PTCB vs ExCPT Certification: Which Exam Should You Take?
Compare PTCB and ExCPT pharmacy technician certifications. Learn about exam differences, costs, eligibility, and which certification employers prefer.
Two Paths to Pharmacy Technician Certification
Pharmacy technicians in the United States have two nationally recognized certification options: the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), and the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Both certifications demonstrate competency and qualify technicians to use the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) designation.
Choosing between these two certifications is an important decision that can affect your career opportunities, employer preferences, and professional development. This comprehensive comparison will help you make an informed choice.
PTCB Certification Overview
About the PTCE Exam
The PTCE is the more widely recognized of the two certification exams. Established in 1995, PTCB has certified over 900,000 pharmacy technicians nationwide. The exam covers four knowledge domains: medications (40%), federal requirements (12.5%), patient safety and quality assurance (26.25%), and order entry and processing (21.25%).
- 90 questions total: 80 scored and 10 unscored pilot questions
- 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete the exam
- Computer-based testing at Pearson VUE test centers
- Passing score: scaled score of 1400 out of 1600
- Exam fee: approximately $129
- Results available within 1 to 3 weeks
PTCB Eligibility Requirements
As of 2020, PTCB requires candidates to complete a PTCB-recognized education or training program before taking the exam. Acceptable pathways include completing an accredited pharmacy technician education program (ASHP/ACPE accredited) or completing an employer-based training program that meets PTCB requirements. A high school diploma or equivalent is also required.
ExCPT Certification Overview
About the ExCPT Exam
The ExCPT is administered by the National Healthcareer Association and has been available since 2005. While less widely known than the PTCB, it is recognized in most states as a valid pharmacy technician certification. The exam tests three major content areas: pharmacy regulations and technician duties (25%), drugs and drug therapy (25%), and dispensing process (50%).
- 100 scored questions plus 20 pretest questions (120 total)
- 2 hours and 10 minutes to complete the exam
- Computer-based testing at PSI testing centers
- Passing score: 390 out of 500
- Exam fee: approximately $117
- Results available immediately after testing
ExCPT Eligibility Requirements
The ExCPT has slightly different eligibility requirements. Candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent and must have completed a pharmacy technician training program or have at least one year of pharmacy technician work experience. The experience-based pathway provides an alternative for technicians who have learned on the job without formal schooling.
Key Differences Between PTCB and ExCPT
Employer Recognition
PTCB certification is more widely recognized and preferred by employers across the country. Major pharmacy chains like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid typically prefer or require PTCB certification. Hospital pharmacies and health systems also tend to favor PTCB-certified technicians. While ExCPT is accepted by many employers, PTCB generally provides broader career opportunities.
State Board Recognition
Most state boards of pharmacy accept both PTCB and ExCPT certification. However, some states specifically require PTCB certification. Before choosing an exam, check your state board of pharmacy's requirements to ensure your chosen certification will be accepted for licensure or registration in your state.
Recertification Requirements
Both certifications require renewal every two years. PTCB requires 20 continuing education (CE) hours per recertification cycle, including at least one hour in pharmacy law and one hour in patient safety. The recertification fee for PTCB is approximately $49. ExCPT also requires 20 CE hours every two years, with a recertification fee of approximately $49.
Advanced Certifications
PTCB offers additional specialty certifications beyond the basic CPhT credential. These include the Certified Compounded Sterile Preparation Technician (CSPT), the Advanced Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT-Adv), and the Assessment-Based Certificate programs in areas like medication history and technician product verification. These advanced credentials are available only through PTCB and can enhance career advancement opportunities.
Which Certification Should You Choose?
For most pharmacy technicians, PTCB certification is the recommended choice. It offers broader employer recognition, more advanced certification options, and is accepted in all 50 states. The PTCB credential also carries more prestige within the pharmacy profession and provides clearer pathways for career advancement.
However, ExCPT may be a good option if you have work experience but no formal training program, if your state accepts ExCPT and your employer does not have a preference, or if you prefer to have immediate test results. Consider your career goals, your state's requirements, and potential employer preferences when making your decision.
Preparing for Either Exam
Regardless of which certification you pursue, thorough preparation is essential. Use practice exams, study guides, and review courses specific to your chosen exam. Both exams test foundational pharmacy knowledge, so building a strong understanding of medications, pharmacy law, and pharmacy operations will serve you well on either test and throughout your career.
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