Key Takeaways
- The ExCPT is administered by NHA as an alternative to PTCE for pharmacy technician certification.
- Exam format: 120 questions (100 scored + 20 pretest) in 2 hours 10 minutes.
- Passing scaled score is 390 on a scale of 200 to 500.
- Exam fee is approximately \$117-129 with results available immediately.
- More flexible eligibility: training program OR 1,200 hours work experience.
About the ExCPT Exam
Quick Answer: The ExCPT is a 100-question, 130-minute exam with a passing score of 390 (on a 200-500 scale) and approximately $117-129 fee. It qualifies you as a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). You need a training program or 1,200 hours of work experience.
The ExCPT (Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians) is administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) and serves as an alternative to the PTCB's PTCE for pharmacy technician certification.
Exam Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians |
| Administered By | NHA (via PSI testing centers) |
| Questions | 120 multiple-choice (100 scored + 20 pretest) |
| Time Limit | 2 hours 10 minutes (130 minutes) |
| Passing Score | 390 scaled score (range: 200-500) |
| Cost | $117-129 |
| Testing Options | In-person at PSI centers or live remote proctoring |
What Does the CPhT Credential Allow?
Passing the ExCPT and earning CPhT certification qualifies you to:
- Work as a certified pharmacy technician in retail, hospital, and specialty pharmacies
- Assist pharmacists with medication dispensing and preparation
- Handle controlled substances under pharmacist supervision
- Process prescriptions and manage medication orders
- Meet employer requirements that require national certification
Note: Both PTCE and ExCPT lead to the CPhT credential. Most states and employers accept either certification. The ExCPT is known for more flexible eligibility requirements.
ExCPT vs PTCE Comparison
| Feature | ExCPT (NHA) | PTCE (PTCB) |
|---|---|---|
| Questions | 100 scored + 20 pretest | 80 scored + 10 pretest |
| Time | 2 hours 10 minutes | 1 hour 50 minutes |
| Passing Score | 390/500 | 1,400/1,600 |
| Cost | ~$117-129 | $129 |
| Pass Rate | ~63% | ~70% |
| Experience Option | 1,200 hours (3 years) | 500 hours |
| Renewal | Every 2 years (20 CE) | Every 2 years (20 CE) |
Eligibility Requirements
To take the ExCPT, you must have a high school diploma or GED AND meet ONE of these pathways:
| Pathway | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Pathway 1 | Complete a pharmacy technician training program within the last 5 years |
| Pathway 2 | Have 1,200+ hours of supervised pharmacy work experience within the last 3 years |
Additional Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must have a valid high school diploma or GED
- Must comply with all NHA policies
Exam Structure by Domain
The ExCPT covers three major knowledge domains:
| Domain | Description | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Overview and Laws | Role of pharmacy tech, regulations, controlled substances | 25% |
| Dispensing Process | Prescription handling, calculations, compounding, billing | 55% |
| Drugs and Drug Therapy | Drug classifications, mechanisms, interactions | 20% |
Retake Policy
| Attempt | Waiting Period |
|---|---|
| 1st attempt | N/A |
| 2nd attempt | 30-day waiting period |
| 3rd attempt | 30-day waiting period |
| After 3 attempts | Must wait 1 year before retaking |
Certification Renewal
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Validity | 2 years |
| CE Hours Required | 20 hours minimum |
| Pharmacy Law | At least 1 hour required |
| Patient Safety | At least 1 hour required |
| Renewal Fee | $55 |
| Late Fee | $25 additional |
| Reinstatement Fee | $95 (if expired over 1 year) |
How many questions are on the ExCPT exam, and how many are scored?
What is the passing scaled score for the ExCPT?
Which organization administers the ExCPT exam?