowed to schedule your exam.
- Test Format
As you prepare for the PTCB exam, it’s good to know the format of the test. The exam is made up of 90 multiple choice questions with four answers to choose from. Currently, the test is broken down into assisting the pharmacist while serving patients, maintaining medication and inventory control systems, and administering and managing pharmacy practices. You’ll have two hours to complete the exam and need to score at least 650 out of 900 to pass.
- Test Accommodations
If you need special accommodations, request them when you apply. Reasonable accommodations that meet with the Americans with Disabilities Act will be provided by the PTCB.
- Education
The PTCB isn’t an easy exam, and to pass you’ll need to prepare. One of the best ways to get ready is by completing the Pharmacy Tech program at FVI. In this program, our experienced instructors will provide you with information and training for the PTCB exam. With sample tests, online study guides, out of class tutoring, and even clinical practices, this great program will cover all aspects of the exam so you have the best chance of success.
- Practice Tests
Along with studying for your exam, it’s a good idea to test your pharmacy tech skills by taking practice tests. If you’re in the Pharmacy Tech program at FVI, you’ll be given sample exams as part of the program. You can also find practice tests and other information on the PTCB website.
- Make A Schedule
When you’re studying for the PTCB certification test, it’s helpful to create a study schedule. This gives you a designated time to study so you aren’t cramming at the last minute. The PTCB exam is intense, and you’ll need all the time you can get to prepare.
- Test Day
The night before the test, make sure you settle down early so you have plenty of rest. In the morning, have a well-balanced breakfast and avoid interacting with people who cause you stress. Then leave with plenty of time to get to your test destination so you don’t have a hectic drive.
- Relax
One of the biggest things that trip up PTCB test takers is their own stress level. This test is important to your career as a pharmacy tech, but worrying won’t help anything. If you’ve studied and prepared yourself, you should be ready to pass. So before you begin, close your eyes, take a deep breath and think to yourself, “I can do this.”
