Virginia Pharmacy Technician Licensing Guide

How to Become a Pharmacy Tech in Virginia (2025 Update)

Learn the exact steps to become a pharmacy technician in Virginia, including PTCB certification, state registration, approved training programs, and exam info.
If you’re looking for a rewarding healthcare career, becoming a pharmacy technician in Virginia is a great choice. Pharmacy technicians are essential members of the pharmacy team. They assist pharmacists with filling prescriptions, managing inventory, processing insurance claims, and ensuring patients receive the medications they need.

To work as a licensed pharmacy technician in Virginia, you must meet specific training and certification requirements set by the Virginia Board of Pharmacy. These requirements were updated in 2025 to reflect national best practices and ensure that all pharmacy technicians are fully prepared for their roles. Effective July 1, 2025, anyone applying for a pharmacy technician license in Virginia must complete an approved training program and pass a national certification exam, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).

Virginia Board of Pharmacy 
Contact Information

Helpful Links

Whether you’re a high school student exploring healthcare careers, a recent graduate, or someone relocating from another state, this step-by-step guide will show you how to become a certified and licensed pharmacy technician in Virginia. You’ll learn how to choose a PTCB-recognized training program, meet Virginia’s education requirements, pass your certification exam, and submit your license application to the state. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to start a meaningful career in one of the fastest-growing fields in healthcare.

Table of Contents

  1. Licensing requirements
  2. Approved training and education options
  3. Understanding the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB)
  4. What is a PTCB-recognized course?
  5. Step-by-step guide to getting licensed in Virginia
  6. A guide for high school students
  7. Frequently Asked Questions

Virginia Pharmacy Technician License Requirements

To work as a pharmacy technician in Virginia, you must hold a state-issued pharmacy technician license. To ensure that all technicians are properly trained and prepared to work safely in pharmacy settings, the Virginia Board of Pharmacy has established specific training and certification requirements.

In 2025, the Virginia legislature updated these requirements, and the changes took effect on July 1, 2025. Below is an overview of the key requirements you’ll need to meet in order to apply.
  • Application and fee
  • Complete an Approved Training Program
    • You must successfully complete a pharmacy technician training program that has been approved by the Virginia Board of Pharmacy.
  • Obtain a Pharmacy Technician Certification
    • To qualify for licensure, you must pass a certification exam offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or another organization approved by the Board.
  • Criminal Background Check
    • A criminal background check is not automatically required for pharmacy technician registration in Virginia. 
    • However, the Virginia Board of Pharmacy reserves the right to conduct a background check on any applicant.
  • Minimum Age
    • There is not minimum age requirement to become registered as a pharmacy technician in Virginia. 
  • Education Requirements
    • Virginia does not require a high school diploma or GED for obtaining a pharmacy technician license. 
    • This means that high school students who are under 18 are eligible to apply and start gaining pharmacy experience before graduation.
You can find the official list of requirements for registration in Virginia Acts of Assembly 2025 Session - Chapter 168.
Temporary License

Pharmacy Technician Trainee

The pharmacy technician trainee license is an entry-level credential that allows you to begin working in a pharmacy while completing your training and preparing for certification. It’s a valuable opportunity to gain real-world experience and apply what you’re learning as you move through your training program.

To qualify, the Virginia Board of Pharmacy requires that you first enroll in a Board-approved pharmacy technician training program. Once enrolled, you can submit your trainee license application—even before completing the program.

As a trainee, you’re allowed to perform the same duties as fully licensed pharmacy technicians, as long as your supervising pharmacist approves. This means you can take on more responsibility as your skills grow, making it an ideal way to build confidence and experience on the job.

Important notes about the trainee license:
  • You can only apply for this registration once. It cannot be renewed, extended, or transferred.
  • Once approved, the license is valid for up to two years.
  • During this period, they should be actively preparing for and passing a Board-approved pharmacy technician certification exam.

How to Register as a Pharmacy Technician Trainee

You can apply for a pharmacy technician trainee license as soon as you enroll in a Board-approved training program—such as the fully online 1st Pass CPhT Course.

Once your application is submitted, the Virginia Board of Pharmacy typically processes trainee licenses within 3–5 business days. After approval, you can start working in a pharmacy and gaining hands-on experience while continuing your education.

Approved Training and Certification Options

To ensure pharmacy technicians are properly trained and prepared to work safely in pharmacy settings, the Virginia Board of Pharmacy requires both formal education and national certification. These standards are designed to promote consistency across the profession and help protect public health. In 2025, the Virginia legislature updated the state’s pharmacy technician requirements to align with national best practices. These changes took effect on July 1, 2025, and apply to all individuals seeking licensure moving forward.

Approved Training Options

Before applying for your pharmacy technician license, you must complete a Board-approved training program. Virginia now offers three pathways to meet this requirement. You must successfully complete one of the following:
  • A training program recognized by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or another organization approved by the Virginia Board of Pharmacy.
  • A program offered through the Department of Education’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) system.
  • A pharmacy technician training program operated by a federal agency or branch of the U.S. military.

Virginia Approved Certification Options

In addition to completing an approved training program, you’ll also need to pass a national pharmacy technician certification exam. Virginia accepts two nationally recognized credentials. You must earn one of the following:
  • Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB)
  • National Healthcareer Association (NHA)

Understanding the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board

The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) is the nation’s leading organization for certifying pharmacy technicians. Founded in 1995, the PTCB was established to advance medication safety and support pharmacy teams by certifying technicians who demonstrate the knowledge and skills needed to perform their roles effectively. Over the years, the PTCB credential has become the industry standard for pharmacy technician certification and is recognized by employers and state boards of pharmacy across the country, including Virginia.

What is the PTCB certification exam?

The PTCB administers the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), which is designed to assess a candidate’s knowledge and skills related to pharmacy practice. The exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions and is completed in two hours. Questions are divided across four main knowledge domains:
  • 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.
The PTCE can be taken at authorized Pearson VUE testing centers or online through remote proctoring. 

PTCB certification exam eligibility

To be eligible to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), you must first complete a PTCB-recognized training program or have equivalent qualifying work experience. However, it’s important to note that most states, including Virginia, require formal training, regardless of work history. Completing a PTCB-recognized program allows you to meet both national and state standards, and it prepares you with the knowledge and skills needed for success on the exam.

After passing the PTCE, you’ll earn the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential. This nationally recognized certification demonstrates that you are competent, qualified, and ready to provide safe and effective patient care. You’ll also be able to proudly use the “CPhT” designation after your name, such as Alex Smith, CPhT, signifying your professional status within the pharmacy field.

In Virginia, earning the CPhT credential is not just a professional milestone, it’s also a licensing requirement. The Virginia Board of Pharmacy requires all pharmacy technicians to hold certification from a recognized organization, and the PTCB’s CPhT credential fully satisfies this requirement. By completing a PTCB-recognized course and passing the PTCE, you’ll be on track to meet both the training and certification requirements for obtaining your Virginia pharmacy technician license.

What is a PTCB-recognized course?

A PTCB-recognized course is a pharmacy technician training program that has been reviewed and approved by the PTCB for meeting the standards necessary to prepare students for certification. These programs cover essential topics in pharmacy operations, medication safety, laws and regulations, and patient care.

A dual benefit: Meets both Virginia and PTCB requirements

If you’re planning to work as a pharmacy technician in Virginia, completing a PTCB-recognized course gives you two major advantages:
  • It fulfills the Virginia Board of Pharmacy’s training requirement, as PTCB-recognized programs are one of the approved pathways listed by the state.
  • It qualifies you to sit for the PTCE, putting you on track to earn your national CPhT credential.


Where to Take a PTCB‑Recognized Course

PTCB-recognized training programs are available in both online and in-person formats, making it easy and convenient to meet Virginia’s pharmacy technician licensing requirements. Our fully online 1st Pass CPhT Course is PTCB-recognized, affordable, and approved to meet Virginia’s training standards. 

How to Become a Certified Pharmacy Technician in Virginia

Earning your pharmacy technician certification in Virginia can lead to greater responsibilities, higher pay, and more career opportunities. Below is the fastest and most efficient path to becoming a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT).
Write your awesome label here.

Step 1: Enroll in a PTCB-recognized training program

To meet Virginia’s licensing requirements, you’ll need to complete a Board-approved training program. One of the easiest and most widely accepted pathways is enrolling in a PTCB-recognized program. Completing a PTCB-recognized course will meet Virginia's pharmacy training requirement, and allow you to sit for the certification exam (another requirement) allowing you to fulfill both requirements in one step.
You can choose from:
  • In-person programs at local community colleges or career centers
  • A fully online, self-paced course such as the 1st Pass CPhT Course, which is both PTCB-recognized and approved in Virginia

Step 2: Apply for your pharmacy technician trainee license (optional)

Once you’ve enrolled in an approved training program, you have the option to apply for a pharmacy technician trainee license. This step is not required, but it allows you to start gaining hands-on experience in a pharmacy while you complete your training.
  • You can submit your trainee license application as soon as you’re enrolled.
  • The Virginia Board of Pharmacy typically processes applications within 3–5 business days. Once approved, you’ll be allowed to begin working under the supervision of a pharmacist and perform the same duties as a fully licensed technician.
  • The trainee license is valid for up to two years. During that time, you must complete your training and pass a Board-approved certification exam.

Step 3: Pass the PTCB certification exam (PTCE)

Once you complete your training, you’ll be eligible to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board.
  • 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 4: Apply for your Virginia pharmacy technician license

After earning your CPhT credential, you can apply for your Virginia pharmacy technician license through the Virginia Board of Pharmacy. To register:

Step 5: Start your career in pharmacy

Once you’re licensed, you’re ready to begin working in a pharmacy. Whether you’re interested in a retail, hospital, or specialty pharmacy setting, having your certification and license in hand gives you a competitive edge.

Employers value pharmacy technicians who are already certified and licensed because it shows commitment, readiness, and professionalism. Being fully qualified can help you get hired faster, start at a higher wage, and take on more responsibilities from day one.

How High School Students Can Become Pharmacy Technicians in Virginia

If you’re a high school student with an interest in healthcare, becoming a pharmacy technician is a great way to get a head start on your career. Working part-time in a pharmacy can give you hands-on experience, build valuable job skills, and introduce you to a wide range of healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, nurses, and physicians. It’s an excellent opportunity to explore future careers in pharmacy, medicine, or any health-related field.

No age or diploma requirement in Virginia

Virginia makes it easy for motivated students to begin their pharmacy journey early. The Virginia Board of Pharmacy does not require a minimum age or high school diploma to become a registered pharmacy technician. As long as you complete the required training and certification, you can apply for licensure, even if you’re still in high school.

The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) also does not have a minimum age or diploma requirement to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE). This means driven students can earn the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential before graduation, setting themselves apart from their peers on college applications.

Why it’s a smart first step toward a healthcare career

Getting certified and working as a pharmacy technician in high school can help you:
  • Develop real-world healthcare skills
  • Gain clinical experience in a pharmacy setting
  • Explore your interests in pharmacy, nursing, or medicine
  • Strengthen college and scholarship applications

High school teen working in a pharmacy.

How PTCB certification can strengthen your college applications

Earning your PTCB certification while still in high school is a powerful way to stand out on college applications. It shows that you’ve taken initiative, followed through on a rigorous goal, and already gained experience in a professional healthcare setting, all qualities that admissions officers look for. Whether you’re applying to pharmacy school, a nursing program, or a pre-med track, having this nationally recognized certification on your application highlights your early commitment to your future career.

It’s more than just a line on your resume, it’s a meaningful achievement you can talk about in essays, interviews, and scholarship applications. It tells a story about who you are: someone focused, motivated, and ready to take on challenges in pursuit of a healthcare career.

How to Get Started

Some high schools in Virginia offer Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs that include pharmacy technician training. If your school has one, that’s a great place to start. But even if it doesn’t, you can still get certified on your own.

Our Virginia pharmacy technician training class is fully online, self-paced, and recognized by the PTCB. Many high school students have completed the course while managing school, sports, and other activities. With 24/7 access, you can study when it works best for you—after school, on weekends, or during breaks.

To get started:

  • Talk to your high school guidance counselor about available resources
  • Enroll in a PTCB-recognized training program like the 1st Pass CPhT Course to start preparing for your certification exam

Frequently asked questions

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

Yes. All pharmacy technicians in Virginia must hold an active license issued by the Virginia Board of Pharmacy. To qualify, you must complete an approved training program and pass a national certification exam.

What are the new Virginia pharmacy technician requirements in 2025?

Effective July 1, 2025, Virginia requires pharmacy technician license applicants to:
  • Complete a PTCB-recognized or another Virginia-approved training program
  • Earn national certification from either the PTCB or the NHA
  • Submit an online license application and pay the required fee

Do I need a high school diploma to become a pharmacy technician in Virginia?

No. Virginia does not require a high school diploma or GED to become a pharmacy technician. Students who are still in high school can qualify, making this a great career option for motivated teens.

How old do I have to be to become a pharmacy technician in Virginia?

Virginia has no minimum age requirement for pharmacy technician licensure. As long as you meet the training and certification requirements, you can apply for a license, even if you’re under 18.

What certification exams are accepted in Virginia?

Virginia accepts certification from two nationally recognized organizations:

The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB)

The National Healthcareer Association (NHA)

Most employers and training programs recommend the PTCB exam, which leads to the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential.

Where can I take a PTCB-recognized training program?

You can take a PTCB-recognized training program online or in person. Options include community colleges, career centers, and fully online programs like the 1st Pass CPhT Course, which meets both PTCB and Virginia requirements.

How long does it take to become a pharmacy technician in Virginia?

The timeline depends on the type of training program you choose. Some in-person programs, such as those offered by community colleges, may take 12 to 18 months to complete. However, if you choose a self-paced online program, you have the flexibility to move at your own speed. Most students finish the 1st Pass CPhT Course in as little as 2 to 3 months, making it one of the fastest ways to meet Virginia’s training and certification requirements.

What is a pharmacy technician trainee license?

The trainee license is optional but lets you start working in a pharmacy while completing your training and preparing for certification. You can apply as soon as you enroll in an approved program. Once approved, it’s valid for up to two years and allows you to perform the same duties as licensed techs under supervision. It cannot be renewed, so be sure to complete your training and pass the certification exam within that time.

Ready to Get Started?

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

Explore more 
Virginia pharmacy technician resources

Browse our complete library of Virginia-specific resources, from licensing and salary data to training options for individual students and employers.

Helpful Reads