Minnesota — north shore lake at dawn

Minnesota Pharmacy Technician License

Minnesota Board of Pharmacy

Total Fee
$132
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
IdentoGO / BCA
Temp License
Not available
See board

What You'll Need

  • Proof of High School Graduation — A copy of your high school diploma, high school transcript showing graduation date, or GED certificate.
  • Government-Issued Photo ID — A current driver's license, state ID, or passport to verify identity.
  • Proof of Training/Certification — If already completed, a certificate from PTCB, NHA (ExCPT), or a Board-approved vocational program.

How to Apply

  1. Create an Online Account ▾
    Register for a user account on the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy Online Services portal. Select 'Register to Access Site' and then 'NEW USER'.
  2. Submit Application ▾
    Complete the 'New Technician Registration' application within the portal. Ensure all personal information matches your government-issued ID.
  3. Pay Application Fee ▾
    Pay the non-refundable application fee of $60. Note that credit card processing fees may apply.
  4. Upload Required Documents ▾
    Upload a PDF copy of your high school diploma, transcript with graduation date, or GED certificate. You must also provide a copy of a government-issued photo ID.
  5. Verify Registration Status ▾
    Monitor the Board's license verification tool. Once approved, your registration number will appear in the search results.
    Verify License
  6. Complete Training Requirement ▾
    Within 12 months of your registration date, you must complete a Board-approved training program (e.g., PTCB, ExCPT, or an employer-based program of at least 240 hours).
    Training Requirements
Total Fee
$132
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. Apply as New Technician ▾
    Minnesota does not have a separate reciprocity or endorsement process for technicians. Out-of-state technicians must apply as a 'New Technician'.
  2. Submit Out-of-State Training ▾
    If you completed training with an out-of-state employer, submit your training documentation to the Board for review via the online portal.
  3. Meet Minnesota Standards ▾
    If your previous training does not meet Minnesota's minimum requirements, you must complete a qualifying program within 12 months of registration.
    View Training Standards
Total Fee
$50
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Minnesota Board of Pharmacy

Keeping Your License Active

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

Fees

ItemAmount
Application$100
Endorsement application$100
Fingerprint check$32.00
Temporary permitSee board
Renewal50.0

Slow Downs

Missing Education Proof ▾
Failure to upload a high school diploma or transcript is the most common reason for application holds.
Name Mismatch ▾
If your name has changed and does not match your school records, you must provide legal documentation (e.g., marriage certificate) to link the records.
Training Deadline Lapse ▾
Failing to complete and report Board-approved training within 12 months of registration will result in an 'Owes Training' status, preventing renewal.

Questions

Is national certification (PTCB/ExCPT) required in Minnesota? ▾
No, national certification is not required for registration, but it is one of the approved ways to satisfy the state's mandatory training requirement.
Do pharmacy technicians need to be fingerprinted in Minnesota? ▾
No. Because pharmacy technicians are 'registered' rather than 'licensed' in Minnesota, they are currently exempt from the fingerprint-based criminal background check required for pharmacists.
How often must I renew my technician registration? ▾
Registration must be renewed annually. It expires every year on December 31 and should be renewed by December 1 to avoid late fees.
What are the continuing education (CE) requirements? ▾
Technicians must complete 20 hours of approved CE every two years. Reporting is due by July 31 of every odd-numbered year.

Board Info

Minnesota Board of Pharmacy
Phone(651) 201-2825
Sources
State statutes
Last verified 2026-02-25