Licensing Path
There is no active interstate compact route for pharmacy technician licensing in Washington. Plan on endorsement through Washington Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission.
- Endorsement fee
- $140
- Processing time
- See board
- Fingerprinting
- Required
- Temporary license
- Available
- Compact
- No active compact path
- Board
- Washington Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission
From the board
Board-checked 2026-03-18. Any field still marked "See board" has not been confirmed yet.
Endorsement Steps
-
Step 1
Complete Education Requirements
Complete a ASHP-accredited pharmacy technician program or equivalent training and any required clinical practicum or fieldwork.
-
Step 2
Pass the PTCB
Successfully pass the required PTCB (Pharmacy Technician Certification Board) or ExCPT exam.
-
Step 3
Submit Application and Fees
Complete the state application, undergo a background check if required, and submit the necessary licensing fees.
Quick Facts
- Total fee
- $140
- Processing time
- See board
- Renewal fee
- $140
- Renewal cycle
- Every 2 years, on or before your birthday
- Application
- $140
- Background check
- See board
- Jurisprudence exam
- $0
- Total estimated cost
- See board
Any fee field still marked "See board" has not been confirmed from the board yet.
License Types
Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT): The standard credential to practice as a pharmacy technician in Washington.
Required Documents
- Official Transcripts: Sent directly from your educational institution.
- Exam Score Report: Official verification of passing the PTCB (Pharmacy Technician Certification Board) or ExCPT exam.
Board Contact
- Board
- Washington Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission
- Department
- Washington State Department of Health (DOH)
- Phone
- (360) 236-4946
- See board website
- Board site
- https://doh.wa.gov/licenses-permits-and-certificates/professions-new-renew-or-update/pharmacy-professions/licensing-information
Source: Primary board website
Renewal
Renewal fee is $140. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years, on or before your birthday.
Washington Pharmacy Technician Licensing FAQ
How much does a Washington pharmacy technician license cost?
The Washington Department of Health lists a $140 original pharmacy technician credential fee and a $140 renewal fee.
Is national certification required?
Yes, passing the PTCB (Pharmacy Technician Certification Board) or ExCPT exam is a standard requirement for initial licensure across almost all states.
Does Washington have reciprocity for pharmacy technicians?
No interstate compact currently covers pharmacy technician practice in Washington. To work in Washington, apply for licensure by endorsement through the state board.
How long does it take to transfer my pharmacy technician license to Washington?
Verify the current fee and processing timeline on the primary board page linked below. Those details are still being re-checked state by state for this specialty.
Can I start working in Washington while my endorsement application is processing?
Verify the current fee and processing timeline on the primary board page linked below. Those details are still being re-checked state by state for this specialty.