Certification Guide - ExCPT vs PTCB - Florida
ExCPT vs PTCB: Which Pharmacy Tech Certification is Right for Florida?
Both the ExCPT (NHA) and PTCB certifications are nationally recognized and accepted by Florida pharmacy employers. This guide compares the two certifications so you can make an informed decision before sitting for your exam.
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What is the ExCPT?
The ExCPT (Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians) is administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Exam fee: ~$105. Format: 100 questions, 2 hours. Renewal: every 2 years with 20 CEUs. Widely accepted at retail chains (CVS, Walgreens, Publix) and independent pharmacies in Florida.
What is the PTCB?
The PTCB (Pharmacy Technician Certification Board) exam is the most widely recognized pharmacy tech certification in the United States. Exam fee: ~$129. Format: 90 questions, 2 hours. Renewal: every 2 years with 20 CEUs. PTCB is slightly preferred by hospital pharmacy systems.
ExCPT vs PTCB: Florida Employer Acceptance
Both are accepted by Florida Board of Pharmacy for registration. Both accepted at CVS, Walgreens, Publix. Hospital systems (Baptist Health, Jackson Health, HCA) may prefer PTCB. Compounding pharmacies generally accept either. Bottom line: either certification will get you hired in Florida. PTCB carries slightly more weight in hospital settings.
GMTTI Prepares You for Both
GMTTI's 51-week Pharmacy Technician program in Miami includes preparation for both the ExCPT and PTCB exams. After graduation, you can choose which to sit for, or sit for both. This flexibility gives GMTTI graduates a competitive advantage in the South Florida pharmacy job market.
Train for Both ExCPT and PTCB at GMTTI Miami
51-week Pharmacy Technician program. CPhT prep included. Financial aid available.
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ExCPT vs PTCB Certification — FAQ
Both are accepted by Florida employers. PTCB is slightly preferred by hospital systems. ExCPT may be slightly easier for new graduates. GMTTI prepares you for both.
Florida requires registration with the Florida Board of Pharmacy. For most pharmacy positions, CPhT certification (via either ExCPT or PTCB) is required. Both satisfy Florida Board requirements.
Generally, ExCPT is considered slightly more accessible for new graduates. PTCB has slightly more emphasis on clinical applications. GMTTI prepares students for both.