How to become a pharmacy technician in Colorado

Colorado requires pharmacy technicians to hold a state credential and national certification. The state credential is the Pharmacy technician certification, issued by the Colorado State Board of Pharmacy.

BoardColorado State Board of Pharmacy (Division of Professions and Occupations, Department of Regulatory Agencies) official source
State credentialPharmacy technician certification (provisional certification while you get national certification) official source
Trainee credentialProvisional certification: lets you work for up to 18 months while you obtain national certification; the Board may grant a one-time, fee-waived 9-month hardship extension if you apply at least 60 days before it expires (3 CCR 719-1, Rule 29.00.50). official source
National certification (PTCB or ExCPT)Required for full (non-provisional) certification: proof of certification by a nationally recognized certification board or body approved by NABP or NCCA (3 CCR 719-1, Rule 29.00.30). Without it you can only hold the time-limited provisional certification. official source
State examNo separate state exam in the Board rules; you qualify by holding national certification. official source
Background checkProof that you submitted to a criminal history check as a condition of employment at a pharmacy, of a course of study with a certifying body, or of obtaining national certification (3 CCR 719-1, Rule 29.00.30). official source
RenewalTo renew your Colorado certification you must complete the continuing education and renewal requirements of, and keep active certification with, a Board-approved certifying organization (currently PTCB or the National Healthcareer Association). official source
Pharmacist licensePharmacists need a Colorado license: pass the NAPLEX and the Colorado MPJE. official source

Checked against official Colorado sources on Oct 20, 2026. Rules change: confirm with the board of pharmacy before you apply. This page lists only facts we could confirm on an official page.

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