As a pharmacy technician, you are an integral part of the healthcare team. You will be responsible for providing customer service, preparing and dispensing medications, and helping pharmacists in the day-to-day operations of the pharmacy. To become a pharmacy technician in Illinois, you must meet certain educational and certification requirements. In this article, we will discuss the steps you need to take to become a pharmacy technician in Illinois.
How to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Illinois
To become a pharmacy technician in Illinois, you must meet the educational and certification requirements set by the Illinois Board of Pharmacy. Here are the steps you need to take:
Step 1: Complete an Accredited Pharmacy Technician Training Program
The first step in becoming a pharmacy technician in Illinois is to complete an accredited pharmacy technician training program. There are several accredited programs available in Illinois, and you can find a list of accredited programs on the Illinois Board of Pharmacy website.
Step 2: Pass the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam
Once you have completed an accredited pharmacy technician training program, you must take and pass the national pharmacy technician certification exam. This exam is administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). It is a multiple choice exam that covers topics such as pharmacy law, medication safety, and medication calculations.
Step 3: Apply for an Illinois Pharmacy Technician License
After you have successfully passed the national pharmacy technician certification exam, you will need to apply for an Illinois pharmacy technician license. The application process can be completed online and requires you to submit the following documents: proof of completion of an approved pharmacy technician training program, proof of passing the national pharmacy technician certification exam, and a criminal background check.
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Illinois
What are the educational requirements to become a pharmacy technician in Illinois?
In order to become a pharmacy technician in Illinois, you must complete an accredited pharmacy technician training program. You can find a list of accredited programs on the Illinois Board of Pharmacy website.
Do I need to be certified to become a pharmacy technician in Illinois?
Yes, you must be certified to become a pharmacy technician in Illinois. To obtain certification, you must take and pass the national pharmacy technician certification exam, which is administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board.
How long does it take to become a pharmacy technician in Illinois?
It typically takes 6-12 months to become a pharmacy technician in Illinois. This includes completing an accredited pharmacy technician training program, taking and passing the national pharmacy technician certification exam, and applying for an Illinois pharmacy technician license.
Are there continuing education requirements for pharmacy technicians in Illinois?
Yes, pharmacy technicians in Illinois must complete 10 hours of continuing education each year. The continuing education must be approved by the Illinois Board of Pharmacy.
Conclusion
Becoming a pharmacy technician in Illinois is a rewarding career that requires dedication and hard work. To become a pharmacy technician in Illinois, you must complete an accredited pharmacy technician training program, pass the national pharmacy technician certification exam, and apply for an Illinois pharmacy technician license. Once you have become a pharmacy technician in Illinois, you must complete 10 hours of continuing education each year to maintain your license.
