California pharmacy technician requirements
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Credential | Pharmacy technician license |
| Education | High school graduate or GED equivalent |
| Qualifying methods | A qualifying training course or pharmacy technology associate degree, PTCB certification, ExCPT certification (dated on/after 1/1/2017), or qualifying military training |
| Application fee | $120 (effective 1/1/2025) |
| Renewal fee | $150 every 2 years |
| Background check | Fingerprint background check and National Practitioner Data Bank query |
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The short version
California does not require national certification - PTCB or ExCPT is one of several ways to qualify, alongside a qualifying training program or associate degree.
Steps
- Meet the education requirement
Attach proof of high school graduation or GED.
- Pick a qualifying method
Training course/degree, PTCB, ExCPT or military training.
- Apply to the Board
Submit application 17A-7, fee, fingerprints and supporting documents.
- Renew every 2 years
Biennial renewal fee $150.
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HealthCert Prep is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). PTCB, PTCE and CPhT is a trademark of its owner. All practice questions on this site are original.
Frequently asked questions
How do I become a pharmacy technician in California?
1) Meet the education requirement. 2) Pick a qualifying method. 3) Apply to the Board. 4) Renew every 2 years.
Is PTCB certification required in California?
A qualifying training course or pharmacy technology associate degree, PTCB certification, ExCPT certification (dated on/after 1/1/2017), or qualifying military training.
Sources
- California State Board of Pharmacy - Pharmacy Technician License (accessed 2026-09-23)
- California Board of Pharmacy - Pharmacy Technician Application (17A-7, rev. 1/2025) (accessed 2026-09-23)
- California State Board of Pharmacy - Fee Schedule (accessed 2026-09-23)