BECOMING A PHARMACY TECHNICIAN IN IDAHO
Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists by dispensing prescriptions, managing inventory, and completing other administrative work. The job is ideal for those who enjoy healthcare and the opportunity to help others. Pharmacy technicians are in high demand throughout the country, but each state has its licensing requirements. The following information will help you become a pharmacy technician in Idaho. [Leer en español]
BASIC REQUIREMENTS
Pharmacy technicians must be at least 18 years old to practice in Idaho, though 16-year-olds may register as pharmacy technicians in training if they are currently enrolled in a school-supervised program and receive a waiver. Pharmacy technicians must submit to a background check and have a high school diploma or GED, a copy of which should be submitted along with fingerprints, a copy of their government-issued ID, and a Non-Criminal Justice Applicant Privacy Statement.
PHARMACY TECHNICIAN SCHOOLS IN IDAHO
Community colleges and technical schools throughout Idaho offer pharmacy technician programs for aspiring pharmacy techs. Be sure that the program you select is approved by the State Board before enrolling. The following pharmacy technician schools offer acceptable programs:
- Carrington College. Carrington offers a nine-month certificate program and a two-year associate’s degree program for pharmacy technicians. Both offer theory and practical training elements to prepare students for real-world work.
- North Idaho College. Students at North Idaho College will learn through online theory courses, on-campus labs, and experiential learning opportunities in the community. The program teaches a basic understanding of anatomy, physiology, pharmacy law, and the classification and use of 200 prescription drugs.
- Idaho State University. Idaho State operates basic and advanced technical certificate programs, which can be completed in one to one-and-a-half years. Students will participate in labs, classroom instruction, and practicums at local pharmacies.
- Penn Foster Career School. Penn Foster offers an affordable, ASHP Accredited online Pharmacy Technician training program. More information.
CERTIFICATION AND LICENSING REQUIREMENTS
Before beginning work in a pharmacy, pharmacy technicians and technicians in training must register with the Idaho Board of Pharmacy, which will issue a license after receiving a completed application and proof of the applicant’s graduation from an accredited training program. This license must be renewed each year before June 30.
The state of Idaho does not require pharmacy technicians to have national certification. However, receiving this certification can lead to higher-paying jobs in the future and will earn technicians the title of Certified Pharmacy Technician. To apply, pharmacy technicians must register with the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board and have a high school diploma or GED. They must also take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam and pay a fee of $129. Certified pharmacy technicians must complete continuing education requirements and renew their certification every two years to maintain it.
CAREER OUTLOOK AND SALARY EXPECTATIONS
Jobs for pharmacy technicians are expected to grow rapidly in Idaho. According to the Projections Managing Partnership, the field will increase by 22.5 percent in the 10 years to 2026. The national average growth rate during the same period, meanwhile, is 12 percent.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the average annual salary for a pharmacy technician in Idaho is $36,910. This salary can be higher for those with national certification.
WORKING AS A PHARMACY TECHNICIAN IN IDAHO
Pharmacy technicians can work in a variety of settings, including independent or chain drugstores, hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. Part-time and full-time roles are available. Many pharmacies are open late, so you may be asked to work nights or weekends. Be prepared to stand for long periods and lift heavy loads of medication as well. The highest-paying jobs can be found in cities like Boise, which offer higher salaries to compensate for the cost of living. However, pharmacy technicians are in high demand and work can be found throughout the state.
FAQS
What are the best pharmacy technician schools in Idaho?
- Carrington College, Boise
- Idaho State University, Pocatello
- Penn Foster Career School, Online
- Ashworth College, Online
- Rasmussen College, Online
How do you become a pharmacy technician in Idaho?
- You must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. (16
- -year-olds may register if enrolled in a school-supervised program
- Obtain Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) certification
- You must complete a background check
- You must complete a fingerprint check
- Obtain 20 hours of continuing education every 2 years, including 2 hours of pharmacy law
How much do pharmacy technicians make in Idaho?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, pharmacy technicians in the state of Idaho made an average of $35,920 per year in 2018. Entry-level pharm techs earned around $25,870 and some experienced professionals earned as much as $48,160.
College Listings
OUT-OF-STATE OPTIONS
Residents of Idaho may also wish to review their options in Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, and Montana.