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Welcome to our official exam prep page for the PTCB (Pharmacy Technician Certification Board) and NHA (ExCPT) exams. This guide is designed to help you understand both certification options, what to expect, how to register, and how to prepare.
 

Certification Options

Brilliantaires graduates are eligible to sit for either of the following nationally recognized exams:

✅ PTCB – Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE)

Administered by: Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB)

Certification: CPhT (Certified Pharmacy Technician)

Website: www.ptcb.org

✅ NHA – Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT)

Administered by: National Healthcareer Association (NHA)

Certification: CPhT (Certified Pharmacy Technician)

Website: www.nhanow.com

Exam Format & Structure

Both the PTCB (PTCE) and NHA (ExCPT) exams are computer-based multiple-choice tests, 

but there are a few key differences in how they’re structured.

The PTCE includes 90 questions, of which 80 are scored and 10 are unscored pilot questions. 

You’ll have 2 hours to complete the exam, which is administered at Pearson VUE testing centers or through online proctoring.

The ExCPT, offered by the NHA, consists of 100 questions, with 80 scored and 20 unscored questions. 

You'll have 2 hours and 10 minutes to complete it. 

The exam is taken at PSI testing centers or remotely online with a live proctor.

Both exams are designed to assess your knowledge of medications, federal regulations, quality assurance, order processing, and pharmacy workflow. They are timed, closed-book, and must be taken in a secure testing environment—whether in-person or online.

Exam Content Outline & Passing Scores

PTCB (PTCE) Exam Domains:

• Medications – 40%
• Federal Requirements – 12.5%
• Patient Safety & Quality Assurance – 26.25%
• Order Entry & Processing – 21.25%
• You need a score of 1,400 out of 1,600 to pass
• Scoring scale: 1,000–1,600
• Results are typically available immediately after testing

NHA (ExCPT) Exam Domains:

• Overview & Laws – 15%
• Drugs & Drug Therapy – 25%
• Dispensing Process – 45%
• Medication Safety & Quality Assurance – 15%
• You need a score of 390 out of 500 to pass
• Scoring scale: 200–500
• Results are usually available within 48 hours

📅 What to Expect on Test Day

Bring a valid, unexpired photo ID

Arrive 30 minutes early

Lockers provided for personal items

Calculator is built into testing software

Online proctoring: Clean desk, webcam, ID verification, quiet space

Pharmacy Technician Pay Averages

National Averages (U.S.)

Pharmacy Technician (non-certified): $18.50/hour

Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT): $20.50/hour

Hospital or IV Techs: $23–28/hour (often higher with differentials)

Wisconsin Averages

Entry-level: $16–18/hour

Certified Techs: $19–23/hour

Hospital/Specialty Roles: Up to $26/hour or more

Indiana Averages

Entry-level: $15–17/hour

Certified Techs: $18–21/hour

Hospital/Specialty Roles: $22–25/hour

Is the Test Hard?

The PTCB (PTCE) and NHA (ExCPT) exams are challenging, but very passable—especially with the training you receive through Brilliantaires.

Most students find the test difficult only if they aren't prepared, but with our program, you're guided step-by-step to build the knowledge and confidence you need to succeed.

Here’s what makes the test easier:

✅ You've completed a structured program with exam-aligned material

✅ You’ve practiced with real test-style questions

✅ You understand drug names, calculations, laws, and workflows

✅ You know what to expect on test day

“I was nervous, but the Brilliantaires course made the test feel familiar. I passed on the first try!” – Recent Graduate

🚨 What makes it hard?

❌ Not studying consistently

❌ Skipping practice exams

❌ Not understanding key topics like dosage calculations, federal laws, or medication categories

❌ Trying to "cram" at the last minute

📈 Pass Rates (National Averages)

PTCB (PTCE): Around 70–75% of candidates pass on the first try

NHA (ExCPT): Around 65–70% pass on the first try

These numbers include everyone, even those who didn’t complete a training program—

your chances are much higher with Brilliantaires.

Our Tip:

Don’t fear the test—prepare for it. Attend every class, complete your assignments, ask for help when needed, and take our practice exams seriously. If you follow the program, you can and will pass.

Retaking the Exam

PTCE (PTCB):

• Wait 60 days to retake
• Maximum 4 attempts
• After 4 fails, must reapply and provide further documentation

ExCPT (NHA):

• 30-day waiting period
• May test 3 times before needing to submit additional documentation