Maryland Pharmacy Technician Licensing Guide
How to Become a Pharmacy Tech in Maryland
A clear, step-by-step guide to meeting Maryland's pharmacy technician licensing requirements and starting your career.
Maryland Pharmacy Technician Requirements
Maryland Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirement
Pathway 1
National Certification from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board
The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) is a national organization that certifies pharmacy technicians. To earn PTCB certification, you must complete a PTCB-recognized training program and pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
Choosing the PTCB route not only meets Maryland’s licensing requirements but also gives you a nationally portable credential—making it easier to find pharmacy technician jobs across the country and advance your career.
What’s on the PTCB Certification Exam?
Complete a Maryland-Specific Training and Examination
Important Considerations for the Maryland-Specific Pathway
Which Path Is Right for You?
How to Become a Certified Pharmacy Technician
Becoming a certified pharmacy technician Maryland is now more convenient than ever. With flexible online training programs, you can complete your education, pass the certification exam, and apply for your license—all from the comfort of your home.
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How High School Students Can Become Pharmacy Technicians in Maryland
No High School Diploma Required
Some Maryland high schools may offer Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs or scholarships that help cover the cost of pharmacy technician training. Even if your school doesn’t have a formal program, you can still get started on your own.
Many high school students have successfully completed our self-paced, online pharmacy technician course while managing their school schedules and extracurricular activities. Because the course is flexible and available 24/7, you can study on your own time—whether it’s after school, on weekends, or during school breaks.
To get started:
To get started:
- Talk to your high school guidance counselor about available resources or funding opportunities
- Enroll in a PTCB-recognized program like the 1st Pass CPhT Course to prepare for the certification exam and take the first step toward a healthcare career
How Pharmacy Technician Academy Can Help You Succeed
At Pharmacy Technician Academy, we’re committed to helping you earn your certification and launch a successful career as a pharmacy technician. Our 1st Pass CPhT Course is a PTCB-recognized training program specifically designed to prepare you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE)—even if you have no prior pharmacy experience.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to go to school to become a pharmacy technician in Maryland?
No college degree or traditional school is required to become a pharmacy technician in Maryland. However, to qualify for licensure, you must complete either a PTCB-recognized certification program or a Maryland Board-approved training program and exam. These options ensure you have the knowledge and skills necessary to work safely in a pharmacy environment.
Is certification required to become a licensed pharmacy technician in Maryland?
Not necessarily. The Maryland Board of Pharmacy requires all pharmacy technicians to complete an approved training pathway. Most individuals choose to earn national certification through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), but you also have the option to complete a state-approved training program and pass a Maryland-specific exam.
What’s the difference between PTCB certification and a Maryland-specific training program?
PTCB certification is nationally recognized, giving you more job flexibility and career options—especially if you plan to move or work in a nearby state. Maryland-specific training programs meet state requirements but do not award the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential and may limit your future job opportunities.
How long does it take to become a pharmacy technician in Maryland?
The time required depends on the training path you choose. Traditional college programs may take a year or more, while many self-paced online programs can be completed in just a few weeks or months. Once you’ve fulfilled all requirements, the Maryland Board of Pharmacy usually processes license applications fairly quickly.
How much do pharmacy technicians earn in Maryland?
Pharmacy technicians in Maryland earn an average hourly wage of $21.58, but pay can increase based on experience, certification, and location. For instance, experienced and certified individuals in the 90th percentile earn on average $28.60 per hour. For more information, visit our Maryland Pharmacy Technician Salary and Job Outlook Report.
How old do you have to be to become a pharmacy technician in Maryland?
You must be at least 17 years old to apply for a pharmacy technician license in Maryland.
Can I work as a pharmacy technician while still in high school in Maryland?
Yes. As long as you’re at least 17 years old and currently enrolled in high school, you’re eligible to apply for a pharmacy technician license in Maryland. Many high school students have successfully completed our self-paced online course while still in school.
Ready to Get Started?
Helpful Reads
State requirements
Maryland Pharmacy Technician Requirements
Find out how to become a pharmacy technician in Maryland.
Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in
Maryland
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Submit an application and licensing fee to the Board of Pharmacy. For 2025, the application fee is $45.
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Be currently attending high school, have a high school diploma, or a GED.
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Submit proof of national certification or proof of training/work experience. See below.
Pharmacy Technician Certification and Education Requirements
Best Way to Become a Certified Pharmacy Technician in Maryland
Other Benefits of PTCB Certification
Get a higher salary
Certified technicians get paid significantly more. Employers know that you will need less training, and could be trusted with more responsibility.
Get hired more quickly
Certified technicians have a proven commitment to pharmacy. This sends a big signal to employers that you are dedicated and dependable.
Find a more desirable job
Pharmacies that prioritize employee wellbeing and good work environments are more discerning when it comes to hiring. Certification opens doors to more attractive job opportunities.
PTCB Certification Requirements
To become a certified pharmacy technician you must meet the following criteria
Residency
Reside in the United States of America or its territories.
Certification program or equivalent work experience
Complete an approved training program (like the 1st Pass CPhT Course) or have 500 hours of equivalent work experience. See below.
Compliance
You must comply with all PTCB policies and disclose all criminal and state Board of Pharmacy license actions.
Pass the PTCE
Obtain a passing score on the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam.
Certification Exam
Eligibility Requirements
In order to qualify to sit for the PTCB certification exam, you must complete one of the following:
Pathway 1:
Complete a PTCB Approved Pharmacy Technician Course (such as 1st Pass CPhT).
This is the preferred method.
This is the preferred method.
Pathway 2:
Complete 500 hours work experience as a pharmacy technician.
PTCB classifies this as an alternative method for individuals not in a position to attend a course.
PTCB classifies this as an alternative method for individuals not in a position to attend a course.
The Preferred Method:
A PTCB Approved Training Program
There are several reasons why Pathway 1 is the preferred method
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Work experience alone will not teach you enough to pass the PTCB certification exam. You will still have to study.
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Certified technicians are offered significantly higher starting wages. Working 500+ hours without being certified can cost you thousands of dollars.
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Pharmacies that offer better work environments are more selective in their hiring. Being certified gives you access to more desirable jobs.
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Certified technicians are given priority when scheduling shifts.
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As a CPhT, you will get more respect from your peers and patients.
Overview
Benefits of our training program
There are many advantages to our 1st Pass CPhT training program. Here are just a few. Visit the course page to learn more.
Expertly designed curriculum
Our curriculum was designed by board certified clinical pharmacists and pharmacy managers. Pass the PTCE and learn the skills employers are seeking. See the 1st Pass CPhT Course Page to find out more about the 1st Pass Advantage.
Accelerated learning experience
Accelerated but self-paced. Motivated students who have time to devote to studying can finish the course in as little as three weeks. You can be on your way to a new career in less than a month.
Affordably priced
Technology and determination allowed us to make this course accessible to everyone looking to start a new healthcare career.