Obtaining a Pharmacy Technician License in Illinois

_{November 17, 2023 by JoyAnswer.org, Category : Healthcare}

How to get a pharmacy technician license in Illinois? Learn how to secure a pharmacy technician license in the state of Illinois, including the necessary steps and requirements.

Table of Contents

How to get a pharmacy technician license in Illinois?

To become a licensed pharmacy technician in Illinois, you typically need to follow these steps:

1. Education: Complete a pharmacy technician training program accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) or another recognized accrediting agency. This education may be through a formal training program, on-the-job training, or military training.

2. Apply for Registration: Submit an application to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) to become a Registered Pharmacy Technician. You may need to provide proof of completing a training program or equivalent experience.

3. Pass Exams: Pass either the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Passing one of these exams is typically a requirement for registration.

4. Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check as part of the registration process.

5. Renewal and Continuing Education: Maintain your registration by renewing it periodically, usually every two years, and fulfilling any continuing education requirements set by the IDFPR.

It's essential to review the specific requirements and regulations set by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, as they may have updated guidelines or additional requirements for licensure as a pharmacy technician in the state.

You can find detailed information, application forms, and guidance on the IDFPR website or by contacting the department directly.

The process of obtaining a pharmacy technician license in Illinois

To become a licensed pharmacy technician in Illinois, you must meet specific eligibility requirements, complete an approved training program, pass a licensing exam, and adhere to ongoing continuing education requirements. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) oversees the licensing and regulation of pharmacy technicians in the state.

2. Eligibility Requirements and Prerequisites

To be eligible for a pharmacy technician license in Illinois, you must meet the following requirements:

Be at least 18 years old
Have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED)
Complete an approved pharmacy technician training program or apprenticeship
Pass the Pharmacy Technician Competency Exam (PTCE) or a nationally recognized equivalent exam

3. Licensing Exams, Certifications, and Training Programs

There are two primary options for obtaining a pharmacy technician license in Illinois:

PTCB Certification: The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) offers the PTCE, which is widely accepted throughout the United States. Passing the PTCE demonstrates your knowledge and competency in pharmacy technician practice.
Illinois Pharmacy Technician Certification: Illinois also offers its own pharmacy technician certification exam, which is administered by the IDFPR. Passing this exam meets the state licensing requirement.

In addition to passing a licensing exam, you must complete an approved pharmacy technician training program. These programs typically cover topics such as pharmacology, medication administration, pharmacy law, and patient safety. Approved training programs can be found at community colleges, vocational schools, or online providers.

4. Legal and Ethical Responsibilities

Licensed pharmacy technicians in Illinois have several legal and ethical responsibilities, including:

Accurately dispensing and handling medications
Maintaining patient confidentiality
Following pharmacy laws and regulations
Reporting any unsafe practices or errors to the appropriate authorities
Upholding ethical standards of conduct and professionalism

5. Continuing Education and Renewal Procedures

Pharmacy technicians in Illinois must complete 20 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years to maintain their license. This CE can be obtained through various online courses, seminars, or workshops. Failure to complete the required CE can result in license suspension or revocation.

Renewal Process:

To renew your pharmacy technician license, you must submit a renewal application to the IDFPR along with the required fee. The renewal period is for two years.

In summary, obtaining a pharmacy technician license in Illinois requires meeting eligibility criteria, completing an approved training program, passing a licensing exam, adhering to legal and ethical standards, and completing ongoing continuing education. By fulfilling these requirements, pharmacy technicians play a crucial role in ensuring patient safety and maintaining the highest standards of pharmacy practice.