ExCPT vs PTCB

What's the difference between the
PTCB and ExCPT Exams ?

Once in a while a visitor asks about the difference between the
ExCPT and PTCB exams. Another question that many have is what the difference is between the two organizations.


Here are some basic answers
about the two (similar but different) organizations.


• The PTCB and the ICPT both offer national certification for pharmacy technicians.

• The PTCB exam is the PTCE (Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam).

• The ICPT exam is the ExCPT (Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians).

The biggest concern that you'll need to address is
Which organization is accepted in your state? Which leads us into the second biggest difference between the PTCE and the ExCPT.

• The PTCE is more widely recognized and endorsed. The PTCB has been around longer and therefore more established. However, there is no evidence that one is more difficult than the other.

Some speculation has been mentioned on discussion boards that the ExCPT is more geared toward retail pharmacy and the PTCE is split more evenly with hospital pharmacy.




Each of the two have easily navigated websites and will tell you if your state accepts their certification.


PTCB Screenshot

ExCPT Screenshot




                        PTCB Website                                                                                     ExCPT Website










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