Montana Pharmacy Technician Licensing Guide

How to Become a Pharmacy Tech in Montana

This guide breaks down everything you need to become a certified and licensed pharmacy technician in Montana—from choosing a PTCB-recognized training program to passing the certification exam and applying for state registration.
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If you’re looking for a meaningful healthcare career where you can make a real difference in people’s lives, becoming a pharmacy technician is a smart and rewarding choice. Pharmacy technicians are essential members of the healthcare team, working alongside pharmacists to help patients get the medications they need.

In Montana, the profession is regulated by the Montana Board of Pharmacy, and anyone who wants to work as a pharmacy technician must be registered with the state. That means before you can start working in a pharmacy, you’ll need to meet certain licensing and training requirements.

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Whether you’re just beginning to explore a career in healthcare, recently graduated from high school, or moving to Montana from another state, this guide will walk you through the entire process. From understanding state registration requirements and national certification options to finding the right training program and submitting your application, we’ll help you take the guesswork out of getting started.

Table of Contents

  1. Montana pharmacy technician licensing requirements
  2. Understanding PTCB certification
  3. Step-by-step guide: How to getting licensed in Montana
  4. FAQ: Becoming a becoming a pharmacy technician in Montana

Montana Pharmacy Technician Licensing Requirements

If you’re planning to work as a pharmacy technician in Montana, you must first be registered with the Montana Board of Pharmacy. Registration is required before you can begin working in any pharmacy setting. Below is a breakdown of the current licensing requirements to help guide you through the process:
  • Application and fee
    • All pharmacy technician applications must be submitted online through the Montana Board of Pharmacy licensing portal.
    • As of 2025, the nonrefundable registration fee is $35.
  • Minimum age requirement
    • Applicants must be at least 18 years of age at the time of registration.
  • Education requirements
    • To qualify for registration, you must have a high school diploma, GED, or recognized equivalent. 
  • Certification requirement
    • All pharmacy technicians must hold national certification from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or another certification body approved by the state.
    • Individuals who are not yet certified may be eligible for a provisional license pending certain requirements.
Official rules and regulations governing pharmacy technician registration in Montana can be found in the Administrative Rules of Montana: Chapter 24.174.701.

Certification Requirements for Pharmacy Technicians

To work as a licensed pharmacy technician in Montana, you must hold national certification. Certification ensures that all technicians have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to assist pharmacists, support patient safety, and maintain high standards of pharmacy practice.

The Montana Board of Pharmacy accepts certification from nationally recognized organizations. The most common and widely preferred option is the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), which awards the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential. While other certifying bodies may be accepted, most employers in Montana look for the PTCB credential due to its credibility and nationwide recognition.

If you are not yet certified, you may qualify for a provisional technician license. This allows you to begin working in a pharmacy under certain conditions while you complete the certification process. However, you must obtain full national certification to maintain long-term licensure in Montana.

Understanding PTCB certification

The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) is the most widely recognized certification body for pharmacy technicians in the U.S. Founded by the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) and other leading pharmacy organizations, the PTCB sets national standards for technician competency and helps ensure patient safety across all pharmacy settings.

To become certified, candidates must complete a PTCB-recognized training program, or have equivalent work experience, and successfully pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).

Once certified, you can use the CPhT designation professionally (e.g., Taylor Morgan, CPhT) and will meet Montana’s requirement for full pharmacy technician registration.

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

The PTCE is a nationally standardized exam designed to assess the core competencies required for safe and effective pharmacy practice. It includes 90 multiple-choice questions and covers the following four knowledge domains:
  • Medications
    Covers drug classes, brand and generic names, uses, common side effects, and proper storage guidelines.
  • Pharmacy laws and requirements
    Assesses knowledge of pharmacy laws, DEA regulations, controlled substances, and ethical/legal standards.
  • Patient safety and quality assurance
    Focuses on preventing medication errors, using quality control procedures, and maintaining high standards in patient care.
  • Order entry and processing
    Evaluates your ability to read prescriptions, perform calculations, and process medication orders accurately.

Step-by-Step Pharmacy Tech Licensing Guide for Montana

Becoming a licensed pharmacy technician in Montana is a straightforward process when you follow the right steps. Thanks to flexible online training options and nationally recognized certification exams, you can complete your training, earn your credentials, and apply for state registration—often without ever stepping into a classroom.
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Step 1: Enroll in a PTCB-Recognized Training Program

If you do not have prior pharmacy experience in another state, you’ll need to complete a training program approved by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). 
You can choose from:
  • In-person programs at local community colleges or vocational schools
  • Online training programs from PTCB-recognized providers like Pharmacy Technician Academy.

Step 2: Pass the PTCB Certification Exam (PTCE)

After completing your training, you’ll be eligible to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE). This is the nationally recognized certification exam administered by the PTCB.
  • The exam can be taken either online with remote proctoring or in person at a PearsonVUE testing facility.
  • Once you pass the exam, you’ll earn the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential, which satisfies Montana’s certification requirement.

Step 3: Register as a Pharmacy Technician

With your CPhT credential in hand, you can now apply for your Montana pharmacy technician license. Registration is handled by the Montana Board of Pharmacy through the state’s online licensing portal. To apply, you'll need to:
  • Complete the online application found on the Board of Pharmacy's website.
  • Pay the $35 nonrefundable application fee (as of 2025)

Step 4: Start Your Career as a Pharmacy Technician

With your training finished, certification earned, and Montana registration approved, you’re fully prepared to launch your pharmacy technician career. When applying for positions, make sure to emphasize that you are already trained, certified, and licensed. Employers actively seek candidates who are ready to contribute from day one and being fully qualified can help you stand out, speed up the hiring process, and negotiate a higher starting salary.

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.

The course is self-paced, fully online, and built to fit your schedule. You’ll learn everything tested on the PTCE, including medication fundamentals, pharmacy law, order processing, and patient safety. With clear instruction and real-world examples, you’ll gain the confidence and knowledge needed to pass the exam on your first try.

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

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a license to work as a pharmacy technician in Montana?

Yes. To legally work as a pharmacy technician in Montana, you must be registered with the Montana Board of Pharmacy. Registration is required before beginning employment in any pharmacy setting.

Is national certification required in Montana?

Yes. Montana requires pharmacy technicians to hold national certification, such as the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or another state-approved certifying organization.

Can I work while I’m still earning my certification?

In some cases, yes. Montana may allow you to apply for a provisional pharmacy technician license while you are completing your certification. However, this license is temporary and you must meet the full certification requirement within a specified timeframe.

Do I need to go to school to become a pharmacy technician in Montana?

A college degree isn’t required, but most individuals need to complete a PTCB-recognized training program before taking the certification exam. These programs are available both in person and online through approved providers like Pharmacy Technician Academy.

How much does it cost to become a pharmacy technician in Montana?

Here’s a general breakdown of costs:
  • PTCB exam fee: $129
  • Montana registration fee: $35
  • Training program: Varies (Online programs like Pharmacy Technician Academy are typically more affordable)

How old do you have to be to register as a pharmacy technician in Montana?

You must be at least 18 years old to apply for pharmacy technician registration in Montana. You’ll also need to have a high school diploma or GED.

How much do pharmacy technicians earn in Montana?

Wages can vary depending on experience, certification, and location. On average, pharmacy technicians in Montana earn around $18.50 to $21.00 per hour, with higher wages available in hospital or specialty pharmacy settings.

Ready to Get Started?

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

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