The Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) is a standardized test administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) to assess the knowledge and skills necessary for entry-level pharmacy technicians. The PTCE exam is 2 hours long and consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. However, only 80 of these questions are scored; the remaining 10 are unscored pretest items used to evaluate questions for future exams.
During the two-hour PTCE exam, test-takers must demonstrate competency across nine key knowledge domains, including pharmacology, pharmacy law and regulations, medication safety, sterile and non-sterile compounding, medication order entry, inventory management, billing and reimbursement, and quality assurance. Each domain carries a different weight, so it’s essential to understand the exam blueprint when preparing for the PTCE.
Because the PTCE is a timed exam, time management is crucial. On average, you’ll have about 1 minute and 20 seconds per question, so practicing with timed quizzes can help build speed and accuracy. The exam is administered year-round at Pearson VUE testing centers, and results are typically available within a few weeks.
To succeed on the PTCE, candidates should use official PTCB study materials, take full-length practice exams, and focus on high-yield topics aligned with the current PTCE content outline. Earning a passing score on the PTCE allows pharmacy technicians to become PTCB-certified, which is recognized nationwide and often required by employers.
If you’re preparing for the PTCE exam, understanding its structure including its 2-hour duration and 90-question format is the first step toward effective study planning. Proper preparation not only boosts your confidence but also increases your chances of passing on the first attempt and launching a successful career as a certified pharmacy technician.