New York Pharmacy Technician Licensing Guide

How to Become a Pharmacy Tech in New York

Learn the exact steps to become a pharmacy technician in New York, including PTCB certification, state registration, approved training programs, and exam info.
If you’re interested in becoming a pharmacy technician in New York, it’s important to understand the state’s certification and registration requirements. Pharmacy technicians are an essential part of the healthcare team, working alongside pharmacists to prepare prescriptions, manage medications, and support patient care.

To work legally in this role, you must earn a national pharmacy technician certification—such as the PTCB’s Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential—and register with the New York State Board of Pharmacy.

Whether you’re new to the field or moving from another state, this guide will walk you through the steps to become a registered pharmacy technician in New York. We’ll cover training and certification options, the state registration process, and tips to help you start or grow your career in New York.

New York Board of Pharmacy
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New York Pharmacy Technician Licensing Requirements

To work as a pharmacy technician in New York, you must be registered with the New York State Board of Pharmacy. Before you can begin employment, you’ll need to meet the following licensing requirements:
  • Application and fee
  • Minimum age requirement
    • Applicants must be at least 18 years old to qualify for registration.
  • Education requirements
    • You must have a high school diploma, GED, or 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.
Official licensing requirements are contained in Title 8, Article 137-A, Section 6844 of New York's Education Law.

Certification Requirements for Pharmacy Technicians in New York

To become a registered pharmacy technician in New York, you must first earn a national certification. Certification ensures that all technicians have demonstrated a standardized level of knowledge and skill before entering the workforce.

New York recognizes certifications from nationally accredited organizations. The most widely accepted option is the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), which issues the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential. Other state-approved certifying bodies may also be accepted, but PTCB certification remains the most recognized and preferred pathway for pharmacy technicians in New York.

Pharmacy Technician Certification Board

PTCB Certification Explained

The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) is the leading national organization responsible for certifying pharmacy technicians. It sets standards for pharmacy technician education, training, and certification, which are recognized by most states, including New York. Founded by the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) and other leading pharmacy organizations, the PTCB helps ensure that pharmacy technicians are qualified to support pharmacists and deliver safe, effective patient care.

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

Once certified, you’ll meet the New York Board of Pharmacy’s training and certification requirements and be able to use the CPhT credential (e.g., Alex Smith, CPhT), which is highly respected in the healthcare field. 

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

The PTCE evaluates your knowledge across four key areas of pharmacy practice:
  • Medications
    Covers drug classifications, brand and generic names, indications, common side effects, and proper storage guidelines.
  • Pharmacy laws and requirements
    Assesses knowledge of federal pharmacy laws, regulations, and professional standards.
  • Patient safety and quality assurance
    Focuses on strategies to prevent medication errors, ensure accurate dispensing, and maintain high standards of patient care.
  • Order entry and processing
    Evaluates your ability to accurately interpret prescriptions, enter medication orders, and handle administrative pharmacy tasks.

How to Get a New York Pharmacy Technician License

Getting certified and registered as a pharmacy technician in New York is a straightforward process when you follow the right steps. Thanks to flexible online training options, you can complete your education, earn your certification, and apply for your registration — all from home.
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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 offered at local community colleges, or
  • Flexible online courses 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 sit for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
  • The exam can be taken either online with remote proctoring or in person at an authorized testing center.
  • Once you pass, you will earn the nationally recognized Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential.

Step 3: Register as a Pharmacy Technician

Once you have earned your CPhT credential, you can apply for your pharmacy technician license from the New York Board of Pharmacy. To register:

Step 4: Launch Your Pharmacy Technician Career

When applying for jobs, be sure to highlight that you are already trained, certified and licensed. Employers highly value candidates who are fully qualified, which can help you stand out, secure job offers faster, 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 New York?

Yes. In New York, pharmacy technicians must be registered with the New York State Board of Pharmacy. To qualify for registration, you must earn a national certification from an approved organization such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).

Is certification required to become a pharmacy technician in New York?

Yes. National certification is required to register as a pharmacy technician in New York. The most commonly accepted option is the PTCB’s Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential. You must pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) to earn this certification.

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

A college degree is not required, but if you don't have prior experience working as a pharmacy technician in another state, you must complete a PTCB-recognized training program to qualify for the certification exam. These programs are available online or in person through approved providers.

How much do pharmacy technicians earn in New York?

According to recent data, the average hourly wage for pharmacy technicians in New York is approximately $21.00, though this can vary based on certification status, experience, location, and work setting. 

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

You must be at least 18 years old to apply for pharmacy technician registration in New York.

Ready to Get Started?

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

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