ExCPT Path vs PTCE Path
Becoming a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) requires passing one of two nationally recognized exams: the ExCPT from NHA or the PTCE from PTCB. Both paths lead to the same CPhT credential, but they differ significantly in eligibility requirements, exam format, industry recognition, and long-term career implications. The PTCE path through PTCB is the more widely recognized option with a faster work experience pathway (500 hours vs 1,200 hours) and access to advanced credentials. The ExCPT path through NHA offers lower continuing education renewal requirements and an exam heavily focused on retail dispensing competency. Understanding the differences between these certification paths helps you choose the route that best fits your timeline, experience level, and career goals.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | ExCPT Path | PTCE Path |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | NHA ExCPT Certification Path to CPhT | PTCB PTCE Certification Path to CPhT |
| Exam Cost | $117-$129 (exam fee only) | $129 (exam fee only) |
| Passing Score | 80 of 100 scored questions correct (80%) | Scaled score of 1,400 (on a 1,000-1,600 scale) |
| Questions | 120 questions (100 scored, 20 pretest) | 90 questions (80 scored, 10 pretest) |
| Time Limit | 130 minutes (2 hours 10 minutes) | 110 minutes (1 hour 50 minutes) |
| Study Time | 60-120 hours (6-12 weeks recommended) | 60-120 hours (6-12 weeks recommended) |
| Difficulty | Moderate to Difficult | Moderate to Difficult |
| Prerequisites | Must complete a pharmacy technician training program OR have 1,200 hours of supervised pharmacy-related work experience within the last 3 years. High school diploma or equivalent required. | Must complete a PTCB-Recognized Education/Training Program OR have a minimum of 500 hours of supervised pharmacy work experience. High school diploma or equivalent required. No felony drug or pharmacy-related convictions. |
| Exam Body | National Healthcareer Association (NHA) | Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) |
Key Differences
- 1The PTCE work experience pathway requires only 500 hours of supervised pharmacy work, while the ExCPT requires 1,200 hours. For a part-time tech working 20 hours/week, PTCB qualifies you in about 6 months vs 15 months for NHA.
- 2PTCB offers advanced credential pathways beyond CPhT: CPhT-Adv (Advanced Certified Pharmacy Technician) and CSPT (Certified Compounded Sterile Preparation Technician). NHA does not currently offer equivalent advanced pharmacy credentials.
- 3The ExCPT requires only 10 continuing education hours for biennial renewal, compared to 20 CE hours for the PTCE. Over a 20-year career, this saves approximately 100 hours of continuing education.
- 4Training program pathways are comparable: both PTCB-recognized and NHA-affiliated programs typically last 4-12 months and prepare you for the respective certification exam.
- 5The PTCB credential is more widely recognized in hospital and specialty pharmacy settings. The NHA credential is particularly common in retail pharmacy environments.
- 6State requirements vary: some states accept only PTCB certification, some accept both, and a few states have their own pharmacy technician exams. Check your state board of pharmacy requirements before choosing a path.
- 7The ExCPT exam is entirely multiple choice. The 2026 PTCE now includes hot spot and drag-and-drop question formats in addition to multiple choice.
What Each Exam Allows You To Do
ExCPT Path
- Earn the CPhT credential through the National Healthcareer Association
- Work as a certified pharmacy technician in retail, community, and hospital pharmacies
- Meet state licensure requirements in states that accept NHA certification
- Access NHA continuing education resources and professional development tools
- Qualify for certified pharmacy technician pay rates (10-20% above non-certified)
- Demonstrate retail dispensing competency with the ExCPT's heavy focus on dispensing processes
PTCE Path
- Earn the CPhT credential through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board
- Work as a certified pharmacy technician in retail, hospital, and specialty pharmacies
- Meet state licensure requirements in all 50 states that accept national certification
- Pursue advanced PTCB credentials: CPhT-Adv and CSPT
- Qualify for certified pharmacy technician pay rates (10-20% above non-certified)
- Access the most widely recognized pharmacy technician certification in the industry
Who Should Take Each Exam?
Take the ExCPT Path if you...
- →Pharmacy workers with 1,200+ hours of supervised experience looking to certify
- →Graduates of NHA-affiliated or NHA-recognized training programs
- →Techs who prefer lower continuing education renewal requirements (10 CE hours biennial)
- →Those already holding other NHA certifications who are familiar with the NHA ecosystem
- →Retail pharmacy techs who want an exam heavily focused on dispensing workflow (43% of exam)
- →Candidates who prefer an entirely multiple-choice exam format
Take the PTCE Path if you...
- →New pharmacy techs who want the fastest path to certification via work experience (500 hours)
- →Graduates of PTCB-recognized pharmacy technician training programs
- →Techs planning to work in hospital or specialty pharmacy settings where PTCB is preferred
- →Those who want to pursue advanced credentials (CPhT-Adv, CSPT) later in their career
- →Candidates who prefer a shorter exam format (90 questions in 110 minutes)
- →Career-focused techs who want the most broadly recognized certification for job flexibility
Which Should You Take First?
The best certification path depends on your current situation. If you are a new pharmacy tech with limited work experience, the PTCE (PTCB) path is generally recommended because it requires only 500 hours of work experience (vs 1,200 for ExCPT), is more widely recognized by employers, and offers advanced credential pathways for career growth. If you are an experienced pharmacy worker with 1,200+ hours already completed, the ExCPT (NHA) path is a viable alternative with lower renewal requirements and an exam format that directly tests your retail dispensing experience. For training program graduates, the best choice is typically the exam aligned with your program's certification body — PTCB-recognized programs prepare you for the PTCE, and NHA-affiliated programs prepare you for the ExCPT. Always check your state board of pharmacy requirements, as some states may require or prefer a specific certification.
At a Glance: ExCPT Path vs PTCE Path
Certifying Body
NHA (ExCPT)
ExCPT Path
PTCB (PTCE)
PTCE Path
Work Experience Path
1,200 hours (8-15 months)
ExCPT Path
500 hours (3-6 months)
PTCE Path
Training Program Path
4-12 months program
ExCPT Path
4-12 months program
PTCE Path
Exam Fee
$117-$129
ExCPT Path
$129
PTCE Path
Total Certification Cost
$172 - $15,300
ExCPT Path
$184 - $15,300
PTCE Path
Renewal CE Hours
10 hours / 2 years
ExCPT Path
20 hours / 2 years
PTCE Path
Advanced Credentials
None currently
ExCPT Path
CPhT-Adv, CSPT
PTCE Path
ExCPT Path
Experienced pharmacy workers with 1,200+ hours who want the NHA ecosystem, lower renewal requirements, and a retail pharmacy-focused certification path
PTCE Path
New pharmacy techs who want the fastest certification path, maximum industry recognition, and access to advanced credential pathways (CPhT-Adv, CSPT)
Start preparing today:
Key Facts: ExCPT Path vs PTCE Path
- 1Both the ExCPT (NHA) and PTCE (PTCB) lead to the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential, which is accepted in all 50 states.
- 2The PTCB work experience pathway requires 500 hours of supervised pharmacy work. The NHA work experience pathway requires 1,200 hours — more than double the PTCB requirement.
- 3PTCB-recognized training programs typically have an 83% exam pass rate, compared to approximately 64% for ExCPT overall and 70% for PTCE overall.
- 4PTCB offers advanced credentials: CPhT-Adv (Advanced Certified Pharmacy Technician) and CSPT (Certified Compounded Sterile Preparation Technician). NHA has no equivalent advanced pharmacy credentials.
- 5NHA requires 10 CE hours for biennial CPhT renewal; PTCB requires 20 CE hours. Over a 20-year career, this is a difference of approximately 100 hours of continuing education.
- 6Some states have their own pharmacy technician certification requirements. Always verify your state board of pharmacy requirements before choosing a certification path.
- 7The total cost to become a CPhT ranges from approximately $170 (work experience pathway with exam fee and state license only) to $15,300+ (training program with tuition, exam, and licensing fees).
- 8Pharmacy technician training programs typically last 4-12 months and include classroom instruction, lab practice, and externship hours.
- 9Both certifications must be renewed every 2 years. Failure to renew on time may result in loss of CPhT status and require retaking the exam.
- 10Pharmacy technician employment is projected to grow 7% from 2023-2033 (BLS), with about 49,000 annual openings driven by retirements and industry expansion.
Why This Comparison Matters
3-6 vs 8-15 Months
PTCB Work Experience Path Is Faster
The PTCB requires only 500 hours of supervised work experience for eligibility, while the NHA requires 1,200 hours. For a part-time pharmacy tech, this means the PTCB path qualifies you 9+ months sooner through work experience alone.
Same CPhT
Both Lead to the Identical Credential
Whether you certify through the ExCPT (NHA) or PTCE (PTCB), you earn the same Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) designation. Most states and employers accept either certification for licensure.
CPhT-Adv & CSPT
PTCB Offers Advanced Pathways
Only PTCB offers advanced credentials beyond the base CPhT: CPhT-Adv (Advanced Certified Pharmacy Technician) for experienced techs and CSPT (Certified Compounded Sterile Preparation Technician) for sterile compounding specialists.
10 vs 20 CE Hours
NHA Has Lower Renewal Requirements
The NHA requires only 10 continuing education hours for biennial CPhT renewal, compared to 20 CE hours for PTCB. This makes the NHA certification less time-intensive and costly to maintain over your career.
Choosing the right certification path to become a CPhT is one of the most important decisions for aspiring pharmacy technicians. While both the ExCPT and PTCE lead to the same credential, the path you choose affects how quickly you can certify, what career advancement options are available, and how much effort is required to maintain your certification over time.
For most candidates entering the pharmacy field in 2026, the PTCB pathway offers the strongest combination of accessibility, recognition, and career growth potential. The 500-hour work experience requirement is far more achievable than the NHA's 1,200-hour requirement, and the availability of advanced credentials (CPhT-Adv and CSPT) provides a clear ladder for career advancement that the NHA ecosystem currently lacks.
However, the NHA ExCPT path should not be dismissed. Its lower continuing education requirements (10 vs 20 CE hours per renewal cycle) represent a meaningful long-term time and cost savings. The ExCPT's heavy emphasis on the dispensing process (43% of the exam) also makes it an excellent match for pharmacy technicians whose daily work revolves around retail prescription filling. The best certification path is ultimately the one that aligns with your training background, work experience, state requirements, and long-term career vision.
What Each Exam Covers
ExCPT Path Exam Topics
Pass Rate: Approximately 64% overall pass rate (NHA data)
PTCE Path Exam Topics
Pass Rate: Approximately 70% overall pass rate; 83% for PTCB-recognized training program graduates
Salary & Income Comparison
Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) via NHA
$43,460
Median Annual Salary
Range: $33,000 - $55,000+
BLS, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024
CPhT salary is equivalent regardless of certification body. The NHA certification is particularly common in retail pharmacy settings. Experienced retail CPhTs at major chains can earn $40,000-$50,000+ with benefits. Techs in high cost-of-living states (CA, NY, WA) earn at the top of the range.
Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) via PTCB
$43,460
Median Annual Salary
Range: $33,000 - $55,000+
BLS, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024
PTCB certification opens the door to the highest-paying pharmacy technician roles. Hospital pharmacy techs earn 15-25% above the median, and those with CSPT certification in sterile compounding can earn $50,000-$65,000+ in high-demand markets. The CPhT-Adv credential also positions techs for supervisory roles.
Salary for Certified Pharmacy Technicians is identical regardless of whether you certify through NHA (ExCPT) or PTCB (PTCE). Employers pay based on the CPhT credential, not the certifying body. The BLS reports a median annual wage of $43,460 for pharmacy technicians (May 2024), with a range of $33,000 to $55,000+. The key salary differentiators are work setting (hospital > retail), geographic location (high cost-of-living states pay more), experience level, and specialization. Hospital pharmacy techs earn 15-25% above the median, and those with PTCB advanced credentials (CPhT-Adv, CSPT) can command $50,000-$65,000+ in high-demand markets. Certified techs earn 10-20% more than non-certified techs on average.
Total Cost to Get Licensed
| Expense | ExCPT Path | PTCE Path |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Licensing Education | $1,000 - $15,000 (training program) or $0 (1,200-hour work experience pathway) | $1,000 - $15,000 (training program) or $0 (500-hour work experience pathway) |
| Exam Fee | $117 - $129 | $129 |
| License Fee | $25 - $100 (varies by state) | $25 - $100 (varies by state) |
| Background Check | $30 - $75 (varies by state) | $30 - $75 (varies by state) |
| Total Investment | $172 - $15,304 (depending on pathway and state) | $184 - $15,304 (depending on pathway and state) |
A Day in the Life
ExCPT Path Professional
Jessica chose the NHA ExCPT path after completing 1,200 hours as a pharmacy tech trainee at a busy community pharmacy. Her daily routine reflects the dispensing-focused skills tested on the ExCPT: she processes 200+ prescriptions per shift, manages prescription intake and data entry, performs drug utilization reviews, handles insurance rejections, and counsels patients on OTC products under pharmacist supervision. Her strong dispensing workflow knowledge — the core of the ExCPT exam — directly translates to her daily responsibilities. After 3 years, she has become the lead technician at her location, training new hires and managing inventory.
PTCE Path Professional
David chose the PTCB PTCE path after completing a 6-month PTCB-recognized training program. He now works in a hospital pharmacy where his PTCB certification was specifically required by the employer. His day includes preparing IV medications in the sterile compounding room, reviewing electronic medication orders, restocking automated dispensing cabinets, and assisting with medication safety audits. The broad knowledge tested on the PTCE — medications, federal requirements, patient safety, and order processing — applies directly to his diverse hospital duties. He is now pursuing his CSPT certification to specialize in sterile compounding, an advanced credential only available through PTCB.
Career Paths & Progression
ExCPT Path Career Path
0 years
Pharmacy Tech Trainee (NHA pathway)
$28,000 - $34,000
1-2 years
CPhT (NHA-certified)
$38,000 - $45,000
3-5 years
Senior Retail Pharmacy Technician
$42,000 - $50,000
5-10 years
Lead Technician / Pharmacy Trainer
$46,000 - $55,000
PTCE Path Career Path
0 years
Pharmacy Tech Trainee (PTCB pathway)
$28,000 - $34,000
1-2 years
CPhT (PTCB-certified)
$38,000 - $45,000
3-5 years
CPhT-Adv / Hospital Pharmacy Tech
$45,000 - $55,000
5-10 years
CSPT (Sterile Compounding) / Pharmacy Supervisor
$50,000 - $65,000
Start preparing today:
Should You Pursue Both NHA and PTCB Certification?
Benefits
- +Maximum flexibility when applying to employers who may prefer one certification over the other
- +Demonstrates comprehensive pharmacy knowledge validated by both major certification organizations
- +Provides a safety net if one certification lapses or if your state changes requirements
- +Shows exceptional commitment to the pharmacy profession and continuous development
Considerations
- !Both certifications result in the same CPhT credential — dual certification is redundant for most career purposes
- !Maintaining both requires paying two renewal fees and tracking two separate CE requirements
- !Time spent on a second base certification could be better invested in PTCB advanced credentials (CPhT-Adv or CSPT)
- !Very few employers differentiate between the two certifications, and none require both
The Verdict: Pursuing both certifications is unnecessary for the vast majority of pharmacy technicians. Instead, choose the certification path that best aligns with your training, experience, and career goals. If you want to advance your career, invest in PTCB advanced credentials (CPhT-Adv for experienced techs or CSPT for sterile compounding) rather than obtaining a second base-level certification.
Job Outlook & Industry Trends
7% growth (2023-2033), faster than average
ExCPT Path Job Growth (2024-2034)
7% growth (2023-2033), faster than average
PTCE Path Job Growth (2024-2034)
The job outlook for Certified Pharmacy Technicians is strong regardless of certification path. The BLS projects 7% employment growth from 2023 to 2033, with approximately 49,000 openings per year. Both NHA-certified and PTCB-certified pharmacy techs benefit equally from this demand. Key growth drivers include expanded pharmacy technician scope of practice (immunizations, point-of-care testing), aging population requiring more medications, specialty pharmacy growth, and ongoing pharmacist shortages that require techs to take on more responsibilities. Certified techs have a significant advantage: many states now mandate certification for licensure, and employers overwhelmingly prefer or require the CPhT credential.
Study Strategy & Tips
Eligibility Phase
Meet eligibility requirements through training or work experience
- ExCPT path: Complete an NHA-affiliated training program (4-12 months) OR accumulate 1,200 hours of supervised pharmacy work experience
- PTCE path: Complete a PTCB-recognized training program (4-12 months) OR accumulate 500 hours of supervised pharmacy work experience
- Apply for your state pharmacy technician registration or trainee permit (required in most states before working)
- Begin studying foundational pharmacy knowledge: top drugs, pharmacy law, pharmacy math, and dispensing processes
Focused Study Phase
Intensive exam preparation aligned with your chosen certification
- ExCPT focus: Prioritize the Dispensing Process domain (43%) — prescription intake, medication preparation, calculations, compounding
- PTCE focus: Prioritize the Medications domain (35%) — Top 200 drugs, drug classes, interactions, side effects
- Study pharmacy law and regulations (15-18.75% of either exam) including federal requirements and controlled substance schedules
- Complete 200-400 practice questions, reviewing every incorrect answer in detail
- Study medication safety: error prevention, quality assurance, and patient safety procedures
Final Prep and Exam
Practice exams, weak area review, and test day
- Take 3-4 full-length timed practice exams under realistic conditions
- Review all weak areas identified from practice exam performance
- Schedule your exam at Pearson VUE (PTCE) or PSI (ExCPT) testing center
- Complete any remaining CE or program requirements before your test date
- Final week: light review, adequate sleep, and familiarize yourself with testing center logistics
Total Duration: 4-12 months (includes training/experience + exam prep)
ExCPT Path Study Tips
- 1The Dispensing Process domain (43%) is overwhelmingly the most important section. Master prescription intake, preparing and dispensing medications, pharmacy calculations, and compounding.
- 2If you are qualifying through work experience (1,200 hours), leverage your practical knowledge — the ExCPT is designed to test real-world dispensing competency.
- 3Study NHA-specific practice materials. The NHA practice test bundle closely mirrors the actual exam format and question style.
- 4Focus on pharmacy calculations: dosage conversions, days supply, concentration calculations, and unit-dose packaging appear throughout the Dispensing Process domain.
- 5Review pharmacy law and controlled substance schedules (15% of the exam). Know DEA schedules, prescription transfer rules, and refill limitations.
- 6Practice under timed conditions: 120 questions in 130 minutes gives you about 65 seconds per question.
PTCE Path Study Tips
- 1The Medications domain (35%) is the largest. Master the Top 200 drugs: brand/generic names, drug classes, indications, side effects, and contraindications.
- 2Federal Requirements increased to 18.75% in 2026. Study DSCSA compliance, DEA regulations, FDA processes, and state-specific pharmacy laws thoroughly.
- 3Practice the new 2026 question formats: hot spot questions (click correct area on an image) and drag-and-drop (sequence items correctly) alongside traditional multiple choice.
- 4Use PTCB-recognized practice exams and study materials. Programs with PTCB recognition report an average 83% pass rate.
- 5Focus on Patient Safety (23.75%): medication error prevention, root cause analysis, REMS, tall man lettering, and look-alike/sound-alike drug strategies.
- 6If qualifying through work experience (500 hours), start studying early — you can register to take the exam as soon as you reach the hour threshold.
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Frequently Asked Questions
QWhat is the fastest way to become a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT)?
The fastest path is completing a PTCB-recognized pharmacy technician training program (as short as 4 months for accelerated programs) and then passing the PTCE exam. If going the work experience route, the PTCB pathway is faster because it requires only 500 hours of supervised pharmacy work compared to 1,200 hours for the NHA ExCPT. A full-time pharmacy tech working 40 hours/week can reach the PTCB threshold in about 3 months.
QDo all states accept both the ExCPT and PTCE for pharmacy technician licensure?
Most states accept both the ExCPT (NHA) and PTCE (PTCB) for pharmacy technician certification or registration. However, a small number of states may have specific requirements or preferences. For example, some states only recognize PTCB certification for their licensure process. Always check your state board of pharmacy website for the most current requirements before choosing a certification path.
QCan I switch from NHA to PTCB certification (or vice versa) later?
Yes, you can take the other certification exam at any time, provided you meet the eligibility requirements. Your existing CPhT credential from one organization does not transfer to the other — you would need to pass the new exam. Many techs who initially certified through NHA later pursue PTCB certification for access to advanced credentials (CPhT-Adv, CSPT) or to meet employer preferences.
QWhat happens if my CPhT certification lapses?
If your CPhT certification lapses (you fail to renew on time), the consequences depend on the certification body. PTCB has a reinstatement process that may require completing additional CE hours and paying a reinstatement fee. NHA also has a reinstatement process. If your certification has been lapsed for an extended period, you may need to retake the certification exam. A lapsed certification may also affect your state licensure status — check with your state board.
QIs a pharmacy technician training program required, or can I qualify through work experience only?
A training program is not required for either certification — both offer a work experience pathway. PTCB requires 500 hours of supervised pharmacy work experience, and NHA requires 1,200 hours. However, training programs significantly improve pass rates (PTCB-recognized programs report 83% pass rates vs 70% overall). Training programs also provide structured education, externship opportunities, and often help with job placement.
QHow much does a pharmacy technician training program cost?
Pharmacy technician training programs range from $1,000 to $15,000+ depending on the institution. Community college programs typically cost $1,000-$5,000. Vocational schools and private training centers range from $3,000-$10,000. Online programs are often $2,000-$5,000. Many programs offer financial aid, scholarships, or employer-sponsored tuition assistance. Some programs include the certification exam fee in the tuition, saving you an additional $129.
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