PTCB Certification Exam Now Available Online

There's great news if you’re considering becoming a certified pharmacy technician! The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) now offers an online certification exam option.

To be eligible, the PTCB requires candidates to complete a course from a recognized educator or have equivalent work experience. By enrolling in the 1st Pass CPhT Course, you’ll meet this requirement—allowing you to complete both the course and the certification exam entirely online from the comfort of your home.

A Pandemic-Era Innovation Returns

Traditionally, PTCB certification exams were only administered in-person at approved testing facilities. However, in 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the PTCB first allowed their exams to be taken online. This change was driven by necessity. Due to the social distancing guidelines, in-person testing wasn’t feasible. Although the online PTCE format was initially temporary, the positive response from test-takers was overwhelming. Candidates reported that online testing offered a more accessible and flexible way to take the certification exam, particularly for those facing travel challenges or other restrictions.

As the world began to recover from the pandemic, in-person testing resumed. However, due to the success of online testing, the PTCB started considering it as a permanent option. In 2023, they announced the official relaunch of online testing, allowing candidates to take the certification exam from the comfort of their homes once again.

The Benefits of Online Testing for Pharmacy Technicians

Online testing provides many benefits, especially for individuals who face obstacles in scheduling or accessing an in-person testing center. Here are some of the significant advantages:

Increased Accessibility 

Not everyone has a testing center nearby. For those living in rural or remote areas, reaching the nearest center may require hours of travel, time off work, and significant expenses. Online testing removes these barriers, giving equal access to everyone, regardless of location.

Greater Scheduling Flexibility

In-person exams are limited to certain hours and days. This can make scheduling an exam a problem for many people, especially those who work full-time, care for family members, or have other obligations. One of the most significant advantages of online testing is its scheduling flexibility. Online PTCB certification tests can be taken at any time of day or night, seven days a week.

Lower Testing Anxiety

Test anxiety can be a genuine hurdle for some individuals. Taking the PTCE online in a familiar, comfortable environment, like home, can help ease nerves and help you focus.

Which PTCB Exams Can Be Taken Online?

Currently, all PTCB certification exams are available online. This includes the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), along with specialized certifications such as:

• Sterile Compounding (CSPT)
• Billing and Reimbursement
• Controlled Substances and Diversion Prevention
• Hazardous Drug Management
• Immunization Administration
• Medication History
• Medication Therapy Management
• Nonsterile Compounding
• Point-of-Care Testing
• Regulatory Compliance
• Supply Chain and Inventory Management
• Technician Product Verification

How is Online Testing Administered?

The PTCB administers online exams through Pearson VUE, the same provider used for in-person testing. This helps ensure that candidates receive a consistent experience whether they take the exam online or in person.

Ensuring Integrity in Online Testing

When taking the PTCE online, you will need an enclosed, private space and a stable internet connection. To maintain the integrity of the test, Pearson VUE uses a combination of advanced technology and real-time monitoring.

AI-powered monitoring detects unusual behaviors, such as looking away from the screen or the presence of unauthorized devices, which could indicate cheating. The AI works in the background to flag any irregularities so the testing environment remains fair for all candidates.

In addition to AI, each candidate is monitored by a live virtual proctor who observes the test in real-time. Proctors are trained professionals who can step in if they notice anything suspicious.

You’ll need a computer with a camera, microphone, and speakers to take the test online. This setup allows both the AI and proctor to monitor your environment effectively. Before scheduling your exam, perform a system check to verify that your system is compatible. You can confirm compatibility by visiting PTCB's Pearson Vue portal and selecting “Run a System Test.”

Schedule Your Online PTCB Exam

Apply through PTCB

First, submit your application to take the certification exam through the PTCB’s website. To be eligible to take the exam, you must have completed a PTCB-recognized course or have at least 500 hours of relevant work experience. Enrolling in our 1st Pass CPhT Course will fulfill this requirement.

Approval and Authorization to Schedule

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive an “Authorization to Schedule” notice. This authorization allows you to schedule your test, and it’s valid for 90 days. This gives you plenty of time to choose a date and time that works best for you.

Selecting an Exam Appointment

When scheduling, you’ll see options for both in-person and online testing. Select the online option, and you’ll be guided through setting up your exam date and confirming your technical requirements.

Is In-Person PTCB Testing Still an Option?

Yes, in-person PTCB testing remains available for those who prefer it. Candidates can still choose to take the certification exam at one of over 1,400 Pearson VUE testing centers nationwide. The PTCB exam costs the same whether you take it at a testing center or online. 

What’s Different About the Online Format?

Despite the difference in testing location, the online and in-person exams are identical in terms of content, structure, and scoring. PTCB designed the online exam to mirror the in-person format, ensuring that all candidates are assessed fairly and consistently, regardless of their chosen testing method.

Choose the Option That’s Right for You

The return of online testing is a game-changer for aspiring pharmacy technicians, providing greater accessibility, flexibility, and convenience. Whether you take your PTCB certification exam online or in person, you can feel confident that you’re receiving a high-quality, secure testing experience. 

How Pharmacy Technician Academy Can Help

At Pharmacy Technician Academy, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve certification and succeed as a pharmacy technician. Our 1st Pass CPhT Course is a recognized program by the PTCB and designed to thoroughly prepare you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE). 

By completing the 1st Pass CPhT Course, you’ll meet the PTCB’s eligibility requirements to take the certification exam, even if you don’t have prior pharmacy experience. The course is structured to cover all the essential topics tested on the PTCE, including medication basics, pharmacy law, patient safety, and more—giving you the knowledge and confidence needed to pass on your first attempt. 

We’re here to support aspiring pharmacy technicians with everything they need to achieve certification and thrive in their careers.