Washington, D.C., offers a dynamic healthcare landscape with numerous opportunities for pharmacy technicians. To enhance your earning potential in the District, consider the following strategies:

Obtain Certification Through PTCB or NHA
While not mandated by D.C. law, most employers prefer or require certification from the. Achieving certification can make you a more competitive candidate for higher-paying positions.


Pursue Opportunities in Hospital and Health System Settings
Positions within hospital systems such as MedStar Health, George Washington University Hospital, and Howard University Hospital often offer higher salaries and comprehensive benefits compared to retail pharmacies. These roles may also provide opportunities for specialization and career advancement.


Explore Roles in Specialty and Mail-Order Pharmacies
Specialty pharmacies and mail-order services in the D.C. area often seek technicians with specific skills, such as medication therapy management and insurance coordination. These positions can offer competitive salaries and unique work environments.


Develop Specialized Skills
Acquiring skills in areas like sterile compounding, inventory management, and insurance billing can set you apart from other candidates. Specialized training can lead to advanced roles with increased responsibilities and higher pay.


Engage in Continuing Education and Professional Development
D.C. regulations require pharmacy technicians to complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years, including specific topics such as pharmacy law and medication safety. Staying current with continuing education not only ensures compliance but also demonstrates commitment to the profession, potentially leading to promotions and salary increases.

Obtain Your High School Diploma or GED

The first step towards becoming a Pharmacy Technician is earning your high school diploma or GED. This is a basic requirement for most Pharmacy Technician programs and jobs.

Having a strong background in math and science can be particularly beneficial in this field. Some high schools may offer vocational programs. These can provide an early start in your Pharmacy Technician training.

Complete a Pharmacy Technician Program

Completing a Pharmacy Technician program can greatly enhance your skills and employability, though it's not always required. In Washington D.C., several institutions offer Pharmacy Technician programs. These include the University of the District of Columbia's Workforce Development Program.

This program prepares students with the necessary skills and knowledge to work in a pharmacy setting. It includes an externship for hands-on experience. For a more affordable option, consider online certification training programs like Stepful.

Stepful provides comprehensive and flexible training. It can be completed at your own pace, making it an ideal choice for those with busy schedules or budget constraints.

>> Read More: How Much Do Pharmacy Technician School & Certification Cost?

Obtain Certification

After completing your education, the next step is to obtain certification. In Washington D.C., Pharmacy Technicians must be registered with the District of Columbia Board of Pharmacy.

This registration requires passing an exam. The exam is administered by either the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Upon passing the exam, you will be certified and ready to start your career as a Pharmacy Technician.

>> Read More: Pharmacy Technician Certification Options (PTCB, NHA, CPhT, & More)

Remember, maintaining your certification requires fulfilling continuing education requirements. Be prepared for ongoing learning in this dynamic field.

If you're considering becoming a pharmacy technician in Washington, D.C., now is a great time to get started. According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), pharmacy technician employment is projected to grow 7% nationwide from 2023 to 2033—faster than the average for all occupations. This demand is being driven by an aging population, increased access to healthcare, and expanding pharmacy services.

Locally, Washington, D.C. offers one of the most competitive job markets for pharmacy technicians. As of 2023, the District employed around 740 pharmacy techs. With top-tier hospitals, research centers, and government health agencies concentrated in the area, D.C. continues to offer strong opportunities for pharmacy technicians looking to build a stable and rewarding career.