Are you interested in starting a career in healthcare? Becoming a pharmacy technician in New Hampshire could be the perfect opportunity for you. This guide will walk you through the process of becoming a registered or certified pharmacy technician in the Granite State.

What is a Pharmacy Technician?

Pharmacy Technicians help pharmacists with various tasks, such as preparing and dispensing medications, maintaining medication inventory, and providing customer service.

Where does a Pharmacy Technician work?

Pharmacy Technicians can find employment in a variety of settings, including hospitals, retail pharmacies, long-term care facilities, and specialty pharmacies.

How to Become a Certified Pharmacy Technician in New Hampshire

To become a certified pharmacy technician in New Hampshire, you need to complete an approved training program and pass a national exam such as the PTCE or ExCPT exam for certification.

1. Meet requirements

Requirements to become a pharmacy technician in New Hampshire include:

• Be at least 16 years old
• Have or be working towards a high school diploma (or equivalent)
• Must not have been convicted of a drug-related felony

2. Find a training program

If you'd like to become a certified pharmacy technician, you should find a pharmacy technician program. You can use Dreambound to find approved pharmacy technician programs. You can compare class options by online, cost, and whether financial aid is available for those who qualify.

3. Complete your training program

Training programs can vary in length but generally take 4-6 months to complete. Training programs can also be self-paced, which means you can complete them as fast as you are able to complete all of the modules. We recommend this if you're looking for an accelerated option, but you must be fairly self-motivated - it's easy to stop the program if other things come up in life.

You will also need to complete an externship, which has you do on-the-job training under a licensed pharmacist. Your school should match you up with an externship site, such as CVS or Walgreens.

4. Take a national exam

To become certified, you will need to pass a nationally recognized certification exam approved by the NH Board of Pharmacy. Exams include options such as the PTCE or ExCPT exam for certification.

5. Registered with the New Hampshire Board of Pharmacy

The initial registration fee is $100. You will also need to renew your registration biennially (every two years) by March 31 of odd-numbered years.

6. Look for jobs

Finally, search for job opportunities in pharmacies or healthcare settings. Contribute to patient well-being while earning a competitive salary.

Similar Careers to Consider

• Medical Administrative Assistant: Performs administrative tasks such as collecting medical records or speaking with patients, somewhat similar to a pharmacy techncian.
• Dental Assistant: Supports dentists during procedures and manages patient records and schedules appointments. Typically needs completion of an accredited program and state licensure
• Medical Billing and Coding: Most administrative and back-office than a pharmacy technician program. You may have the flexibility to work from home too.
• Phlebotomist: Learn to draw blood for tests, transfusions, donations, or research. Works in hospitals, laboratories, or blood donation centers; typically requires completion of a phlebotomy program and certification

What are the requirements to become a Pharmacy Technician in New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, you must complete an accredited training program and pass one of the NH-recognized national exams. These include the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT). You must also be at least 16 years old, have or be working towards a high school diploma (or equivalent), and not have been convicted of a drug-related felony

Where can I find Pharmacy Technician classes in New Hampshire?

Dreambound is the largest platform for students to find and compare vocational training programs, including Pharmacy Technician classes in New Hampshire.

How do I get my Pharmacy Technician certification?

To get your Pharmacy Technician certification in New Hampshire, you must pass the PTCE or ExCPT exam. Dreambound can help you find the right training program to prepare for the certification exam.

How many pharmacy technicians are currently working in New Hampshire?

As of 2023, there are 1,950 registered pharmacy technicians and 2,157 certified pharmacy technicians in New Hampshire.

What tasks can a pharmacy technician perform?

Pharmacy technicians help licensed pharmacists with non-discretionary tasks in preparing medications, talking to customers, and providing technical support. All tasks must be verified by a pharmacist.

How do I get a job as a Pharmacy Technician?

After completing your training and obtaining your certification, you can apply for Pharmacy Technician positions at various healthcare facilities in New Hampshire. Networking, internships, and job search platforms can also help you find employment.

What's the difference between a registered and certified pharmacy technician?

Registered pharmacy technicians meet basic requirements and complete on-the-job training. Certified pharmacy technicians have passed a national certification exam and may have additional responsibilities. Generally employers prefer certified pharmacy technicians.

Registered pharmacy technicians must go through 80 hours of on-the-job training under a licensed pharmacist and register with the New Hampshire Board of Pharmacy within 15 days of working. For this option, you need to be at least 16 years old and have or be working towards a high school diploma.

Do I need to complete continuing education?

Continuing education is not required for registered pharmacy technicians. However, certified pharmacy technicians must complete board-approved continuing education.

Where can I find more information about becoming a pharmacy technician?

You can contact the New Hampshire Board of Pharmacy or visit their website for the most up-to-date information.

Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a Pharmacy Technician

With experience and additional training, Pharmacy Technicians can pursue career advancement opportunities, such as becoming a lead or senior Pharmacy Technician, a pharmacy manager, or even continuing their education to become a pharmacist.

Final Thoughts

By following these steps and understanding the requirements, you'll be well on your way to starting a rewarding career as a pharmacy technician in New Hampshire. Remember to always stay informed about any changes in regulations or requirements by checking with the NH Board of Pharmacy.

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