How to Get Excpt Certification | Validity & Renewal

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ExCPT Certification
Overview for Quick Summary
What It Is
National pharmacy technician certification (CPhT) earned by passing the ExCPT exam.
How to Get It
Meet eligibility → Register → Take exam → Pass
Validity
2 years
Renewal
20 continuing education (CE) hours + renewal fee every 2 years
Cost
Exam: ~$115–$125
Renewal: ~$55

I remember the first time I heard about the ExCPT certification. I was already working in a pharmacy, thinking experience alone would be enough. It wasn’t.

If you want to work as a pharmacy technician long-term in the U.S., employers care about one thing: credentials. And one of the main ones is the ExCPT (Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians).

🙋‍♀️ Mini Quiz of the Day

Emma says: “Don’t forget to test yourself today!”

A prescription for Adderall (amphetamine salts) written 45 days ago is presented with refills remaining. What should the technician do?

What Is ExCPT Certification?

The ExCPT is a national certification exam administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). When you pass, you earn the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential.

That credential tells employers:

  • You understand pharmacy law
  • You know proper dispensing procedures
  • You understand drug classifications and safety
  • You’re trained in patient safety standards

And yes, it absolutely makes you more competitive.

What Does ExCPT Actually Test You On?

The ExCPT exam focuses on:

  • Pharmacy laws and regulations
  • Medication safety
  • Drug classifications and interactions
  • Prescription processing
  • Inventory management
  • Patient communication

In retail pharmacy settings, especially chains, certification is often required within a certain timeframe. Some states even require national certification for full technician registration.

So this isn’t optional if you’re serious about pharmacy.

How to Get ExCPT Certification (Step-by-Step)

If you’re wondering how to become ExCPT certified, here’s the clear breakdown of what actually matters — and where most candidates make mistakes.
1
Make Sure You Meet the Eligibility Requirements
To sit for the ExCPT exam, you must:
  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Have a high school diploma or GED
And meet one of the following pathways:
  • Complete a pharmacy technician training program within the last 5 years
  • OR have 1,200 hours of supervised pharmacy work experience within the last 3 years
This is where many applicants get stuck. If you do not meet one of these two pathways, you cannot register for the exam.
2
Register for the Exam
Create an account through the NHA portal (NHANow). From there:
  • Select ExCPT certification
  • Submit your application
  • Pay the exam fee
  • Schedule your testing appointment
The exam is computer-based and taken at an approved testing center. Remote testing options may be available in certain situations.
Pro tip: Schedule your exam early. Delaying your test date often increases unnecessary pressure.
3
Understand the Exam Format
Before you walk in, know the structure:
ExCPT Exam Overview: ~120 total questions
100 scored
20 pretest (not scored)
Time limit: About 2 hours and 10 minutes
Passing score: Scaled score around 390 (range 200–500)
It’s not about perfection — it’s about consistent competency. Many candidates underestimate the exam and struggle because of preparation gaps, not because the exam is impossible.

How Long Is ExCPT Certification Valid?

Your ExCPT certification is valid for 2 years from the date it’s awarded.

After that? You must renew it.

Most assume once they pass, they’re done forever. It’s not, and you have to renew it.

How to Renew ExCPT Certification?

Renewal isn’t complicated, but it requires planning.

Continuing Education Requirements

Every 2 years, you must complete:

  • 20 hours of continuing education (CE)
  • At least 1 hour in pharmacy law
  • At least 1 hour in patient safety

If you wait until the last month to do all 20 hours, you’ll hate yourself. Spread it out.

Renewal Process

Here’s how renewal works:

  1. Log into your NHA account
  2. Select “Renew Certification”
  3. Upload proof of CE completion
  4. Pay the renewal fee

Once approved, your certification extends another 2 years.

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?

There is usually a short grace period.

But:

  • Late fees may apply
  • Reinstatement fees can range significantly
  • If you wait too long, you may need to retest

And retaking the exam costs more than just renewing on time.

ExCPT Certification Cost: What You’ll Actually Pay

Before registering, it’s important to understand the full financial picture, not just the exam fee, but the long-term renewal costs as well.
Exam Fee
$115–$125
Typical range (USD)
  • One exam attempt
  • Certification issuance if you pass
  • If you fail, you must pay the full exam fee again to retake.
Renewal Fee (Every 2 Years)
$55
Approximate renewal cost (USD)
  • Required to maintain active certification status
  • Continuing education requirements must also be met
  • Late renewal fees: ~$25–$95 depending on delay length
Always verify pricing directly through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) before registering. Certification and renewal fees may change over time.

Is ExCPT Certification Worth It?

Yes, it is worth it.

Certified technicians often earn higher pay than non-certified techs. Many employers prefer or require national certification.

It opens doors to hospital pharmacy positions and signals professionalism and competence.

According to workforce data trends in pharmacy technician employment, certified techs are generally more competitive in both retail and hospital settings.