New Mexico Pharmacy Technician Licensing Guide
How to Become a Pharmacy Tech in New Mexico
A clear, step-by-step guide to meeting New Mexico’s pharmacy technician licensing requirements and starting your career.
New Mexico Pharmacy Technician Requirements
New Mexico Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirement
Pharmacy Technician Certification Board
What is a PTCB Certification?
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).
Passing the PTCE not only satisfies New Mexico’s certification requirement but also awards you the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential—an industry-recognized title that demonstrates your professionalism and readiness to work in pharmacy settings.
What’s on the Certification Exam?
Temporary Uncertified Pharmacy Technician Registration
Key Considerations for Uncertified Registration
How to Become a Certified Pharmacy Technician
Becoming a certified pharmacy technician in New Mexico 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.
Write your awesome label here.
Pharmacy Technician Opportunities for High School Students Under 18
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).
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to go to school to become a pharmacy technician in New Mexico?
No, New Mexico does not require you to attend a formal school or earn a degree to become a pharmacy technician. However, you must earn a certification from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or another approved organization.
You can meet this requirement by completing a PTCB-recognized training program, such as the 1st Pass CPhT Course, and passing the PTCB certification exam.
Is certification required to work as a pharmacy technician in New Mexico?
Yes. Certification is required to work as a pharmacy technician in New Mexico. The most widely accepted certification is through the PTCB.
The New Mexico Board of Pharmacy does allow you to work under a temporary registration without certification, but there are limitations on the tasks you can perform. You must become certified within one year to maintain your license.
How long does it take to become a pharmacy technician in New Mexico?
The timeline depends on the type of training you choose.
- Traditional classroom programs may take up to a year to complete.
- Online, self-paced courses—like the 1st Pass CPhT Course—can be completed in a few weeks to a few months.
How much do pharmacy technicians earn in New Mexico?
Pharmacy technicians in New Mexico earn an average hourly wage of $21.86, though actual pay can vary based on certification status, experience, and location. For more detailed information, check out our New Mexico Pharmacy Technician Salary and Job Outlook Report.
How old do you have to be to become a pharmacy technician in New Mexico?
The New Mexico Board of Pharmacy does not list a minimum age requirement for registration. This means individuals who are 16 or 17 years old may be eligible to apply, as long as they meet all other requirements.
Can I work as a pharmacy technician while still in high school in New Mexico?
Yes. New Mexico does not require a high school diploma or minimum age to become a licensed pharmacy technician. As long as you complete a recognized training program and get certified, you may be eligible to work in a pharmacy—even while still in high school.
Ready to Get Started?
Helpful Reads
State requirements
New Mexico Pharmacy Technician Requirements
Find out how to become a pharmacy technician in New Mexico.
Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirements in
New Mexico
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 only hire the best talent. Certification opens doors to more attractive job opportunities.
How to Become a Certified Pharmacy Technician in
New Mexico
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
-
Work experience alone will not teach you enough to pass the PTCB certification exam. You will still have to study.
-
Certified technicians are offered significantly higher starting wages. Working 500+ hours without being certified can cost you thousands of dollars.
-
Pharmacies that offer better work environments are more selective in their hiring. Being certified gives you access to more desirable jobs.
-
Certified technicians are given priority when scheduling shifts.
-
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.