California Pharmacy Technician License
California Board of Pharmacy
Total Fee
$169
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
California DOJ LiveScan
Temp License
Not available
See board
What You'll Need
- Pharmacy Technician Application (Form 17A-7) — The primary application form, signed and dated within 60 days of submission. Download Form
- Passport-Style Photo — A 2x2 inch color passport-style photo taken within the last 60 days.
- High School Transcript or GED — Official, sealed transcript or a notarized copy of your high school diploma/GED.
- NPDB Self-Query Report — Original, sealed envelope containing your report from the National Practitioner Data Bank. NPDB Website
- Proof of Qualification — Certified copy of PTCB/NHA certificate or the Affidavit of Completed Coursework (page 4 of application).
- Live Scan Receipt — The second copy of the 'Request for Live Scan Service' form confirming prints were taken.
How to Apply
-
Verify Eligibility ▾Ensure you are at least 18 years of age and have graduated from a high school or possess a GED.
View Eligibility Requirements -
Obtain Qualifying Certification or Training ▾Complete a board-approved training program or obtain national certification through PTCB or NHA (ExCPT).
Register for PTCB Exam -
Request NPDB Self-Query Report ▾Order a Self-Query Report from the National Practitioner Data Bank. Do not open the envelope when it arrives; it must remain sealed.
Request NPDB Report -
Complete Fingerprinting ▾California residents must use Live Scan. Out-of-state applicants must request fingerprint cards from the Board.
-
Submit Application and Fee ▾Complete Form 17A-7 and mail it to the Board with the $120 application fee (check or money order) and all required documents.
Download Application Packet -
Track Application Status ▾Allow 30-45 days for processing. You will receive an email acknowledgement once your payment is processed.
Total Fee
$169
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
-
Verify Out-of-State License ▾Ensure your current license in another state is in good standing.
-
Obtain National Certification ▾California requires national certification (PTCB or NHA) or completion of a board-approved program for all applicants, including those from out-of-state.
PTCB Certification -
Request Fingerprint Cards ▾If outside California, contact the Board to request manual fingerprint cards (FD-258).
Request Cards -
Submit Standard Application ▾Follow the same application process as in-state applicants using the standard 17A-7 packet.
Download Packet
Total Fee
$50
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
California Board of Pharmacy
Keeping Your License Active
California Pharmacy Technician licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the California Board of Pharmacy for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Visit board siteFees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $120 |
| Endorsement application | $120 |
| Fingerprint check | $49.00 |
| Temporary permit | See board |
| Renewal | 50.0 |
Slow Downs
Opened NPDB Report
▾
The NPDB Self-Query report must be submitted in its original, sealed envelope. If opened, it will be rejected.
Name Discrepancies
▾
The name on the application must exactly match the name on your government ID and fingerprint records.
Missing Signatures
▾
Applications must have original signatures and be dated within 60 days of filing.
Incomplete Fingerprinting
▾
Failure to ensure the Live Scan operator selects both DOJ and FBI levels of service.
Questions
How long does it take to get a California Pharmacy Technician license?
▾
The Board typically takes 30 to 45 days to process a complete application. You should wait at least 45 days before inquiring about status.
What is the application fee for a Pharmacy Technician in California?
▾
As of January 1, 2025, the non-refundable application fee is $120.
Are there continuing education (CE) requirements for technicians?
▾
Yes. Technicians must complete at least 1 hour of cultural competency CE every two-year renewal period.
Can I apply for my initial license online?
▾
No. Initial Pharmacy Technician applications must be submitted by mail. Renewals can be done online via the BreEZe portal.
Does California accept both PTCB and NHA certifications?
▾
Yes, the Board accepts both the PTCB (PTCE) and the NHA (ExCPT) certifications for licensure.