Occupational Licensing Report | The Institute for Justice

License to Work: A National Study of Burdens from Occupational Licensing

Pharmacy Technician

Highlights

License required in 12 states
46th most burdensome licensing requirements
61st most heavily regulated occupation

(Last updated April 24, 2012)

Definition

Pharmacy technicians prepare medications under the direction of a pharmacist. Workers may measure, mix, count out, label and record amounts and dosages of medications.

Summary

Twelve states require pharmacy technicians to obtain a license, though most simply impose a fee averaging $67. Seven states establish a minimum age of 16 to 18. Only Montana requires pharmacy techs to pass an exam. Three states -- California, Arizona and Illinois -- impose significant education and training requirements of two years.

(Last updated May 2, 2012)

State Licensing Requirements

Burden Rank	State	Fees	Education/Experience (Days)	Exams	Minimum Grade	Minimum Age
1	Arizona	$46	730	0	12	18
2	California	$101	730	0	12	0
3	Illinois	$40	730	0	0	16
4	Louisiana	$100	140	0	12	18
5	Montana	$60	0	1	12	18
6	Alabama	$150	0	0	12	18
7	Arkansas	$76	0	0	12	0
8	New Hampshire	$25	0	0	0	18
9	Missouri	$87	0	0	0	0
10	Minnesota	$20	0	0	0	16
11	Connecticut	$50	0	0	0	0
12	Iowa	$44	0	0	0	0

(Last updated April 24, 2012)