How to Renew Pharmacy Tech License After It Expires
Life can get busy, and you may only remember that your pharmacy tech license is about to expire once it already has. If that happens, though, it’s important to quickly begin renewing it so that you can continue to work at your current job.
Are you curious about how to renew your pharmacy tech license after it expires? Discover how to renew with as little hassle as possible.
Steps to Renew an Expired Pharmacy Tech License
The moment that your pharmacy tech license expires, you are no longer able to work in the state as a pharmacy tech. If you have certification, you also aren’t allowed to use the CPhT credentials once your license expires. To renew your pharmacy tech license, there are a few steps you need to follow.
Step 1: Check Your State’s Licensing Requirements
As you learn how to renew a pharmacy tech license after it expires, the first step is to find out what your state’s requirements are. Each state has its own rules for the renewal process once the expiration date has passed.
New Jersey, for example, allows you to renew the license online through the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs website. Most states require that you get continuing education (CE) credits, but the exact number you’ll need will depend on the state.
You can find all the information you need to understand what your state’s laws are regarding licensing by visiting the state's pharmacy board.
Step 2: Gather Necessary Documentation
As you get ready to renew your license, you should gather all the information you need so that you can efficiently get through the process. Make sure that you have your expired license information with you because you will need all of its details.
If your state requires that you get continuing education credits, get proof that you have completed these, too. Your state’s pharmacy board can give you an idea of the type of proof you’ll need for these.
Many states let you file for a renewal after your license has expired online, but not all of them do. Find out what forms you will need to print out and mail if that’s the process in your state. You should also be ready to pay your application fee when you present the forms.
Step 3: Continuing Education (CE) Credits
If your state does require continuing education credits, you should check with the pharmacy board to ensure you take the right courses. In California, for example, you will need to complete at least one hour of a cultural competency course, along with other CE hours.
Texas requires that pharmacy techs seeking renewal get at least 20 hours on a variety of subjects, including pharmacy law and patient safety. Keep in mind that the majority of state pharmacy boards won’t recommend particular CE providers.
You will have to look for programs, such as RxCe, that are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education.
Step 4: Submit Your Renewal Application
Once the CE credits have been reported to CE Broker or CPE Monitor, you can begin the license renewal process online. You can do so through your state’s pharmacy board if they allow you to use their portal. If your license has remained expired for months, that may not be possible, so remember to check the site.
Carefully check all the information before submitting it, and make sure CE Credits are recorded in NABP’s CE Monitor and all other requirements are met. Otherwise, the renewal request will be denied.
You’ll need to have a credit card to pay online, but most sites will also allow you to print a copy of your application summary and mail it with a cashier’s check to the appropriate address.
Can You Work While Your License Is Expired?
In the states that require you to have a license, you’re not allowed to work with an expired one. Each state determines whether a grace period is permissible to have the license reinstated, so you must act quickly.
Some states allow you to obtain temporary licensure, which typically lasts about three months. That will let you continue working while you wait for reinstatement.
FAQs About Pharmacy Tech License Renewal
If you’ve noticed your pharmacy license has expired, you likely have lots of questions about what this means. RxCe can provide the answers.
What Happens if I Renew Late but Before a Certain Grace Period?
If you renew your license late but before the grace period ends, you’ll typically be able to have the license reinstated more rapidly. If you wait until the grace period is over, you may risk needing to go through a much more complex process.
Are There Additional Penalties or Fees for Renewing an Expired License?
There will usually be additional fees when sending in your renewal application. The exact amount will vary depending on your state.
Can I Renew Online, or Do I Need to Apply in Person?
The majority of states will allow you to apply online if you are still within the grace period. If not, then you may have to speak with your state’s pharmacy board to know what the next steps are. You may have to go in person.
How Can RxCe Help You With Pharmacy Technician License Renewal?
Renewing your license, even if it has expired, can be much easier if you can get your CE credits efficiently. That’s what RxCe can help you do. We offer a wide selection of continuing education courses that you’ll need to renew your license.
The credits are automatically reported to CPE Monitor or CE Broker, ensuring that there will be no complications when you file your application. Additionally, we price our courses competitively so that you never have to delay completing the requirements you need because of financial issues.
Check out our courses to find the best ones for your needs.
