United States
Hong KongEligibility routes
Either completion of a PTCB-Recognized Education/Training Program, or completion within 60 days of application, or a minimum of 500 hours of equivalent work experience complete at the time of application with a supervisor attestation.
Two routes, and candidates who assume a course is compulsory frequently already qualify by the other.
Route one: a recognized program
Completion of a PTCB-Recognized Education/Training Program, or completion within 60 days of applying.
The 60-day allowance matters: you can apply while finishing, rather than waiting for a certificate before starting the process.
Route two: 500 hours
A minimum of 500 hours of equivalent work experience as a pharmacy technician, complete at the time of application, with a supervisor attestation covering the same knowledge requirements used to evaluate recognized programs.
The dual-pathway structure dates from 1 January 2020. What changed then was the documentation: the supervisor attestation has to cover the same knowledge areas a recognized program would. It is a real route, not a legacy one, and for a working technician it is usually the cheaper door.
Which route to use
| If you are | Then |
|---|---|
| Already working in a pharmacy | Route two is likely cheaper and faster if you have the hours |
| Entering the field | Route one, since you cannot accumulate hours without a job |
| Part way through a program | Route one, using the 60-day allowance |
| Working but short of 500 hours | Wait for the hours, or take a program |
What neither route is
A degree. The occupation's typical entry-level education is a high school diploma or equivalent, and PTCB does not require a degree for either route.
A caution on providers
Only a PTCB-Recognized Education/Training Program satisfies route one. A course that prepares you for the exam is not the same thing as a recognized program, and the two are easy to confuse when both are marketed as PTCB preparation.
Check PTCB's own list before paying for anything you are relying on for eligibility.
Common questions
What are the PTCB eligibility routes?
A PTCB-Recognized Education/Training Program, or 500 hours of equivalent work experience with a supervisor attestation.
Can I apply before finishing a program?
Yes, if you will complete it within 60 days of applying.
Do the 500 hours have to be complete?
Yes, at the time of application.
Do I need a degree?
No. Typical entry-level education for the occupation is a high school diploma or equivalent.
Does any prep course satisfy route one?
No. Only a PTCB-Recognized Education/Training Program. Check PTCB's own list.