Oregon Pharmacy Technician Licensing Guide

How to Become a Pharmacy Tech in Oregon

A clear, step-by-step guide to meeting Oregon's pharmacy technician licensing requirements and starting your career.
If you’re thinking about a career as a pharmacy technician in Oregon, understanding the state’s licensing requirements is the first step. The Oregon Board of Pharmacy oversees pharmacy technician registration and certification, and you’ll need to meet specific requirements before you can start working in a pharmacy setting.

Oregon recognizes two types of pharmacy technicians: Pharmacy Technician (PT) and Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician (COPT). Each role has its own requirements and career benefits.

Whether you’re new to the field or ready to become certified, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, including Oregon’s education and certification requirements, application steps, and how to move from a Pharmacy Technician (PT) to a Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician (COPT).

Oregon Board of Pharmacy
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Oregon Pharmacy Technician Requirements

To begin working as a pharmacy technician in Oregon, you must first register with the Oregon Board of Pharmacy. The state recognizes two license types:
  • Pharmacy Technician (PT) – Entry-level registration for those new to the profession.
  • Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician (COPT) – An advanced designation for technicians who have passed a national certification exam.

Each license type has different qualifications and opportunities for career growth.

Pharmacy Technician Registration Requirements

The Pharmacy Technician license is Oregon’s entry-level designation. To become registered, you must:
  • Submit an application and fee
    • Complete the Oregon pharmacy technician registration application.
    • All applications must be submitted online.
    • Application instructions can be found on the Oregon Board of Pharmacy website.
    • Pay the required application fee. As of 2025, the application fee is $100.
  • Undergo a national fingerprint background check
    • A background check is required for all applicants.
    • The fee is $45.
    • Having a prior offense does not automatically disqualify you. Cases are reviewed individually.
  • Provide required identification documents
    • Submit a copies of your Oregon-issued photo ID and your birth certificate
    • A 2x2" passport-style photo taken within the last six months.
  • Minimum age requirement
    • Oregon requires that all pharmacy technicians be at least 18 years old.
  • Education requirements
    • All applicants must hold a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent. 

Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician (COPT) Registration Requirements

The Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician (COPT) license is for pharmacy technicians who have passed a national certification exam and wish to advance in their careers. To become a Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician, you must:
  • Meet all requirements listed above
    • To register as a Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician, you must meet all requirements listed above.
  • Pass a national certification exam
  • Submit proof of certification
    • Upload a copy of your PTCB certification as part of your application.
For full application details and official requirements, visit the Oregon Board of Pharmacy’s Pharmacy Technician (PT) and Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician (COPT) application instructions.

Why Become a Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician (COPT)?

Becoming a Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician (COPT) license can unlock significant career benefits. While the entry-level PT registration allows you to start working in a pharmacy, earning your COPT credential can help you stand out in a competitive job market and grow faster in your career.

Key Benefits of COPT License

Higher Earning Potential

Certified pharmacy technicians earn more than their non-certified peers. Employers value the added knowledge, skills, and professionalism that come with certification.

Better Job Opportunities

Many pharmacies, especially those focused on quality care and employee development, prefer to hire certified technicians. COPT status can make you eligible for more desirable positions.

Increased Job Security

In competitive markets or healthcare systems where certification is required, COPT license holders are more likely to be prioritized for hiring and long-term positions.

Professional Recognition

Holding a Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician license shows that you’ve met national certification standards and demonstrates your competence to pharmacists, healthcare teams, and patients.
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Pharmacy Technician Certification Board

What is a PTCB Certification?

To apply for your Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician (COPT) license, you must provide proof of national certification with your application to the Oregon Board of Pharmacy.

The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) is a nationally recognized organization that certifies pharmacy technicians. If you’re new to the field and don’t have pharmacy experience, you’ll need to complete a PTCB-recognized training program and pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) to earn your certification. Both the training and the exam are available online, making the process flexible and accessible.

Becoming PTCB certified not only qualifies you for Oregon’s COPT license—it also earns you the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential, a respected designation that is recognized by employers, healthcare professionals, and pharmacy boards across the country. This can be especially valuable if you plan to move or work in another state.

What’s on the PTCB Certification Exam?

The PTCE assesses your pharmacy knowledge across four key areas:
  • Medications
    Drug classifications, brand and generic names, indications, common side effects, and proper storage.
  • Pharmacy laws and regulations
    Federal regulations, legal requirements, and standards that govern pharmacy practice.
  • Patient safety and quality assurance
    Best practices for medication safety, error prevention, and maintaining a high standard of care.
  • Order entry and processing
    Read and interpret prescriptions, input medication orders, and carry out essential pharmacy tasks.

How to Become a Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician

Becoming a Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician (COPT) is now more accessible than ever. The primary difference between Oregon’s standard Pharmacy Technician (PT) license and the COPT license is earning a national certification—and with flexible online options, the process is both convenient and affordable.

Follow These 3 Steps to Become a Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician:

Step 1: Complete a PTCB-Recognized Training Program

If you’re new to the pharmacy field, the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) requires you to complete a recognized training program before you can take the certification exam.
You have two options:
  • Enroll in an in-person program through a local community college
  • Choose a flexible and affordable online course from a PTCB-recognized training provider like Pharmacy Technician Academy

Step 2: Pass the PTCB Certification Exam (PTCE)

Once you complete your training, you’ll be eligible to sit for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
  • You can take the exam online with remote proctoring or in person at a testing center
  • Passing the PTCE earns you the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential—a nationally recognized certification that meets Oregon’s requirements for the COPT license.

Step 3: Apply for Your COPT License

After earning your CPhT certification, you can apply for your Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician license through the Oregon Board of Pharmacy. Here’s what you’ll need to complete your application:
  • Submit your application online
  • Provide a valid government-issued photo ID and a recent passport-style photo
  • Complete a criminal background check
  • Upload a copy of your PTCB certification

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 to go to school to become a pharmacy technician in Oregon?

No, a college degree or traditional classroom education is not required. However, if you don’t have prior pharmacy experience and want to become a Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician (COPT), you’ll need to complete a PTCB-recognized training program before taking the certification exam.

Do I need to be certified to work as a pharmacy technician in Oregon?

No, you can start working as a pharmacy technician in Oregon with a standard Pharmacy Technician (PT) registration. However, earning national certification and applying for the Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician (COPT) license allows you to take on more responsibilities and qualify for higher-paying roles.

What’s the difference between a Pharmacy Technician (PT) and a Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician (COPT)?

The main difference is national certification. A PT is entry-level, while a COPT has passed a national certification exam like the PTCB exam and submitted proof to the Oregon Board of Pharmacy. Certified technicians often earn more and have access to better job opportunities.

How long does it take to become a Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician?

It depends on the training path you choose. Self-paced, online PTCB-recognized programs can typically be completed in 2 to 3 months, while in-person options at community colleges may take longer. Once you meet the requirements and apply, the Oregon Board of Pharmacy generally processes applications quickly.

How much do pharmacy technicians earn in Oregon?

Pharmacy technician salaries in Oregon vary based on experience, certification, and location. On average, pharmacy technicians in Oregon earn around $21.92 per hour. Certified technicians typically earn significantly more. 

Is there a minimum age to become a pharmacy technician in Oregon?

Yes. You must be at least 18 years old to register as a pharmacy technician with the Oregon Board of Pharmacy.

Do I need a high school diploma to be a pharmacy technician in Oregon?

Yes. To register as a pharmacy technician in Oregon, you must have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent.

However, the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) does not require a diploma or minimum age to take the PTCE certification exam. This means high school students can complete a PTCB-recognized training program and pass the exam before graduation.

If you’re planning to pursue a healthcare career—such as becoming a pharmacist, physician, or nurse—earning your CPhT credential while still in high school is a great way to strengthen your college application. It also puts you on track to apply for Oregon’s COPT license as soon as you graduate.

Ready to Get Started?

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

Helpful Reads

State requirements

Oregon Pharmacy Technician Requirements

Find out how to become a pharmacy technician in Oregon.
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Becoming a  Pharmacy Technician in
Oregon

All individuals looking to work in a pharmacy in Oregon need to be licensed with the Board of Pharmacy. Oregon has a two tier pharmacy technician licensing system. The state recognizes Pharmacy Technicians (PT) and Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technicians (COPT) as two separate roles. The requirements for the positions are similar, with the difference highlighted in bold.

How to Register as a Pharmacy Technician (PT)

To register as a pharmacy technician, an applicant must:
  • Submit an online application and pay a registration fee. For 2025, the fee is $100.
  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Submit to a criminal background check and pay the required fee. For 2025, the fee is $45.
  • Personal identification document or proof of identity such as state-issued driver's license or a US passport. 
  • Submit a 2x2 inch passport-style photo taken within the past 6 months.
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How to Register as a Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician (COPT)

To register as a certified pharmacy technician, an applicant must:
  • Submit an online application and pay a registration fee. For 2025, the fee is $100.
  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Submit to a criminal background check and pay the required fee. For 2025, the fee is $46.25.
  • Personal identification document or proof of identity such as state-issued driver's license or a US passport. 
  • Submit a 2x2 inch passport-style photo taken within the past 6 months.
  • Submit a copy of a national certification obtained from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or another board-approved agency.
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Official text on Pharmacy Technician (PT) and Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician (COPT) licensing requirements can be found in the Oregon Administrative Rules Chapter 855-025-0005.

Benefits of Certification

According to the Oregon Board of Pharmacy "the purpose of the Pharmacy Technician (PT) license is to provide an opportunity for an individual to obtain competency in the role as a Pharmacy Technician. This license will allow an individual time to take and pass a national pharmacy technician certification examination, which is required to be eligible for licensure as a Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician (CPT)." Certified pharmacy technicians typically:

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.
More information regarding the purpose of the Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician and Pharmacy Technician roles can be found on the Oregon Board of Pharmacy Division 25 Summary Page.

The Preferred Method of Becoming a Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician

The fastest and most cost-effective method to become a Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician is to:

  1. Complete a PTCB approved course such as 1st Pass CPhT Course
  2. Pass the national PTCB Certification exam
  3. Submit your PTCB certificate along with your Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician (COPT) application.

PTCB Certification Requirements

To become a certified pharmacy technician you must meet the following criteria
Click here for a full set of guidelines from the PTCB.

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.

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.

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.

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