Arizona — Horseshoe Bend on the Colorado River

Arizona Pharmacy Technician License

Arizona Board of Pharmacy

Total Fee
$82
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
IdentoGO (IDEMIA)
Temp License
Available
See board

What You'll Need

  • Proof of Lawful Presence — A copy of a birth certificate, U.S. passport, or other document indicating authorized presence in the United States.
  • Government-issued Photo ID — A valid driver's license or state-issued identification card.
  • Proof of High School Graduation — A copy of your high school diploma, GED certificate, or official transcripts.
  • National Certification — Proof of passing the PTCB or ExCPT exam (CPhT certificate).
  • Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card — A copy of your valid, front-and-back Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card issued by AZDPS. AZDPS Portal

How to Apply

  1. Verify Eligibility ▾
    Ensure you are at least 18 years of age and possess a high school diploma or GED.
  2. Obtain Fingerprint Clearance Card ▾
    Apply for an Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card through the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS). This is a prerequisite for the full license.
    Apply for Fingerprint Card
  3. Pass National Certification Exam ▾
    Pass either the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT).
    Register for PTCB
  4. Create Online Profile ▾
    Register for an account on the Arizona Board of Pharmacy online portal to begin your application.
    Create Profile
  5. Submit Application and Documents ▾
    Complete the online Pharmacy Technician application and upload all required supporting documents, including proof of certification and your fingerprint card.
    Start Application
  6. Pay Application Fee ▾
    Submit the non-refundable application fee of $82 via the online portal.
    Pay Fee
Total Fee
$82
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Available

Transfer License

Requirements ▾
Pharmacy Technicians licensed in another state can often apply via endorsement by providing license verification and current certification.

Steps

  1. Verify National Certification ▾
    Arizona does not offer reciprocity for technicians; all out-of-state applicants must hold current PTCB or ExCPT certification.
  2. Obtain Arizona Fingerprint Card ▾
    Even if you have a background check from another state, you must obtain a specific Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card.
    Apply for AZ Fingerprint Card
  3. Submit Standard Application ▾
    Use the standard online application portal to apply for licensure as a Pharmacy Technician.
    Start Application
Total Fee
$50
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Arizona Board of Pharmacy

Keeping Your License Active

Arizona Pharmacy Technician licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Arizona Board of Pharmacy for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.

Renew on the board site

Fees

ItemAmount
Application$82
Endorsement application$82
Fingerprint check$35-$50 (varies by state)
Temporary permitSee board
Renewal50.0

Slow Downs

Fingerprint Processing ▾
The Arizona Department of Public Safety can take several weeks to issue a Fingerprint Clearance Card. Apply for this card well in advance of your license application.
Incomplete Documentation ▾
Missing proof of high school graduation or failing to upload both sides of the fingerprint card are frequent causes for application holds.
Name Discrepancies ▾
If your name on the national certification does not match your ID, you must provide legal name change documentation (e.g., marriage certificate).

Questions

Can I work while my application is pending? ▾
You may work as a Pharmacy Technician Trainee if you hold a valid trainee registration. You cannot work as a 'Pharmacy Technician' until the full license is issued.
How long is the Pharmacy Technician Trainee registration valid? ▾
The trainee registration is valid for 36 months and is non-renewable. You must obtain full licensure within this timeframe.
Do I need to submit fingerprints for my license renewal? ▾
No. Fingerprint clearance cards are only required for the initial application, not for biennial renewals.
What are the CE requirements for renewal? ▾
Technicians must complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years, including at least 3 hours related to opioids, substance-use, or addiction.

Board Info

Arizona Board of Pharmacy
Phone(602) 771-2727
Sources
Last verified 2026-02-25