HowToGetLicensed

Pharmacy Technician License: California vs Pennsylvania

Thinking about getting your pharmacy technician license? Here's how California and Pennsylvania compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.

Requirement California Pennsylvania
Education Hours 240 hours 0 hours
Exam PTCE or ExCPT PTCE or ExCPT
Application Fee $105 $35
Exam Fee $129 $129
Total Estimated Cost $2,000 - $3,000 $500 - $1,100
Renewal Period Every 2 years Every 2 years
CE Hours 20 hours 20 hours
Renewal Fee $105 $35

Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?

Lower cost: Pennsylvania is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $500-$1,100 compared to $2,000-$3,000.

Fewer education hours: Pennsylvania requires 0 hours of pre-license education, compared to 240 hours in California.

Full State Guides

Compare pharmacy technician requirements across all 50 states →