How To Get a Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) Certification in Virginia
Step-by-step guide to Virginia CPhT: approved training pathways, PTCB/NHA exams, LARS registration, fees, and renewal/CE requirements.
To work as a pharmacy technician in Virginia, you must meet specific requirements set by the Virginia Board of Pharmacy. Here’s a quick overview:
- Complete an Approved Training Program: Choose a program recognized by the Virginia Board of Pharmacy, such as ASHP/ACPE-accredited courses or Career & Technical Education programs, then pass a PTCB or NHA national certification exam.
- Pass a National Certification Exam: Either the PTCB PTCE or NHA ExCPT is required to earn the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential.
- Register with the Virginia Board of Pharmacy: Submit your application through the LARS system, including proof of training, certification, and a $40 fee.
Starting July 1, 2025, online training programs are approved, making it easier to meet the requirements. Certification fulfills Virginia’s registration requirement, and pharmacy technicians in Virginia had a median annual wage of $44,610 in May 2025 (BLS).
This guide explains the steps, costs, and resources to help you succeed. Keep reading for detailed instructions on training, exams, and registration.
How To Become a Pharmacy Technician Without Going To School
Virginia Pharmacy Technician Licensing Requirements
In Virginia, becoming a pharmacy technician involves three key steps: completing an approved training program, earning a national certification (either the PTCE or ExCPT), and registering through LARS. These requirements, set by the Virginia Board of Pharmacy, ensure a consistent standard of professionalism across the state.
Eligibility Requirements for Virginia Certification
Interestingly, Virginia does not mandate a high school diploma, GED, or a minimum age of 18 for pharmacy technician registration. This flexibility allows even high school students to start their training and explore careers in healthcare early. However, some employers, like UVA Health and Inova, may have stricter requirements regarding age or education. It’s a good idea to check with these institutions before enrolling in a program. Additionally, reviewing the specific regulations from the Virginia Board of Pharmacy will help you understand the formal steps needed for registration.
Virginia Board of Pharmacy Regulations
Starting July 1, 2025, the Board expanded its list of approved training pathways. These now include programs recognized by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Accepted training options range from ASHP/ACPE-accredited programs and Virginia Department of Education Career & Technical Education programs to federal or military training programs and other Board-approved options.
"To be registered as a pharmacy technician, an applicant shall provide evidence of… Completion of a pharmacy technician training program… [and] Successfully having passed a national certification examination administered by PTCB or NHA." – Virginia Administrative Code 18VAC110-21-141
The costs associated with registration are straightforward: $35 for an initial technician registration and $20 for trainee registration. Annual renewals cost $45 and are due by December 31. Additionally, technicians are required to complete 5 contact hours of continuing education each year and maintain an NABP e-Profile ID for renewals.
Step 1: Complete an Approved Training Program
Virginia law (18VAC110-21-141) requires pharmacy technicians to complete a training program that is accredited, approved by the Board, or recognized by PTCB or NHA. These programs are designed to provide the skills and knowledge necessary for handling prescriptions, managing inventory, and ensuring patient care is conducted safely.
Virginia offers five training pathways to fulfill this requirement. These include ASHP/ACPE-accredited programs, Virginia DOE Career & Technical Education programs, federal or military training programs, and other board-approved accreditor programs. Starting in July 2025, Virginia has also included online nationally recognized programs as an approved option.
Virginia-Approved Training Options
The state now allows for fully online training, expanding accessibility. ASHP/ACPE-accredited programs are a more traditional option, typically lasting 12–18 months and costing around $9,300, though some extended programs may cost as much as $23,500.
For high school students or those attending technical centers, Virginia DOE Career & Technical Education programs integrate pharmacy technician training into secondary education. Federal and military training programs also meet Virginia’s standards, offering structured and recognized training.
Some online pharmacy technician programs can be completed in just 2 to 4 months; check that the program meets the Board of Pharmacy’s requirements. These programs are significantly more affordable, with some courses priced as low as $249.99. Whatever pathway you choose, ensure it aligns with Virginia’s Board-approved categories before enrolling.
Among the available options, HealthCareer Certs stands out as a streamlined, fully online program that is listed in PTCB’s Recognized Education/Training Program Directory.
HealthCareer Certs Pharmacy Technician Program
HealthCareer Certs offers a self-paced, fully online Certified Pharmacy Technician program. Its Pharmacy Technician course is listed in PTCB’s Recognized Education/Training Program Directory, one of the training routes Virginia’s regulation (18VAC110-21-141) accepts. The course can be completed in as little as 12 weeks.
The program includes over 1,400 practice questions, 700 self-checks, and interactive tools like 3D demonstrations, quizzes, and flashcards. Course materials are mobile-friendly, allowing you to study on any device. Additionally, personalized one-on-one Zoom sessions with instructors provide tailored support.
One of the program’s key features is its externship placement, giving students hands-on experience that many employers look for. The curriculum covers all the essential topics outlined by the Virginia Board of Pharmacy, including federal and state pharmacy laws, pharmacology, pharmaceutical calculations, and sterile and non-sterile compounding basics. This thorough training not only prepares you for the national certification exam but also equips you for practical pharmacy work in Virginia.
Step 2: Pass a National Certification Exam
To qualify for registration in Virginia, you’ll need to pass a national certification exam. The Virginia Board of Pharmacy recognizes two options: the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCB PTCE) and the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (NHA ExCPT). Both exams award the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential, which will be required in Virginia starting July 1, 2025.
Because Virginia requires a national certification exam for registration, choosing the right exam is key. Your decision might depend on your career goals and the preferences of potential employers. For example, some hospital systems in Virginia, like UVA Health or Inova, often favor the PTCB certification. It’s a good idea to check with employers before deciding. Successfully passing one of these exams confirms your training and prepares you for the next step in your career.
The PTCB PTCE costs $129 and is administered through Pearson VUE testing centers, while the NHA ExCPT is slightly less expensive at approximately $125 and is offered at PSI centers. Both exams also provide online proctoring options for added flexibility.
PTCB PTCE vs. NHA ExCPT: What’s the Difference?
Although both exams lead to the same certification, they differ in their structure, focus, and eligibility requirements. The PTCB PTCE is often considered the preferred option for hospital and clinical settings, while the NHA ExCPT is widely accepted in retail and chain pharmacies.
| Feature | PTCB PTCE | NHA ExCPT |
|---|---|---|
| Administering Body | Pharmacy Technician Certification Board | National Healthcareer Association |
| Exam Duration | 1 hour 50 minutes | 2 hours 10 minutes |
| Number of Questions | 90 (80 scored, 10 unscored) | 120 (100 scored, 20 pretest) |
| Required Work Experience | 500 hours | 1,200 hours |
| Primary Focus | Medications (40%), Safety (26.25%) | Dispensing Process (40%), Laws (25%) |
| Testing Centers | Pearson VUE | PSI Testing Centers |
| Pass Rate (2023) | 69% | 63% |
| Exam Fee | $129 | ~$125 |
The PTCB PTCE exam includes 90 multiple-choice questions and takes 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete. A newer version, introduced on January 6, 2026, incorporates updated question types like drag-and-drop and case-based scenarios. To pass, you’ll need a scaled score of 1,400 on a range from 1,000 to 1,600.
The NHA ExCPT, on the other hand, allows 2 hours and 10 minutes for completion and includes 120 questions (100 scored and 20 pretest) according to published test-plan summaries; confirm in NHA’s current test plan. Its content emphasizes practical skills like the dispensing process and pharmacy laws, making it a solid choice for those aiming to work in retail environments.
"PTCB’s CPhT Program is nationally accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), and is the technician credential pharmacists trust."
- Pharmacy Technician Certification Board
Study Tips and Resources
Success on your certification exam starts with preparation. Begin by identifying areas where you need improvement. Both organizations offer official practice tools: the PTCB provides resources like the "Pre-PTCE" and "PTCE Practice Bank", while the NHA offers a Focused Review and mobile flashcards.
Create a study schedule with manageable daily sessions of 30–45 minutes. For the PTCE, focus on topics like medications and safety, while for the ExCPT, spend more time on dispensing procedures and pharmacy law.
Mix up your study methods to keep things engaging. Many training programs, such as HealthCareer Certs, include exam prep resources like practice tests and self-assessments that simulate the actual exam. Timed practice exams are especially helpful for building stamina and improving time management.
If you’re enrolled in an approved training program, consider applying for a Virginia Pharmacy Technician Trainee registration. For a $30 fee, this registration allows you to gain supervised work experience for up to two years, giving you hands-on experience while you prepare for your certification exam. It’s a great way to build confidence and apply what you’ve learned in a real-world pharmacy setting.
Step 3: Apply for Virginia Pharmacy Technician Registration
Once you’ve passed the exam, the next step is registering with the Virginia Board of Pharmacy through LARS (License Application and Renewal System). This online portal, managed by the Virginia Department of Health Professions, handles all applications. To complete your registration, you’ll need to upload your training certificate, certification exam results, and a passport-sized photo. Additionally, the state requires proof of U.S. citizenship or residency and a criminal background check as part of the process.
The registration fee is $40, payable online using a credit or debit card. Before starting your application, ensure you have digital copies of your high school diploma, training certificate, and exam results. If your Virginia registration expired more than a year ago, you’ll need to apply for reinstatement, which costs $50.
How to Use the LARS System
Here’s how to navigate LARS to complete your application:
- Go to the Virginia Board of Pharmacy’s "Forms and Applications" page and click the link to begin the online application.
- First-time users must create an account. If you’re already registered as a trainee, log in with your existing credentials.
- Choose "Pharmacy Technician" from the list of professions.
- Upload all required documents, including proof of training and your national certification.
- Review your application, then submit the $40 non-refundable fee to finalize it.
If you haven’t passed the certification exam yet, you can still apply for trainee registration to begin working under supervision.
Temporary License for Trainees
For those still in training, the Pharmacy Technician Trainee registration is an option. This registration costs $30 and is valid for up to two years. It allows you to gain practical experience under the direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist. If you decide to stop your training, you must return the registration immediately.
Exam Preparation and Success Tips
Get ready for the 2026 exam blueprint by focusing on Federal Requirements, Order Entry, and DSCSA fundamentals, while keeping in mind that nonsterile compounding questions have been removed. Use this updated scope to fine-tune your study plan.
Key Topics to Study
An 8-week study plan can work well for most candidates. Here’s a suggested breakdown:
- Weeks 1–2: Study the top 200 drugs, therapeutic classes, and proper storage requirements.
- Week 3: Dive into Patient Safety, including error prevention techniques like Tall Man lettering and DUR (Drug Utilization Review) flags.
- Week 4: Focus on DEA schedules, product recalls, and DSCSA traceability rules.
- Week 5: Concentrate on Order Entry, covering topics like SIG decoding and inventory management.
- Week 6: Dedicate this week to math practice. Work on ratio-proportion, dimensional analysis, percent strength, and IV rate calculations. Aim to solve each math problem in 60–75 seconds.
The PTCE consists of 90 multiple-choice questions (80 scored, 10 unscored) with a 110-minute time limit. To pass, you need a scaled score of 1,400 (on a 1,000–1,600 scale). The ExCPT, on the other hand, includes 120 items (100 scored, 20 pretest) with a 2-hour and 10-minute time limit.
To prepare effectively, use official practice resources like the Pre-PTCE and PTCB Practice Bank to simulate real exam conditions. Scheduling your test for the morning and arriving early can help you get comfortable with the testing environment. Keep in mind that only on-screen calculators are guaranteed during the exam. With a structured study plan and practice, you’ll be ready to tackle the exam and move closer to your certification goals.
Virginia-Specific Licensure Tips
Excelling in your exam can also simplify the next step: your Virginia registration. After passing the national exam, promptly link your certification to Virginia’s registration system. Set up your NABP e-Profile ID early, as it’s required for both initial registration and annual renewals.
Virginia mandates 5 contact hours of continuing education each year for state registration renewal, compared to the PTCB’s requirement of 20 hours every two years. Also, remember that Virginia state registration expires every December 31, while national certification renews on a two-year cycle.
If you’re still in training, consider applying for the $30 trainee registration, which allows you to gain up to two years of supervised work experience while preparing for the exam.
Conclusion
Becoming a certified pharmacy technician in Virginia requires three straightforward steps: completing an approved training program, passing a national certification exam (either the PTCE or ExCPT), and registering with the Virginia Board of Pharmacy through the LARS system. Virginia requires registered pharmacy technicians to have completed a recognized training program and passed a national certification examination administered by PTCB or NHA (18VAC110-21-141).
Certification not only meets legal requirements but also opens doors to better pay and career growth. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025), pharmacy technicians in Virginia earned a median annual wage of $44,610 and a mean annual wage of $45,330, with about 10,720 employed. Certification also qualifies technicians for advanced roles, including administering vaccinations, oncology work, and compounding.
"Employers value pharmacy technicians who are already certified and licensed because it shows commitment, readiness, and professionalism." – Pharmacy Technician Academy
Staying certified and registered is essential for long-term success. In Virginia, registration must be renewed annually by December 31, requiring just 5 hours of continuing education each year. This simple renewal process ensures you keep up with industry standards while focusing on career growth.
FAQs
Can I work as a pharmacy tech in Virginia before I’m certified?
No, working as a pharmacy technician in Virginia requires certification. The state mandates that individuals complete an approved training program and pass a national certification exam, like the PTCB or NHA. Virginia’s regulation (18VAC110-21-141) requires both completion of a recognized training program and a passing score on a PTCB or NHA national certification examination before registration, which makes certification essential for anyone pursuing this role in Virginia.
Which exam should I choose for Virginia: PTCE or ExCPT?
In Virginia, aspiring pharmacy technicians have two certification exam options: the PTCE (provided by PTCB) and the ExCPT (offered by NHA). Both the PTCB and the NHA national certification examinations are accepted for pharmacy technician registration in Virginia (18VAC110-21-141). Since both are nationally recognized, pick the one that aligns best with your preparation style and career objectives.
How long does Virginia registration through LARS usually take?
Registration through LARS in Virginia usually takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. The exact processing time depends on factors like how complete your application is and the current workload of the system.
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Shahnaz Ghassemi Ph.D., is a co-founder of HealthCareerCerts and a dedicated educator, scientist, and workforce development leader. She holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry and brings extensive experience as both an educator and a research scientist in industry. As a co-leader of HealthCareerCerts, Shahnaz is deeply committed to making healthcare education accessible through affordable, flexible, and high-quality learning pathways. She works closely with academic institutions, healthcare partners, and workforce organizations to deliver certification programs that are practical, inclusive, and directly aligned with real-world healthcare needs. Since co-founding the organization, she has played a key role in building strategic partnerships that expand impact and opportunity, helping learners across the country gain essential skills, confidence, and meaningful careers in healthcare. Seeing hundreds of students thrive within the supportive learning community she helps lead continues to inspire and drive her mission forward.
