Arkansas — autumn in the Ozarks

Arkansas Pharmacy Technician License

Arkansas Board of Pharmacy

Total Fee
$100
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
IdentoGO (IDEMIA)
Temp License
Not available
See board

What You'll Need

  • Pharmacy Technician Application — The official 2026 registration form (Expedited or Standard).
  • Proof of Education — Copy of high school diploma, GED, or official high school transcript showing graduation date.
  • Identification Card — A clear copy of a valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID (e.g., Driver's License).
  • Social Security Card — A clear copy of your Social Security card (no substitutions allowed).
  • CBC Identity Verification Form — The form completed by the fingerprint technician at the time of live scan or fingerprinting.

How to Apply

  1. Determine Application Type ▾
    Choose between the 'Expedited' application (for in-state applicants using electronic live scan) or the 'Standard' application (for out-of-state applicants or those using paper cards).
  2. Complete Fingerprinting ▾
    In-state applicants must use an Arkansas State Police-authorized electronic harvester for live scan fingerprinting. Out-of-state applicants must request a paper FBI fingerprint card from the Board.
  3. Fill Out Application Form ▾
    Complete the 2026 Pharmacy Technician Application in blue or black ink. Ensure all personal history questions are answered truthfully.
  4. Gather Required Documents ▾
    Prepare copies of your driver's license, Social Security card, and proof of high school graduation (diploma or transcript).
  5. Submit Application and Fee ▾
    Mail the completed application, required documents, and the $70 application fee (check or money order payable to Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy) to the Board office.
  6. Wait for Board Approval ▾
    Expedited applications with no issues are typically processed within 1-3 business days once the background check results are received by the Board.
Total Fee
$100
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not 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 Out-of-State License ▾
    Ensure your current pharmacy technician license in another state is active and in good standing.
  2. Submit Reciprocity Application ▾
    Complete the Pharmacy Technician Reciprocity Application found on the Board's forms page.
  3. Complete Arkansas Background Check ▾
    Follow the fingerprinting instructions for out-of-state applicants, which typically involves mailing a paper FBI fingerprint card.
Total Fee
$50
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Arkansas Board of Pharmacy

Keeping Your License Active

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

Fees

ItemAmount
Application$100
Endorsement application$100
Fingerprint check$35-$50 (varies by state)
Temporary permitSee board
Renewal50.0

Slow Downs

Incomplete Application ▾
Missing signatures or unanswered personal history questions will stop the processing of your application.
Incorrect Fee Amount ▾
The Board only accepts exact amounts via check or money order; cash is not accepted and incorrect amounts will cause delays.
Poor Fingerprint Quality ▾
Illegible or poor quality fingerprints will be rejected by the FBI/State Police, requiring a re-submission.
Missing Education Proof ▾
Failure to include a copy of a diploma or transcript is a frequent cause for application holds.

Questions

Is national certification (PTCB/ExCPT) required in Arkansas? ▾
No, national certification is not required for state registration, but it is highly recommended by the Board and many employers.
How long does it take to get a license? ▾
Expedited applications can be approved in 1-3 days once the background check clears. Standard processing can take 3 weeks or longer.
When does my Arkansas pharmacy technician registration expire? ▾
Registrations expire biennially on December 31st of even-numbered years.
Are there continuing education (CE) requirements for technicians? ▾
Currently, the Arkansas Board of Pharmacy does not require CE hours for the renewal of a standard technician registration.
Can I work while my application is pending? ▾
No. You must receive your certificate of registration and permit from the Board before you begin working in a pharmacy.

Board Info

Arkansas Board of Pharmacy
Phone(501) 682-0190
Sources
Last verified 2026-02-25