.svg)
4-Month online CA Pharmacy Technician course
Receive your national NHA-CPhT certificate
100% online followed by in-person externship
Job interview prep and resume services
1:1 support from enrollment to employment
%203.svg)
What You’ll Learn
.png)
Weeks 1-4
Learn the foundational healthcare knowledge you need to become a well-rounded pharmacy technician and start diving into pharmacy practice.
Weeks 5-9
Master the ins and outs of pharmacology and get hands-on with pharmacy calculations and prescription medications.
Weeks 10-14
Develop skills in processing and dispensing prescriptions, and prepare for the NHA ExCPT Exam with mock tests and a comprehensive review of key pharmacy concepts.
Weeks 15+
Apply everything you learned online and earn clinical hours in a pharmacy setting. Our experienced coaches will help polish your resume, prepare you for interviews, and support you in your full-time job search.
Online Pharmacy Tech classes at your own schedule
.webp)
01
Graduate from High School or Complete Your GED
To become a pharmacy technician in California, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. A valid Social Security number (SSN) is required, and all applicants must pass a comprehensive criminal background check, including fingerprint verification through LiveScan.
02
Enroll in and Complete a Pharmacy Technician Training Program
California requires prospective pharmacy technicians to complete a training program accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) or one approved by the California State Board of Pharmacy. These programs provide comprehensive education on pharmacy operations, medication dispensing, and patient interaction.
Stepful’s 4-month pharmacy technician course online provides a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for certification exams and real-world responsibilities.
03
Complete a Pharmacy Technician Externship
Gaining hands-on experience is essential for pharmacy technicians in California. While externships are not mandatory for state licensure, they provide valuable real-world training in retail pharmacies, hospitals, and healthcare facilities.
At Stepful, we offer personalized career support, including resume assistance and job search guidance, to help students transition into the workforce. While we collaborate with select pharmacies and healthcare providers, externship availability may vary by location.
04
Pass a National Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam
Pass the PTCE (PTCB) or ExCPT (NHA) to validate your skills, then apply for licensure with the California State Board of Pharmacy by submitting an application, paying fees, and completing a background check. Maintain certification by meeting continuing education and renewal requirements.
05
Search for Jobs
After passing the PTCE or ExCPT, apply for licensure with the California State Board of Pharmacy, submitting a notarized application and a $195 fee. Once licensed, you can start applying for pharmacy technician positions.
To enhance your job prospects, emphasize your certification, training, and experience. Stepful’s career coaching team provides personalized job search support, resume assistance, and interview preparation to help you land a rewarding role.
To become a certified pharmacy technician in California, you must pass a national certification exam, such as the PTCE or ExCPT. These exams assess your knowledge of key areas, including medication safety, federal regulations, pharmacy law, and pharmaceutical calculations. Earning certification demonstrates your competency and prepares you for the responsibilities of the role.
%202.svg)
After obtaining national certification, pharmacy technicians must apply for licensure through the California State Board of Pharmacy. This process requires submitting an application, paying the necessary fees, and undergoing a criminal background check.
To maintain their license, you must complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years, including one hour in pharmacy law and one in patient safety, and pay a $40 renewal fee.
Pharmacy technician jobs in California continue to grow, making this an excellent career choice for those seeking job stability and advancement in the healthcare industry. The average salary for pharmacy technicians in California is $55,710 annually, with an average hourly wage of $26.78. Experienced pharmacy technicians can earn even higher wages, particularly in high-demand metropolitan areas.
The state employs approximately 41,420 pharmacy technicians, with major job opportunities in retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. Cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, and San Jose tend to offer higher salaries due to increased demand and cost of living.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2023, employment for pharmacy technicians nationwide is expected to grow by 7% over the next decade. This career path offers long-term stability, job advancement, and flexibility.
.svg)
$55,710
.svg)
+
7% Growth
.svg)
41,420
.webp)
Joining professional organizations helps pharmacy technicians in California stay updated, access continuing education, and connect with industry professionals. Some notable organizations you may want to keep in mind include:
- California Society of Health-System Pharmacists (CSHP): This society provides educational resources, networking events, and career development opportunities.
- California Pharmacists Association (CPhA): The CPhA offers legislative updates, continuing education, and professional advocacy.
- Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB): This national certification board ensures excellence and ongoing education for pharmacy technicians.
- National Healthcareer Association (NHA): The NHA certifies pharmacy technicians through the ExCPT exam and provides career development resources.
- National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA): This national organization offers continuing education, career resources, and specialized certifications.
What is Stepful?
What is the refund policy?
What Pharmacy Technician certifications do you prepare me for?
Do you help graduates find a job?
What tuition payment options are available?
What is included in Stepful’s California pharmacy technician program tuition?
What are the requirements to enroll in your state pharmacy technician training program?
Is the program online or in-person?
Do you have a partnership with the National Healthcareer Association?
Resources for aspiring Pharmacy Technicians
Join thousands of students getting certified with Stepful!
