Missouri Pharmacy Technician Licensing Guide

How to become a pharmacy tech in Missouri

Step-by-step guide to Missouri pharmacy technician registration, training, and national certification. Learn how to get licensed, earn your CPhT credential, and start your pharmacy career quickly.
Becoming a pharmacy technician in Missouri is a great way to launch a fulfilling and in-demand career in healthcare. Pharmacy technicians work under the supervision of licensed pharmacists to help prepare and dispense medications, manage inventory, process insurance claims, and ensure the pharmacy operates smoothly. They play a big role in supporting patient care across retail, hospital, and long-term care settings.

If you want to work as a pharmacy technician in Missouri, you must register with the Missouri Board of Pharmacy. Missouri has no minimum age, education, or certification requirement for registration, making it one of the most accessible states for career changers, students, and entry-level healthcare workers. However, earning your Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential can unlock advanced responsibilities, higher pay, and greater career advancement opportunities.

Missouri Board of Pharmacy
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In this Missouri Pharmacy Technician Licensing Guide, we’ll explain the state’s pharmacy technician license requirements, outline the steps to becoming a certified pharmacy technician (CPhT), and provide helpful resources for job seekers, and employers looking to understand Missouri’s 2025 licensing process.

Table of Contents

  1. Overview of Missouri pharmacy technician licensing requirements
  2. Missouri pharmacy technician training and certification requirements
  3. Understanding the PTCB certification process
  4. Step-by-step guide to becoming a certified pharmacy technician in Missouri
  5. How high school students can work as pharmacy technicians
  6. Frequently asked questions about pharmacy technician licensing

Missouri pharmacy technician license requirements

To work as a pharmacy technician in Missouri, you must obtain a license from the Missouri Board of Pharmacy. All technicians, whether employed in a retail, hospital, or long-term care setting, are required to register. Applications are submitted online through the state’s MOPRO licensing system and typically take around three weeks to process.

If you’ve already secured a job at a pharmacy and wish to begin working immediately, Missouri law allows you to start as long as you’ve submitted a completed license application and your fingerprint background check has been initiated. In this case, your pharmacy employer must retain a copy of your completed application and fingerprint receipt on file at the worksite. You’ll be allowed to continue working under this provisional status until your official registration certificate is issued.

Here’s a closer look at Missouri’s pharmacy technician licensing requirements.
  • Application and fee
    • All applicants must submit a license application through the MOPRO online licensing portal.
    • As of August 4, 2025, paper applications are no longer accepted.
    • As of 2025, the application fee is $40.
  • Minimum age requirement
    • Missouri does not have a minimum age requirement for pharmacy technician licensure.
  • Education requirements
    • Missouri does not require a high school diploma or GED to become a licensed pharmacy technician.
    • This allows motivated high school students to begin working in a pharmacy setting while still in school.
  • Background check
  • Training and certification requirement
    • Formal training or national certification (such as the PTCB’s Certified Pharmacy Technician, or CPhT) is not required to register as an entry-level pharmacy technician in Missouri.
    • However, becoming a certified pharmacy technician can open the door to advanced responsibilities, such as assisting with more complex tasks and handling medication verification.
    • Many Missouri employers prefer or require certification and some offer higher pay or advancement opportunities for those who hold the CPhT credential.
You can review the official rules and current requirements in the Missouri Pharmacy Practice Guide.

Missouri pharmacy technician training and certification

The Missouri Board of Pharmacy defines the roles and responsibilities of pharmacy technicians. While formal education, training, and national certification are not required to become a registered pharmacy technician, earning a PTCB Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential can lead to higher pay, greater responsibility, and more career opportunities.

In fact, national certification is required by law to perform many advanced pharmacy technician duties in Missouri. Below are several examples of tasks that are only permitted for certified pharmacy technicians:

Administering vaccinations

In Missouri, certified pharmacy technicians are permitted to administer immunizations under the supervision of a pharmacist. To qualify, technicians must hold a national certification such as the PTCB CPhT.
[20 CSR 2220-6.050]

Performing final product verification

Certified pharmacy technicians may perform final verification of filled prescriptions using technology-assisted methods, commonly known as “Tech-Check-Tech.” National certification is required to take on this responsibility.
[20 CSR 2220-2.012]

Performing medication administration

Pharmacy technicians who wish to administer medications must actively maintain a national pharmacy technician certification. This ensures they have the training and knowledge necessary for safe patient care.
[20 CSR 2220-6.040]

Working in a remote-dispensing pharmacy

Missouri allows certified pharmacy technicians to work in remote-dispensing pharmacies without a pharmacist physically present. To qualify, technicians must meet specific requirements, including holding a national certification.
[20 CSR 2220-2.680]
Higher pay and more opportunities

Why become a certified pharmacy technician in Missouri

Becoming a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) can significantly improve your career potential. Certification demonstrates your knowledge, professionalism, and readiness to take on advanced responsibilities, which makes you a more competitive candidate in today’s job market.

  • Higher earning potential
    Certified pharmacy technicians in Missouri often start at a higher hourly wage than their uncertified peers. In many pharmacies, certification is rewarded with faster raises, additional hours, and more stable employment. Employers are often willing to invest more in certified technicians because they bring added value to the team.
  • Access to better job opportunities 
    Many pharmacy employers (especially hospital systems, long-term care facilities, and specialty pharmacies) either prefer or require national certification when hiring pharmacy technicians. Holding a CPhT credential makes you a stronger applicant and opens doors to a wider range of pharmacy careers.
  • More room for advancement
    With certification, you’re not just qualified for more tasks. You’re also more likely to be considered for lead technician roles and management opportunities. Certification is also often required for pursuing sterile compounding, medication therapy management support, and other specialized roles.
  • Professional recognition and respect
    Becoming a CPhT shows your commitment to the pharmacy profession. It signals to employers, pharmacists, and patients that you take your role seriously and have met nationally recognized standards for knowledge and professionalism.

Understanding the PTCB certification process in Missouri

To become a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) in Missouri, you must pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). This credential is nationally recognized and meets Missouri’s requirements for technicians who want to take on advanced roles like immunization administration, final product verification, and remote-dispensing work.

What is the PTCB?

The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) is the nation’s leading certification organization for pharmacy technicians. Founded by major pharmacy associations, including the American Pharmacists Association (APhA),the PTCB promotes medication safety and professional standards across the U.S.

Passing the PTCB certification exam proves that you have the knowledge and skills to support pharmacists, serve patients, and follow legal and ethical guidelines in any pharmacy setting, from retail to hospital to long-term care.

What’s on the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE)?

The PTCE is a two-hour, computer-based exam consisting of 90 multiple-choice questions. It tests your understanding of four key areas of pharmacy knowledge:
  • Medications
    Covers drug classifications, brand and generic names, dosage forms, indications, side effects, interactions, and proper storage.
  • Pharmacy laws and requirements
    Focuses on laws, controlled substances, HIPAA, and other standards that affect pharmacy practice nationwide.
  • Patient safety and quality assurance
    Tests your ability to prevent errors, ensure accurate dispensing, and maintain high safety standards.
  • Order entry and processing
    Evaluates your ability to read prescriptions, enter orders, calculate doses, and manage pharmacy records.

How to qualify for the PTCE exam in Missouri

To be eligible for the PTCE, you must complete a PTCB-recognized training program or have equivalent work experience. Approved training programs follow strict national standards to ensure that students are well-prepared for both the certification exam and for real-world work in pharmacies.

Completing a recognized program gives you the knowledge, structure, and confidence you need to succeed on your first attempt

Where to find a PTCB-recognized pharmacy technician training program in Missouri

PTCB-approved training options are available in both in-person and online formats, giving you the flexibility to choose what fits best with your schedule, location, and learning style:
  • In-person training – Some Missouri high schools, community colleges, and career centers offer pharmacy technician training as part of their healthcare or CTE (Career and Technical Education) tracks.
  • Online training – Fully remote options like our 1st Pass CPhT Course allow you to complete your training from anywhere in Missouri, at your own pace. This is a great option for students balancing school, work, or family responsibilities.
The 1st Pass CPhT Course is PTCB-recognized and specifically designed to help Missouri students pass the PTCE exam on their first try without the high cost or rigid schedule of traditional programs.

How to become a certified pharmacy technician in Missouri

If you’re ready to start a healthcare career, becoming a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) is one of the fastest and most affordable ways to get started. Earning your national PTCB certification will help you unlock higher pay, advanced responsibilities, and better job opportunities.
Write your awesome label here.

Thanks to recent changes, you can now complete a PTCB-recognized training program and take the certification exam entirely online. This flexibility allows you to meet all the certification and licensure requirements from the comfort of your home and on a schedule that fits your life.

Below, we’ve outlined the quickest and most cost-effective pathway to becoming a certified pharmacy technician in Missouri.

Step 1: Enroll in a PTCB-recognized training program

To be eligible for the national Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), you must either complete a PTCB-recognized training program or have equivalent work experience. Most students choose a structured training program to build pharmacy knowledge and prepare for the exam.
Training options include:
  • In-person programs offered by community colleges, career centers, and some high schools
  • Online programs like the 1st Pass CPhT Course, which is fully self-paced, affordable, and PTCB-recognized

Step 2: Pass the PTCB certification exam (PTCE)

Once you’ve completed your training, you’ll be eligible to take the PTCE, the national certification exam administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
  • The exam includes 90 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 2 hours
  • It can be taken in person at a testing center or online with remote proctoring
  • After passing, you’ll earn the official CPhT credential (e.g., Jordan Green, CPhT)

Step 3: Apply for your Missouri pharmacy technician license

After earning your national certification, the next step is to register as a pharmacy technician with the Missouri Board of Pharmacy. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

Step 4: Start your career as a certified pharmacy technician

Becoming licensed and certified will make you eligible to work in a wide range of pharmacy settings including:
  • Community and retail pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, independent pharmacies)
  • Hospital and health system pharmacies
  • Long-term care, compounding, or specialty pharmacies
  • Remote-dispensing locations

Having both your CPhT credential and Missouri license gives you a strong advantage with employers. Certified technicians are often paid more, trusted with greater responsibilities, and considered for advancement earlier than their uncertified peers.

How high school students can become pharmacy technicians in Missouri

If you’re a high school student in Missouri with an interest in healthcare, becoming a pharmacy technician is a great way to gain real-world experience, earn money, and explore future career paths. Whether you’re thinking about becoming a pharmacist, nurse, physician, or another type of healthcare professional, working in a pharmacy while still in school can help you build practical skills and strengthen your college or scholarship applications.
Two high school students working in a pharmacy setting in Missouri.

No age or diploma requirement

The Missouri Board of Pharmacy recognizes the value of giving high school students early exposure to healthcare careers. That’s why there’s no minimum age and no high school diploma requirement to apply for a pharmacy technician license in Missouri.

This makes Missouri an ideal place for motivated students who want to start working in healthcare while still in school. You can gain hands-on experience, build professional references, and earn income before you graduate.

Additionally, the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) does not require a minimum age or education level to take the national PTCE certification exam. That means you can become a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) during high school, giving you a strong advantage when applying for colleges, scholarships, or future healthcare programs.

How pharmacy technician certification helps your college applications

Earning your CPhT certification as a high school student is a powerful achievement. It shows colleges, scholarship committees, and employers that you’re motivated, capable, and serious about your future.

Completing a nationally recognized certification exam like the PTCE requires dedication, studying, and responsibility which are traits that admissions offices value. Whether you’re applying to a pharmacy school, nursing program, or pre-med track, being a certified pharmacy technician shows that you are serious, motivated, and have already taken action toward a healthcare career.

How to get started as a high school pharmacy technician in Missouri

Some high schools in Missouri offer Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs focused on health sciences. If your school has a pharmacy technician pathway, that’s a great way to begin.

If your school doesn’t offer a pharmacy-specific program, you still have options:
  • Talk to your guidance counselor about enrolling in a PTCB-recognized online training program, such as the 1st Pass CPhT Course. Many Missouri schools have successfully sponsored students even without a formal pharmacy curriculum in place.
  • If school sponsorship isn’t available, you can enroll on your own. Our course is fully online, self-paced, and designed to fit around your high school schedule.

Need help talking to your school?

If you’re interested but unsure how to start the conversation with your school about sponsorship, we’re here to help. Simply fill out the form below, and a member of our team will reach out to your counselor with information on how they can support students in becoming pharmacy technicians.

Frequently asked questions

Do pharmacy technicians need to be licensed in Missouri?

Yes. Anyone working as a pharmacy technician in Missouri must register and obtain a license from the Missouri Board of Pharmacy. 

What are the requirements for a pharmacy technician license in Missouri?

To get your Missouri pharmacy technician license, you must:
  • Submit an online application through the MOPRO licensing portal
  • Pay the $40 application fee (as of 2025)
  • Complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check

Do you need a high school diploma to become licensed in Missouri?

No. Missouri does not require a high school diploma to become a registered pharmacy technician. This makes it possible for high school students to gain valuable healthcare experience by working part-time in a pharmacy.

How old do you have to be to work as a pharmacy technician in Missouri?

There is no minimum age requirement in Missouri. Students can begin working in pharmacies while still in high school, as long as they’ve submitted a completed license application and fingerprint background check.

Where can I take a PTCB-recognized pharmacy technician training program?

You can enroll in a PTCB-recognized training program either in person or online. Options include:
  • Local programs – Some Missouri community colleges, vocational schools, and high schools with CTE (Career and Technical Education) pathways offer pharmacy technician training.
  • Online programs – Flexible, affordable programs like the 1st Pass CPhT Course allow you to train from home, on your own schedule. These are ideal for individuals balancing work, school, or other obligations. 

How long does it take to become a certified pharmacy technician?

The timeline depends on the training program you choose. Traditional in-person programs can take up to a year to complete. However, self-paced online courses like the 1st Pass CPhT Course allow you to study at your own speed. Most students finish our program in 2 to 3 months and earn their national certification shortly after.

Ready to Get Started?

Enroll today and start your journey to becoming a certified pharmacy technician in Missouri.

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