South Carolina Pharmacy Technician Licensing Guide

How to Become a Pharmacy Tech in South Carolina

Step-by-step guide to meeting the South Carolina licensing requirements for pharmacy technicians. 
If you’re considering a career as a pharmacy technician in South Carolina, understanding the state’s licensing requirements is the first step. The South Carolina Board of Pharmacy regulates pharmacy technicians and has specific guidelines you must follow before you can begin working in a pharmacy.

South Carolina recognizes two types of pharmacy technician roles: Pharmacy Technician and State-Certified Pharmacy Technician. Each role has its own qualifications, responsibilities, and career benefits.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to become certified, this guide will walk you through the process of registering as a pharmacy technician in South Carolina, including education requirements, certification options, and how to apply for your license.

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South Carolina Pharmacy Technician Requirements

To work as a pharmacy technician in South Carolina, you must first register with the South Carolina Board of Pharmacy. The state recognizes two distinct license types: Pharmacy Technician and State-Certified Pharmacy Technician. Each role carries different responsibilities and privileges, which are described in the sections below.

Pharmacy Technician Registration Requirements

The Pharmacy Technician designation is considered the entry point into the profession. To become a registered pharmacy technician in South Carolina, you must:
  • Submit an application and fee
    • Complete the South Carolina pharmacy technician registration application.
    • Applications are available online or by mail.
    • Pay the required application fee. As of 2026, the application fee is $56.
  • Verify lawful presence
    • Complete the “Verification of Lawful Presence” affidavit included on page 5 of the application. 
    • This attestation confirms your legal status and eligibility to work in the United States.
  • Provide required identification documents
    • Submit a copy of a valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID)
    • Submit a copy of your social security card.
  • Minimum age requirement
    • South Carolina does not specify a minimum age for pharmacy technician registration.
    • This means individuals under 18 may be eligible registration, making it a great opportunity for those who want early healthcare work experience.
  • Education requirements
    • A high school diploma or GED is not required to register as a pharmacy technician in South Carolina.
    • Individuals who are still in high school or without a diploma are eligible for registration.

South Carolina State-Certified Pharmacy Technician Registration Requirements

The State-Certified Pharmacy Technician license is the advanced level of pharmacy technician registration in South Carolina. To be eligible, you must:
  • Hold an active pharmacy technician license
    • You must first be a registered (non-certified) pharmacy technician in South Carolina and meet all the entry-level requirements listed above.
  • Meet the education requirement
    • You must have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
  • Complete a board-recognized training program
  • Pass a national certification exam
  • Fulfill the experience requirement
    • You must complete 1,000 hours of pharmacy practice under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist.
For the official guidelines, visit the South Carolina Board of Pharmacy’s Pharmacy Technician page.

Difference Between Certified and Non-Certified Pharmacy Technicians in South Carolina

In South Carolina, pharmacy technicians fall into two categories: Registered Pharmacy Technicians and State-Certified Pharmacy Technicians. Both roles support pharmacists and contribute to patient care. However, becoming state-certified allows technicians to take on additional duties, which leads to higher pay and more greater job opportunities.

Here is an outline of the key differences between registered and state-certified pharmacy technicians in South Carolina.

South Carolina Pharmacy Technician

  • Enter patient demographic information into the pharmacy system (e.g., name, date of birth, address, insurance details)
  • Interpret and input prescription orders into the pharmacy system
  • Assist with prescription preparation, including counting, measuring, and labeling medications
  • Assist in compounding prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications under supervision
  • Not permitted to accept verbal prescription orders by phone
  • Not permitted to administer immunizations or vaccines
  • Not allowed to transfer prescriptions to or from another pharmacy
  • Not permitted to verify prescriptions filled by other technicians for administration by a healthcare provider
  • Not permitted to verify the repackaging of medications from bulk to unit-dose

South Carolina Certified Pharmacy Technician

  • Enter patient demographic information into the pharmacy system (e.g., name, date of birth, address, insurance details)
  • Interpret and input prescription orders into the pharmacy system
  • Assist with prescription preparation, including counting, measuring, and labeling medications
  • Assist in compounding prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications under supervision
  • Permitted to accept verbal prescription orders by phone for non-controlled substances
  • Authorized to administer immunizations and vaccines (with proper training and supervision)
  • Permitted to transfer prescriptions between pharmacies
  • Authorized to verify prescriptions filled by other technicians for administration by a healthcare provider
  • Allowed to verify the repackaging of medications from bulk to unit-dose

Pharmacist-to-Technician Ratios in South Carolina

In South Carolina, the Board of Pharmacy sets clear limits on how many pharmacy technicians a pharmacist can supervise at one time. The allowed ratio depends on the certification status of the technicians:
  • A pharmacist may supervise up to four pharmacy technicians, as long as at least two of them are state-certified.
  • If only one technician is certified, the pharmacist may supervise no more than three technicians in total.
  • If none of the technicians are certified, the pharmacist is limited to supervising just two technicians.

These supervision rules have a significant impact on pharmacy operations. Since pharmacists are highly compensated professionals, being able to supervise a larger number of certified technicians helps reduce staffing costs and increase efficiency. Not only can certified technicians be supervised in greater numbers, but they are also able to take on more responsibilities. This makes them very more valuable to the pharmacy team. For this reason, many employers in South Carolina offer substantial pay increases to pharmacy technicians once they become certified.
The scope of duties for both registered pharmacy technicians and state-certified pharmacy technicians is defined in South Carolina Board of Pharmacy Policy and Procedure #140.
Higher Salary and Career Growth

Why Become a Certified Pharmacy Technician in South Carolina

Becoming a state-certified pharmacy technician in South Carolina comes with valuable benefits for both your career and for the pharmacy you work in. Certified technicians are trained to handle more advanced responsibilities, allowing pharmacists to focus on clinical care. Because certified technicians increase operational efficiency and reduce staffing costs, many South Carolina pharmacies prefer to hire certified individuals and are willing to pay more for them.

Here’s why earning your certification is worth it:

  • Expanded Scope of Practice 
    Certified pharmacy technicians can perform additional duties not allowed for non-certified techs, such as taking verbal orders and administering vaccines.
  • Higher Salary Potential 
    Certification increases your value to employers, often resulting in higher pay.
  • Better Job Opportunities 
    Many South Carolina pharmacies prefer to hire certified technicians to improve workflow and supervision ratios.
  • Career Advancement
    Certification opens the door to leadership roles and specialized pharmacy positions.
  • Professional Recognition 
    Being certified demonstrates your dedication, professionalism, and competence to employers and colleagues, and patients.

How to Become a State-Certified Pharmacy Technician in South Carolina

The State-Certified Pharmacy Technician license is the advanced pharmacy technician credential in South Carolina. It comes with increased responsibilities, higher earning potential, and better career opportunities. Below is the fastest and most efficient path to becoming state certified.

Step 1: Enroll in a PTCB-Recognized Training Program

In order to become a South Carolina state certified pharmacy technician, you must complete an approved training program.
  • You can choose from in-person programs at local community colleges
  • Or enroll in a convenient online course from a PTCB-recognized provider like Pharmacy Technician Academy

Step 2: Register as a Pharmacy Technician and Start Working

Although training is required for certification, it’s not required to register as an (uncertified) pharmacy technician in South Carolina. Registering early lets you start working and begin logging the 1,000 hours of supervised experience required for state certification.
  • To register as an uncertified pharmacy technician:
    —Complete the pharmacy technician registration application
    —Pay the $56 registration fee (as of 2026)
    —Complete the “Verification of Lawful Presence” affidavit
    —Submit a copy of your government-issued photo ID and social security card
  • When applying for jobs, let employers know you’re enrolled in a PTCB-recognized program, It shows commitment and will help you get hired faster.

Step 3: Pass the PTCB Certification Exam (PTCE)

Once your training is complete, you’ll be eligible to take the national certification exam offered by the PTCB.
  • Schedule your exam online through the PTCB website
  • The PTCE is administered at Pearson VUE testing centers (1,400+ locations).
  • Pass the PTCE to earn your Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential
  • Keep a copy of your certification for your state-certified license upgrade

Step 4: Upgrade Your Registration to a State-Certified License

After you’ve completed the 1,000 hours of supervised work experience, you’re eligible to upgrade your license. There’s no formal application or fee, but you must mail specific documents to the South Carolina Board of Pharmacy.
Send the following:
  • A copy of your high school diploma, GED, or equivalent
  • A copy of your training program certificate of completion
  • Copy of your current PTCB Certification
  • A notarized affidavit of experience verifying 1,000 hours of pharmacy practice under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist.

Pharmacy Technician Opportunities for High School Students in South Carolina

If you're a high school student interested in healthcare, working part-time as a pharmacy technician is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience early in your career journey. This role allows you to work closely with pharmacists, nurses, physicians, and other healthcare professionals, providing valuable insight into potential careers in pharmacy, medicine, and related fields.

Can You Work as a Pharmacy Technician in High School in South Carolina?

Yes! The South Carolina Board of Pharmacy recognizes the value of early career exposure for high school students and does not specify a minimum age or require a high school diploma to register as a pharmacy technician. This provides a great opportunity for students aged 16 or 17 to gain valuable healthcare experience.

Additionally, the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) also does not have minimum age or diploma requirements for taking the certification exam. Motivated students can earn their Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential before graduating from high school.

A Smart First Step Toward a Healthcare Career

Working as a pharmacy technician in high school helps you:
  • Develop real-world professional skills.
  • Gain practical experience in a clinical healthcare environment.
  • Explore your interest in pharmacy and other healthcare professions.
  • Enhance your college and scholarship applications.

High school students learning how to start a pharmacy technician career in South Carolina

How PTCB Certification Boosts Your College Application

Earning your Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) credential in high school can significantly strengthen your college applications. Certification demonstrates your motivation, discipline, and ability to successfully complete a nationally recognized professional program. These qualities are highly valued by college admissions officers.

Additionally, certification signals your early commitment to a career in healthcare, making your application stand out, particularly if you're applying to pharmacy, nursing, pre-med, or other health-related programs. Having a professional certification on your resume provides a compelling narrative for essays and interviews, showing colleges that you are actively building your future.

How to Become a Pharmacy Technician in High School

Becoming a registered pharmacy technician while still in high school in South Carolina is straightforward:
  • Step 1: Register as a Pharmacy Technician
    • Complete the pharmacy technician registration application through the South Carolina Board of Pharmacy.
    • Provide required identification documents (a valid ID and Social Security card).
    • Complete the “Verification of Lawful Presence” affidavit.
  • Step 2: Enroll in a PTCB-Recognized Course
    • Many PTCB-recognized training programs do not have minimum age or diploma requirements, making them accessible to high school students.
  • Step 3: Find a Part-Time Pharmacy Technician Job
    • Look for pharmacy technician positions in local pharmacies.
    • Inform potential employers that you are enrolled in a certification program. It demonstrates your commitment and increases your hiring prospects.
  • Step 4: Pass the PTCB Certification Exam
    • Upon completing your training, take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
    • Passing the exam awards you the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential, an excellent addition to your college applications.
  • Step 5: Upgrade Your License (Optional)
    • After graduating, turning 18, and completing the required work experience, you're eligible to upgrade your license to a South Carolina State-Certified Pharmacy Technician.
    • This step is optional but offers advantages such as increased responsibilities and better pay. Upgrading is free and straightforward once you've met the necessary requirements.
Becoming a certified pharmacy technician during high school gives you valuable exposure to various healthcare roles and helps you determine if a healthcare career aligns with your future goals.

To get started, speak with your high school guidance counselor about pharmacy technician opportunities and enroll in a PTCB-recognized training program.

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 South Carolina?

Yes. You must register with the South Carolina Board of Pharmacy and receive a pharmacy technician license before you can begin working in a pharmacy.

Is certification required to become a pharmacy technician in South Carolina?

No. Certification is not required to become a registered pharmacy technician. However, if you want to become a State-Certified Pharmacy Technician, you must complete an approved training program, pass the PTCB certification exam, and meet additional requirements such as completing 1,000 hours of supervised work experience.

What’s the difference between a Pharmacy Technician and a State-Certified Pharmacy Technician?

A Pharmacy Technician is considered entry-level and may perform limited duties. A State-Certified Pharmacy Technician has earned national certification, completed an approved training program, and is allowed to perform additional tasks such as receiving verbal orders for non-controlled substances and transferring prescriptions. Certified technicians often earn higher pay and qualify for better job opportunities.

How much do pharmacy technicians earn in South Carolina?

The average hourly wage for pharmacy technicians in South Carolina is around $19.99, though actual pay can vary. State-Certified Pharmacy Technicians typically earn significantly higher wages due to their ability to take on expanded responsibilities.

How old do you have to be to become a pharmacy technician in South Carolina?

South Carolina does not list a minimum age for pharmacy technician registration, meaning students under 18 may be eligible to apply.

Can I work as a pharmacy technician while still in high school in South Carolina?

Yes. High school students can register as pharmacy technicians and begin gaining experience as early as age 16 or 17. Many students begin working part-time in pharmacies while completing school and pursuing national certification through a self-paced online course.

Ready to Get Started?

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

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