PTCE vs ExCPT
Both exams lead to the CPhT credential, but PTCE (PTCB) is considered the 'gold standard' with universal state acceptance, while ExCPT (NHA) has limited acceptance in some states. PTCE requires only 500 hours experience; ExCPT requires 1,200 hours.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | PTCE | ExCPT |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam | Exam for Certification of Pharmacy Technicians |
| Exam Cost | $129 | $117-$129 |
| Passing Score | 1,400/1,600 scaled | 390/500 scaled |
| Questions | 90 (80 scored, 10 pilot) | 120 (100 scored, 20 pilot) |
| Time Limit | 1 hr 50 min | 2 hrs 10 min |
| Study Time | 50-100 hours | 50-100 hours |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Moderate |
| Prerequisites | 500 hrs experience OR approved program | 1,200 hrs experience OR approved program |
| Exam Body | PTCB | NHA |
Key Differences
- 1PTCE accepted in ALL 50 states; ExCPT NOT accepted in WY, LA, IN, and potentially others
- 2PTCE requires 500 hrs experience; ExCPT requires 1,200 hrs
- 3PTCE has 90 questions; ExCPT has 120 questions
- 4PTCE pass rate ~70%; ExCPT pass rate ~62%
- 5PTCB offers advanced credentials (CPhT-Adv, CSPT, CPPT); NHA does not
- 6Hospitals prefer PTCE; retail accepts either
- 7Both cost ~$129 and grant the same CPhT credential
What Each Exam Allows You To Do
PTCE
- Become a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT)
- Work in any state (universal acceptance)
- Work in hospitals and health systems
- Pursue advanced PTCB credentials (CPhT-Adv, CSPT)
- Handle controlled substances
ExCPT
- Become a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT)
- Work in most states (some restrictions)
- Work in retail and community pharmacies
- Handle medications and customer service
Who Should Take Each Exam?
Take the PTCE if you...
- →Those wanting hospital pharmacy careers
- →Pharmacy techs seeking universal state acceptance
- →Those pursuing advanced certifications
- →Career-focused pharmacy professionals
Take the ExCPT if you...
- →Those with 1,200+ hours work experience
- →Retail pharmacy focused technicians
- →Those in states that accept ExCPT
- →Budget-conscious certification seekers
Which Should You Take First?
Choose PTCE (PTCB) if you want maximum career flexibility, hospital opportunities, or may relocate across states. Choose ExCPT only if you have 1,200+ hours experience, plan to stay in retail pharmacy, and your state accepts it. When in doubt, PTCE is the safer choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
QWhich certification is more widely accepted?
PTCE (PTCB) is universally accepted in all 50 states, DC, and territories. ExCPT is NOT accepted in Wyoming, Louisiana, Indiana, and potentially Washington and North Dakota. Always verify with your state board.
QCan employers require one over the other?
Yes. Many hospitals and health systems specifically require PTCB certification due to universal state acceptance, advanced credential pathways, and integration with accreditation requirements. Scan local job postings to see employer preferences.
QWhich exam is easier?
PTCE appears easier based on pass rates (~70% vs ~62%), fewer questions (90 vs 120), and lower experience requirements (500 vs 1,200 hours). However, both require thorough preparation.
QCan I take both exams?
Technically yes, but there's no practical benefit. Both grant the same CPhT credential. Instead, get one certification (preferably PTCB) and pursue specialty credentials like CPhT-Adv or CSPT.
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