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Massachusetts Pharmacy Technician License

Massachusetts Board of Pharmacy

Total Fee
$100
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
IdentoGO (IDEMIA)
Temp License
Not available
See board

What You'll Need

  • Passport-sized Photo — A recent 2x2 inch color passport-style photograph.
  • Proof of Education — Copy of high school diploma, transcript, or GED certificate.
  • National Certification — Proof of passing the PTCB or ExCPT exam (wallet card or certificate).
  • CORI Acknowledgement Form — Signed authorization for a Massachusetts criminal background check.
  • Verification of Licensure — If licensed in another state, a verification of licensure from that state's Board of Pharmacy.

How to Apply

  1. Meet Eligibility Requirements ▾
    Ensure you are at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.
  2. Obtain Certification or Training ▾
    Pass a Board-approved national exam (PTCB or ExCPT) or complete a Board-approved training program including 500 hours of experience as a trainee.
    PTCB Registration
  3. Create Portal Account ▾
    Register for an account on the Massachusetts Health Professions Licensing Portal.
  4. Submit Online Application ▾
    Complete the 'Pharmacy Technician' application within the portal and upload required documents.
  5. Pay Application Fee ▾
    Pay the non-refundable application fee of $150 via the online portal.
  6. Complete CORI Background Check ▾
    Submit the Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) acknowledgement form as part of the application process.
Total Fee
$100
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. Verify Out-of-State License ▾
    Ensure your current pharmacy technician license in another state is active and in good standing.
  2. Submit Verification ▾
    Request an official verification of licensure from your home state board to be sent directly to the Massachusetts Board.
  3. Apply via Portal ▾
    Select the Pharmacy Technician application in the MA Health Professions Licensing Portal and indicate you are applying by reciprocity/endorsement.
  4. Complete Background Check ▾
    Complete the required CORI background check authorization.
Total Fee
$50
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Massachusetts Board of Pharmacy

Keeping Your License Active

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

Fees

ItemAmount
Application$100
Endorsement application$100
Fingerprint check$35-$50 (varies by state)
Temporary permitSee board
Renewal50.0

Slow Downs

Incomplete CORI Form ▾
Missing signatures or incorrect personal information on the CORI form will halt the background check process.
Verification Delays ▾
Waiting for other state boards to send license verifications can take several weeks.
Photo Quality ▾
Uploading a photo that does not meet passport standards (e.g., blurry, incorrect size) will require a resubmission.
Disclosure Issues ▾
Failure to disclose criminal history that appears on the CORI check can lead to significant delays or denial based on 'Good Moral Character' requirements.

Questions

Is continuing education (CE) required for renewal? ▾
The Massachusetts Board of Pharmacy does not currently require CE for the renewal of a state pharmacy technician license. However, if you are nationally certified (CPhT), you must meet the CE requirements of your certifying body (PTCB or NHA).
How often must I renew my license? ▾
Licenses must be renewed every two years, specifically on the licensee's birthday.
Can I work as a technician while my application is pending? ▾
No, you must be licensed by the Board before beginning employment. You may work as a Pharmacy Technician-in-Training if you hold that specific trainee license.
What is the minimum age to become a pharmacy technician? ▾
You must be at least 18 years old for a full Pharmacy Technician license. Individuals as young as 16 may apply for a Pharmacy Technician-in-Training license.

Board Info

Massachusetts Board of Pharmacy
Phone(800) 414-0168
Sources
Last verified 2026-02-25