North Carolina Pharmacy Tech Schools & Certification

Pharmacy technician careers are an excellent entry-level pathway to working in the healthcare industry. If you are seeking authorization to work as a pharmacy technician in North Carolina, there are steps you need to follow. Most of these regulations are Federally mandated. However, like other states, North Carolina is permitted to set additional requirements for applicants. This guide explains the steps you need to take to work as a pharmacy technician in NC.

North Carolina Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirements

North Carolina requires that pharmacy technician certification applicants fulfill the following, as per the North Carolina Board of Pharmacy:

• Applicants must be 18 years or over to practice in the state of North Carolina
• Applicants for certification must have a High School Diploma or equivalent such as a GED
• However, those who are currently studying for one of these qualifications are still able to apply, but the licensed pharmacist at their place of work should apply on their behalf. A letter from the school is required
• Criminal background checks are not required for certification in North Carolina; however, if the applicant has a criminal past that may impact their work, they are required to declare it and provide supporting documentation
• If the applicant wishes to apply for the PTCB exam in North Carolina, they are required to provide details for a criminal background check for this application only
• A $30 application fee applies for all applicants (all certifications run Jan 1 to Dec 31)
• Renewal must be submitted between Nov 1 and Dec 31; the fee is $30
• Many of the steps above are not required if the applicant has a current PTCB certification. Proof of this certification will be accepted

Special note 1: All relevant details must be submitted before the state authorities will carry out the criminal background check.

Special note 2: Transfers from other states are not permissible in North Carolina. Applicants must apply in the normal fashion.

North Carolina Pharmacy Technician Careers & Employment Outlook

According to the latest available data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of 2019, there were approximately 13,500 pharmacy technicians in North Carolina. Average pay currently stands at around $15.43 median rate per hour, or $32,600 annually.

Pharmacy technicians will find most employment in dedicated pharmacies and drug stores. This area provides employment for 51% of certified techs. 17% find employment in medical facilities such as hospitals and clinics. 9% will work in food stores and supermarkets at concessionary outlets.

Some pharmacies in North Carolina operate around the clock. This means some unsociable hours may be required of you such as evenings, nights, weekends, and some holidays. Concessions in food and health stores will operate during that retail outlet's operating hours.

The BLS projects job growth for pharmacy technicians will grow 4% between 2019 and 2029. This is the accumulated average of all jobs, meaning pharmacy technician employment will remain stable for the time being.

North Carolina Schools That Offer Pharmacy Technician Training Programs