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If you are interested in a career as a pharmacy technician, the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy encourages (but does not require) successful completion of a pharmacy technician training program. Although completion of a training program is not required by the state, many employers prefer candidates with an education and training. Fortunately, dozens of schools in Ohio offer competitive training programs that can help you sand out from the crowd.

According to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania-Department of State records, dated May 13, 2009, under the current law, the State Board of Pharmacy (Board) does not have the authority to register pharmacy technicians. However, pharmacy technicians must work under the immediate and personal supervision of a pharmacist. This limits the duties of a pharmacy technician to:

• Transporting Medications (around the pharmacy or store)
• Counting Medications
• Maintaining Patient Files

As of April 2012, the State of New York did not require a license, registration, or certification to work as a pharmacy technician. However, many employers do prefer applicants with a certificate, associate, or even a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy technology, pharmaceutical sciences, pharmacology, chemistry, or other related field. A certificate or a degree is especially important when it comes to advancement opportunities and pay raises.

As of January 2011, the Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation (IDFPR) requires all pharmacy technicians to obtain certification. The following materials are required to make application for a Certified Pharmacy Technician license in the state of Illinois:

1. Application for Certified Pharmacy Technician Licensure. If the name shown on your application is different from that shown on your supporting documents, you must submit proof of legal name change--a copy of marriage license, divorce decree, court order or statement explaining change and stating change was not for fraudulent purposes.