Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) in Minnesota
This guide details the steps to become a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) in Minnesota, outlining a process that involves 600 hours of training, passing a competency exam, and obtaining state certification. The total path duration can range from 4 to 20 weeks depending on the training mode chosen. Key steps include verifying prerequisites, completing training, passing the exam, and registering with the state.
Photo by Jeff Trierweiler on Unsplash
The career of a Pharmacy Technician in Minnesota offers a stable and promising future, with a median salary of $47,100 per year and a projected job growth of 6.4% by 2034. This growth rate, consistent with national trends, points to sustained demand in the healthcare sector. Given the critical role pharmacy technicians play in assisting pharmacists with medication management and customer care, their skills are in increasing demand. This makes the career a sensible choice for those interested in a reliable and fulfilling job in healthcare.
Minnesota presents a unique environment for Pharmacy Technicians due to its specific state regulations and vibrant healthcare industry. The state requires pharmacy technicians to register with the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy, ensuring that all practicing technicians meet essential training standards. Minnesota's healthcare system is robust, featuring major employers such as Mayo Clinic and Fairview Health Services, which provide ample employment opportunities. These factors, combined with Minnesota's commitment to high standards in healthcare, make it an appealing state for pharmacy technicians seeking career stability and advancement.
This guide will equip readers with detailed information on how to become a licensed Pharmacy Technician in Minnesota. It will cover the necessary steps to obtain certification, including the education and training requirements specific to the state. The guide will also offer insights into salary expectations and the job market in Minnesota, helping prospective pharmacy technicians to make informed career decisions. By providing clear, factual information on the pathways to entering this field, the guide aims to serve as a practical resource for anyone considering a career as a Pharmacy Technician in Minnesota.
Licensing Authority
Minnesota Board of Pharmacy
In Minnesota, Pharmacy Technicians must be registered with the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy. The state requires a combination of education, training, and examinations to ensure competency in handling medications and understanding pharmacy operations.
Official Resources
Minnesota Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Total Training Hours
- 600 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 400 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 200 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- Registration with the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy
Certification Exam
- Exam
- ExCPT or PTCB
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- Varies based on exam provider
How to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Minnesota
tuition $500-$2,000, exam fee $129, background check $75, application fee $50, textbooks/supplies $50, scrubs $25
Fastest Path
4-6 weeks
Typical Timeline
8-12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2,500
Verify You Meet Minnesota's Prerequisites
Before starting your journey to become a Pharmacy Technician in Minnesota, ensure you meet the state's prerequisites. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be free from felony convictions. Visit the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy website to review detailed requirements and download any necessary forms. Processing times for verifying prerequisites are typically 1-2 days. Common delays include incomplete forms or missing documentation.
Tip
Order your high school transcript online through Parchment.com ($15) to avoid a 2-week mail delay from your school's registrar office.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
Minnesota requires a comprehensive background check, including FBI fingerprinting, to ensure the safety of pharmacy patients. Schedule an appointment for fingerprinting at an approved LiveScan location. This process typically costs around $75 and takes about 2-3 weeks for results. Disqualifications include certain felony convictions; however, waivers can be applied for in some cases. Health screenings must include a TB test from within the last 12 months.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting appointment early to avoid delays in processing your application.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
To qualify for the Pharmacy Technician certification exam, you must complete a state-approved training program consisting of 400 classroom hours and 200 clinical hours. Use the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy's website to find a list of approved programs. Attending a non-approved program will result in ineligibility to sit for the certification exam, wasting both time and money. Choose a program that fits your schedule and budget.
Tip
Check for programs that offer additional support like tutoring or job placement assistance.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Once you have selected an approved program, enroll and complete the required 600 total hours of training, including 400 classroom hours and 200 clinical hours. This training prepares you for the practical demands of the job and the certification exam. Training costs can range from $500 to $2,000 depending on the institution. Ensure all documentation from your training is kept as you will need this to register for the exam.
Tip
Maintain a record of all training hours and assessments; this documentation will be crucial for exam registration.
Prepare for the Competency Exam
The Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) is administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). The exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions, covering various aspects of pharmacy practices, to be completed in two hours. A passing score is 1400 out of 1600. Preparation materials and practice exams are available on the PTCB website. Register for the exam through the PTCB portal, with an exam fee of $129.
Tip
Utilize the practice exams available on the PTCB website to familiarize yourself with the exam format and question types.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
After preparing for the PTCE, register and schedule your exam through the PTCB website. You can choose a date and testing location convenient for you. Testing centers are located throughout Minnesota and can be searched via the Pearson VUE website. It's advisable to schedule the exam at least 3 weeks in advance to secure your preferred date and location. If you need to reschedule, do so at least 24 hours before the exam to avoid additional fees.
Tip
Check for available dates and locations periodically if your first choice is not available.
Take and Pass the Exam
On the day of the exam, arrive at the testing center early with two forms of ID and be prepared to adhere to all testing protocols. The PTCE lasts two hours and covers a range of topics necessary for pharmacy work. If you fail the exam, you can retake it after 60 days, up to four times in a year. The retake fee is the same as the initial exam fee.
Tip
Arrive early to allow time for check-in procedures and to relax before starting the exam.
Apply for State Certification/Registry
After passing the PTCE, apply for your Pharmacy Technician certification through the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy. The application fee is $50, and you must submit proof of training completion, exam results, and background check clearance. Processing time for applications is typically 2-4 weeks. Once approved, your certification will appear in the Minnesota state registry, which employers will check to verify your credentials.
Tip
Ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays in processing your application.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your Pharmacy Technician certification from the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy. This certification is typically mailed to you within 4-6 weeks after approval. Verify your certification status on the Minnesota state registry website to ensure it is correctly listed. This verification is crucial as employers will check this registry before hiring.
Tip
Regularly check the mail and the state registry to confirm the status of your certification.
Find Your First Job
With your certification in hand, you can now start your job search as a Pharmacy Technician. Utilize online job boards such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn to find openings in Minnesota. Additionally, local pharmacies often post job openings directly on their websites. Prepare your resume highlighting your certification, training, and any relevant experience. Consider negotiating your salary based on the average pay for Pharmacy Technicians in Minnesota, which is typically around $17 per hour.
Tip
Tailor your resume for each application to highlight relevant skills and experiences that meet the job requirements.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training at Retail Pharmacies
Some large retail pharmacies offer employer-sponsored training programs for Pharmacy Technicians. These programs are often paid and can lead directly to employment at the completion of training. Walgreens and CVS are examples of companies that frequently run these programs in Minnesota.
Best for: Individuals looking for direct employment opportunities and on-the-job training
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Minnesota Board of Nursing approved list. You will complete the program but be unable to sit for the state competency exam, wasting both your time and tuition money.
What to Expect on Exam Day
Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) administered by Pearson VUE
Written Test
Questions: 90
Time Limit: 2 hours
Format: Multiple choice
Passing Score: Scaled score of 1,400
- • Medications (40%)
- • Federal Requirements (12.5%)
- • Patient Safety and Quality Assurance (26.25%)
- • Order Entry and Processing (21.25%)
Skills Test
Skills Tested: None
Time Per Skill: N/A
The PTCE does not include a skills assessment; it is entirely a written exam.
What to Bring
- ✓ Two forms of identification: one government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport) and one secondary ID (credit card, debit card).
- ✓ Confirmation number received after scheduling the exam.
- ✓ Required face mask if mandated by local health guidelines.
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal items such as mobile phones, bags, watches, and study materials.
- ✗ Food or drink.
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes approximately 15 minutes. Written test lasts 2 hours. There is no break as there is no skills test.
Getting Your Results
Results are typically available within two to three weeks via the Pearson VUE online portal. Candidates will receive an email notification when results are available.
If You Don't Pass
Candidates can retake the exam after 60 days from the previous attempt. The cost for each retake is the same as the initial exam fee. There is no limit to the number of retakes allowed in Minnesota.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Focus on the major topics with higher percentage weights, especially medications and patient safety.
- 2. Practice time management to ensure all questions are answered within the 2-hour limit, aiming to spend about 1 minute per question.
- 3. Use process of elimination on multiple-choice questions to narrow down choices.
- 4. Review federal pharmacy regulations thoroughly, as these are critical to passing the exam.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED
From previously attended high school or GED program · Varies · 1-4 weeks
Required for enrollment in most training programs
Background Check
Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension · Approximately $20 · 1-2 weeks
Ensure no disqualifying criminal history
Immunization Records
Personal physician or health department · May vary · 1-3 weeks
Necessary for clinical rotations; include MMR, Hepatitis B, Varicella, and Tdap
Tuberculosis Test
Local clinic or health provider · Approximately $30 · 1-3 days
Required by most training programs and clinical sites
CPR Certification
American Red Cross or American Heart Association · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies; typically one full day
Must be healthcare provider level
2During Training
Enrollment Verification
From the pharmacy technician training program · No cost · Immediate to 1 week
Needed for some externships and for sitting the exam
Liability Insurance
Through training program or a third-party provider · Approximately $30-$50 annually · Immediate upon payment
Required for practical training or internships
Progress Reports
From the pharmacy technician training program · No cost · End of each term
Useful for personal tracking and necessary for some externship applications
3For the Exam
Exam Application
Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) website · Application fee of approximately $129
Must be filled out and submitted to schedule the certification exam
Proof of Training Completion
From the pharmacy technician training program · No cost
Required to sit for the certification exam
Government-Issued Photo ID
Already obtained (e.g., driver's license, passport) · No additional cost
Needed for identity verification on the day of the exam
4For Certification
Certification Exam Results
Provided by PTCB post-exam · No additional cost
Official results needed for state registration
State Pharmacy Technician Registration Application
Minnesota Board of Pharmacy website · Registration fee of approximately $70
Required to legally work as a Pharmacy Technician in Minnesota
Continuing Education Records
From CE providers · Varies by provider
Necessary for renewal of certification, typically every two years
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your certification status on the PTCB website. Ensure your certificate is mailed to you by confirming your address. Update your resume to include your new CPhT status.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Indeed.com, LinkedIn, and the Minnesota Pharmacists Association job board
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Retail pharmacies (e.g., CVS, Walgreens) offer structured training programs. Hospitals and clinics provide opportunities for more diverse duties and can lead to specialization.
Resume Tip: Highlight any relevant coursework, internships, or volunteer work. Include soft skills like communication and attention to detail, and emphasize your certification prominently.
Interview Tip: Expect questions about customer service experiences, handling stress, attention to detail, and your understanding of pharmacy operations. Prepare to discuss how you would handle a dispensing error or a difficult customer.
Expected First-Year Salary
Typically, entry-level Pharmacy Technicians in Minnesota earn between $33,000 and $40,000 annually.
Career Advancement Path
Certified Compounded Sterile Preparation Technician (CSPT)
Additional coursework and passing the CSPT exam
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Managing high work volumes with accuracy, dealing with difficult customers, and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of drug information. Effective time management and continuous learning are key to overcoming these challenges.
Pharmacy Technician Salary in Minnesota
In Minnesota, Pharmacy Technicians earn a median annual salary of $47,100, which is significantly higher than the national median of $40,300. This indicates a robust job market for Pharmacy Technicians in the state.
Entry Level
$32,720
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$47,100
$22.64/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$57,130
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$40,300 national · ++16.9% in Minnesota
Salary by Metro Area
Highest concentration of Pharmacy Technicians in the state.
Slightly below state median but competitive.
Close to state median, influenced by major medical centers.
Salary by Employer Type
Minnesota's cost of living is generally aligned with the national average, making the higher salaries for Pharmacy Technicians more favorable.
Benefits & Compensation
Typical benefits include health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, and continuing education opportunities.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth for Pharmacy Technicians in Minnesota is expected to align with national healthcare employment trends, showing moderate increases.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Highlight any specialized skills or certifications.
- •Discuss the breadth of your experience in various pharmacy settings.
Job Market in Minnesota
In Minnesota, the job market for Pharmacy Technicians is aligning closely with national trends, showing a steady demand influenced by an aging population and increased health care needs. The state's growth rate is projected to mirror the national average of 6.4% from 2024 to 2034. Factors such as the expansion of health services and the presence of major health care providers like Mayo Clinic bolster local demand.
Top Hiring Areas
Major medical centers and pharmacies
Influence of Mayo Clinic
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall
Opportunities
- Advancement into specialized roles within healthcare systems
- Potential for job growth in biotechnology and research sectors
Challenges
- Keeping pace with rapidly changing pharmaceutical regulations
- Integration of technology in pharmacy practice
Training Programs in Minnesota
Minnesota offers a variety of Pharmacy Technician training programs through community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored programs. These programs are designed to prepare students for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) and a successful career in pharmacy services.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 6 to 12 months | $2,500 to $5,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 6 to 9 months | $3,000 to $10,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Variable, typically 3 to 6 months | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Saint Paul, Minnesota
High pass rates and strong local industry connections
Brooklyn Park, Minnesota
Comprehensive support services for students
Online & Hybrid Options
Many community colleges offer hybrid formats, combining online coursework with required in-person labs or clinical experiences.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify the program's accreditation status and exam pass rates.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Pharmacy Technician program info for Minnesota
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
$50
CE Hours
20 hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Medication safety, Pharmacy law
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Minnesota does not offer direct reciprocity for Pharmacy Technicians from other states. Instead, out-of-state Pharmacy Technicians must meet specific Minnesota requirements to register.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Complete a Minnesota Board of Pharmacy approved training program or equivalent as determined by the Board.
- Pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT).
State Agreements
Minnesota does not have reciprocity agreements with any states for Pharmacy Technicians.
Additional Exams
Yes, out-of-state applicants must pass the PTCE or ExCPT if they have not done so already.
Application Process
Submit an application to the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy, include proof of certification, complete a criminal background check, and pay the required fees.
Fees
Application fee varies, typically around $50; criminal background check fee is additional.
Processing Time: Applications are usually processed within 2-4 weeks.
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents, especially proof of training and education, are in order before submission to avoid delays.
Keep track of continuing education credits throughout the licensure period to ensure compliance at renewal.
Recommended Resources
PTCB Exam Study Guide
This guide includes practice questions and detailed answer explanations, designed to prepare candidates thoroughly for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam.
Mosby's Review for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination
Mosby's guide provides a comprehensive review of all areas covered on the exam and includes practice test questions.
Pharmacy Technician Certification Study Guide and
This study guide offers a complete review of all the material on the certification exam, including medication order entry and fill process, maintaining medication and inventory control systems.
Secrets of the PTCB Exam Study Guide
This guide breaks down the most intricate concepts in pharmacy technology into understandable parts and includes practice exam questions and test-taking strategies.
Counting Trays and Spatulas
These tools are essential for accurately counting and handling medications during training and in practice.
Mortar and Pestle
Used for compounding medications, a fundamental skill for pharmacy technicians.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-08
- Minnesota Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-08
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-08