Pharmacy Technician Certification in North Dakota
This guide outlines the steps to become a certified Pharmacy Technician in North Dakota, detailing a process that typically spans 8-12 weeks. The total cost ranges from $800 to $2,500, covering prerequisites verification, training, exams, and state registration. Key steps include completing specific training hours, passing a competency exam, and registering with the state board.
In North Dakota, the career of a Pharmacy Technician is a promising choice due to the marked demand and growth in the healthcare sector. With a median salary of approximately $47,540 per year and a projected national growth rate of 6.4% by 2034, this role presents not only stability but also opportunities for advancement. The state's healthcare system relies significantly on Pharmacy Technicians, making it a critical component in delivering efficient medical services to its residents. This growing demand underscores the importance of skilled technicians in maintaining the health standards of the community.
North Dakota offers a unique environment for Pharmacy Technicians due to specific state regulations and a diverse healthcare landscape. The state mandates formal certification for Pharmacy Technicians, which assures a standard of professional competence across its healthcare facilities. Major healthcare employers in the region, such as Sanford Health and Essentia Health, are constantly in search of qualified individuals, influenced by regional health needs including rural healthcare delivery. These factors make North Dakota an attractive state for those looking to enter this field, providing a stable career with the potential for growth within local and regional healthcare systems.
This guide will provide readers with detailed information on how to become a certified Pharmacy Technician in North Dakota. It outlines the necessary steps for obtaining certification, including education requirements, examination processes, and continuing education. Additionally, the guide offers insights into salary expectations and the job market, helping prospective Pharmacy Technicians understand what to expect in terms of compensation and employment opportunities. By furnishing this information, the guide aims to equip readers with the knowledge needed to pursue a career as a Pharmacy Technician in North Dakota effectively.
Licensing Authority
North Dakota Board of Pharmacy
In North Dakota, pharmacy technicians must be certified through the North Dakota Board of Pharmacy. The certification process includes completing a board-approved training program, passing an examination, and meeting background check requirements.
Official Resources
North Dakota 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 North Dakota Board of Pharmacy
Certification Exam
- Exam
- PTCE or ExCPT
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- Varies by exam provider
How to Become a Pharmacy Technician Certification in North Dakota
tuition $500-$2000, exam fee $129, background check $45, application fee $60, textbooks/supplies $50-$300, scrubs $16
Fastest Path
8 weeks
Typical Timeline
12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2500
Verify You Meet North Dakota's Prerequisites
Begin by confirming you meet the basic requirements to become a Pharmacy Technician in North Dakota. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be free of felony convictions. Visit the North Dakota Board of Pharmacy website to download the checklist for prerequisites and read through the detailed requirements. This initial verification is crucial to ensure eligibility before you invest time and money into the certification process.
Tip
Keep digital copies of your high school diploma or GED for easy access during future steps.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
Schedule a background check through the North Dakota Attorney General's website, which includes an FBI fingerprint check. You will need to visit a local police station for fingerprinting, which can be located via the ND Attorney General's site. Additionally, complete required health screenings, including a TB test, which must be performed by a licensed healthcare provider. Results from these checks and screenings can take up to 4 weeks to process.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting appointment early to avoid delays.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Identify a state-approved Pharmacy Technician training program in North Dakota by visiting the North Dakota State Board of Pharmacy's official website. Ensure the program meets the required 400 classroom hours and 200 clinical hours. Attending a non-approved program will disqualify you from sitting for the certification exam. Review program details, costs, and durations to find the best fit for your schedule and budget.
Tip
Compare multiple programs for cost-effectiveness and schedule flexibility.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Once you have chosen a program, enroll and complete the required 600 hours of training, including 400 classroom hours and 200 clinical hours. This training is crucial to prepare you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE). Keep a record of your attendance and performance as this will be required when applying for the certification exam. Programs typically offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate working students.
Tip
Ensure the program provides documentation of completed hours for certification purposes.
Prepare for the Competency Exam
Prepare for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) by reviewing the study materials provided by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). Utilize practice exams and study guides available on the PTCB website. The PTCE consists of 90 multiple-choice questions, covering various aspects of pharmacy tech duties, and must be completed within two hours. A passing score is 1,400 on a scale of 1,000 to 1,600.
Tip
Focus on areas of weakness indicated by practice exam results to improve your score.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
Register for the PTCE on the PTCB website, ensuring all prerequisites are met and your training program completion has been documented. The exam fee is $129, payable online during registration. After registration, schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center convenient to you. Exam dates are available throughout the year, but it's advisable to schedule as soon as possible to secure your preferred date.
Tip
Check for available exam dates while registering to plan your study schedule accordingly.
Take and Pass the Exam
On the day of the exam, arrive at the Pearson VUE testing center with two forms of ID and your PTCE confirmation notice. The exam is computer-based and lasts two hours. If you fail, you can retake the exam after 60 days, up to four times in one year. A detailed score report is available immediately after the exam, which will indicate if you passed or failed.
Tip
Arrive at least 30 minutes early to the testing center to complete necessary pre-exam procedures.
Apply for State Certification/Registry
After passing the PTCE, apply for your Pharmacy Technician certification through the North Dakota Board of Pharmacy. Complete the application form available on their website, attach proof of passing the PTCE, and pay the application fee of $60. Processing times can vary, but typically, it takes 2-4 weeks to receive your certification. This certification must be renewed biennially.
Tip
Ensure all sections of the application are filled out completely to avoid delays.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is processed and approved, your Pharmacy Technician Certification will be issued by the North Dakota Board of Pharmacy. You can verify your certification status online through the state's pharmacy technician registry. This verification is essential as employers will check this registry prior to employment.
Tip
Regularly check the registry until your certification appears to confirm its status.
Find Your First Job
With your certification in hand, begin your job search by visiting job boards such as Indeed, Monster, or specialized pharmacy tech job forums. Many employers also list openings directly on their websites. Prepare your resume to highlight your certification and any practical experience gained during your clinical hours. Networking with professionals in the field during your training can also lead to job opportunities.
Tip
Tailor your resume for each job application to better align with the employer's requirements.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training
Some pharmacies offer employer-sponsored training programs that may pay for your education and guarantee a job upon completion. These programs are typically found in larger retail pharmacies and hospital systems in North Dakota.
Best for: Individuals looking for a direct path to employment with minimal upfront costs
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the North Dakota 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 1400
- • 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
N/A
What to Bring
- ✓ Two forms of identification, one with a photograph
- ✓ Authorization to Test letter (ATT)
- ✓ Non-programmable calculator
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal items including mobile phones, bags, and books
- ✗ Food or drink
- ✗ Notes or study materials
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes approximately 15 minutes. Written test lasts 2 hours. No skills test involved.
Getting Your Results
Results are available immediately after the exam on the testing center's computer. Official results are mailed within two weeks.
If You Don't Pass
You can retake the exam after 60 days. The cost for a retake is the same as the initial exam fee. There is no limit on retakes in North Dakota.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Focus on major topic areas like medications and patient safety, as they comprise the majority of the exam.
- 2. Use process of elimination in multiple-choice questions to narrow down answers.
- 3. Manage time efficiently, aiming to spend no more than 1.33 minutes per question.
- 4. Read questions carefully to identify keywords and avoid common pitfalls.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED Certificate
From your high school or GED program · Varies · 1-4 weeks
Required for enrollment in most pharmacy technician programs
Background Check
Local police department or online background check service · $15-$50 · 1-3 days
Ensure there are no criminal records that would disqualify you from certification
Tuberculosis Test Results
Local clinic or healthcare provider · $20-$100 · 1-3 days
Some training programs require a recent TB test
CPR Certification
American Heart Association or Red Cross · $50-$100 · 1 day for the course
Certification must be current during training and examination
Immunization Records
Your healthcare provider or childhood records · Free to $20 for copies · 1-2 weeks
Required by some training programs, especially if clinical rotations are involved
2During Training
Enrollment Confirmation
Pharmacy Technician Training Program · Included in tuition · Immediate upon enrollment
Proof of enrollment may be needed for internships or externships
Liability Insurance
Insurance provider · $30-$100 per year · 1-3 days
Required for practical training involving direct patient contact
Progress Reports
Pharmacy Technician Training Program · Included in tuition · Issued at mid-term and end of term
May be required for internship placements
3For the Exam
Exam Application
Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or National Healthcareer Association (NHA) · $129 for PTCB, $117 for NHA
Complete and submit the application with the fee
Photo ID
State Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent · Varies
Needed for identity verification on the day of the exam
Authorization to Test (ATT)
Received from PTCB or NHA upon application approval · Included with exam application fee
Required to schedule your exam date; valid for a specific period
4For Certification
Certificate of Completion
Pharmacy Technician Training Program · Included in tuition
Proof of successful completion of a training program
Passing Exam Score Report
PTCB or NHA · Included with exam fee
Official documentation showing you passed the certification exam
Application for State Registration
North Dakota Board of Pharmacy · $35 registration fee
Must be submitted to legally work as a pharmacy technician in North Dakota
After You're Certified: What's Next
Immediately after passing your certification, verify your status on the North Dakota Board of Pharmacy website. Download and print your certification for your records and future use.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Indeed, Glassdoor, and the North Dakota Board of Pharmacy job board are reliable sources. Networking with local pharmacists and attending job fairs in North Dakota can also be beneficial.
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Retail pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens, hospital pharmacies, and long-term care facilities are key employers. Retail positions often offer flexible scheduling, while hospitals may provide opportunities for more complex drug management tasks.
Resume Tip: Highlight your certification, any relevant internships or volunteer experiences, and soft skills like attention to detail and customer service. List any relevant coursework or hands-on training received during your certification program.
Interview Tip: Describe a time when you had to work under pressure.How do you manage multiple tasks simultaneously?Explain how you would handle a difficult customer.What do you do to ensure accuracy in your work?
Expected First-Year Salary
In North Dakota, starting salaries for Pharmacy Technicians typically range from $31,000 to $36,000 annually.
Career Advancement Path
Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT)
Passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) is required.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Handling high volumes of prescriptions with accuracy, managing customer service issues, and staying updated with drug knowledge and regulations are common challenges. Regular training and peer support can help manage these effectively.
Pharmacy Technician Certification Salary in North Dakota
Pharmacy Technician Certification salaries in North Dakota exceed the national median, indicating a favorable job market in the state for this profession. The median annual salary in North Dakota is significantly higher than the national average.
Entry Level
$32,720
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$47,540
$22.86/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$55,000
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$40,300 national · ++18.0% in North Dakota
Salary by Metro Area
Highest concentration of pharmacy technicians
Salary by Employer Type
The salary in North Dakota allows for a comfortable living given the state's moderate cost of living.
Benefits & Compensation
Common benefits include health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salaries are expected to rise with increasing demand for healthcare services.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research average salaries in your area
- •Highlight relevant experience and certifications
Job Market in North Dakota
In North Dakota, the Pharmacy Technician Certification job market is growing, albeit at a potentially slower pace compared to the national average of 6.4%. Factors such as the state's rural population distribution and limited number of healthcare facilities might constrain growth. However, aging demographics and ongoing healthcare needs could drive sustained demand for pharmacy technicians.
Top Hiring Areas
Largest urban center with more healthcare facilities
State capital with steady healthcare needs
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall, aligning with healthcare hiring cycles
Opportunities
- Expansion of telehealth services
- Increased healthcare coverage and access
Challenges
- Geographical barriers in rural areas
- Competition with neighboring states with larger urban centers
Training Programs in North Dakota
North Dakota offers a variety of Pharmacy Technician Certification training programs through community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored initiatives.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 6 months to 2 years | $1,500 to $10,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 6 to 12 months | $2,000 to $5,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | 3 to 6 months | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Wahpeton, North Dakota
Strong emphasis on practical experience
Bismarck, North Dakota
Hybrid format offers flexibility
Online & Hybrid Options
Several community colleges offer hybrid formats combining online coursework with in-person labs.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify the program's accreditation status to ensure eligibility for certification exams.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Pharmacy Technician Certification program info for North Dakota
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Annually
Renewal Fee
$35
CE Hours
20 hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Pharmacy law, Medication safety, Pharmacy ethics
Out-of-State Reciprocity
North Dakota allows reciprocity for pharmacy technicians who are certified in other states, provided they meet North Dakota's specific requirements.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Active certification in another state
- Completion of all North Dakota-specific requirements
State Agreements
All states with PTCB or ExCPT certification
Additional Exams
No additional exams required if currently PTCB or ExCPT certified
Application Process
Submit an application for registration, including proof of certification and completion of a background check
Fees
$35
Processing Time: 2-3 weeks
Licensing Tips
Ensure all parts of the application are complete to avoid delays
Stay updated on continuing education requirements to ensure timely renewal
Recommended Resources
PTCB Exam Study Guide
This guide includes detailed information on all test areas and practice questions for self-assessment.
Mosby's Review for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination
Offers a comprehensive review and includes practice exams to test knowledge and understanding.
Pharmacy Technician Certification Study Guide and
Covers key topics and provides test-taking strategies, designed to aid students in passing the PTCB exam.
Barron's PTCE: Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam
This study guide provides a thorough review of all areas with practice tests and detailed explanations.
Counting trays and spatulas
Used for accurately counting and handling medications during practice and exams.
Digital scale
Essential for measuring small quantities of compounds accurately, crucial for compounding exercises.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-12
- North Dakota Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-12
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-12