Renewing your pharmacy technician license in Minnesota is a crucial step to continue working in the field. The Minnesota Board of Pharmacy requires pharmacy technicians to renew their licenses periodically to ensure they stay up-to-date with the latest developments and maintain the highest standards of practice. In this article, we will guide you through the 5 steps to renew your MN pharmacy tech license.
Understanding the Renewal Process
Before we dive into the steps, it's essential to understand the renewal process. The Minnesota Board of Pharmacy requires pharmacy technicians to renew their licenses every two years. The renewal period typically opens 60 days before the expiration date of your current license. It's crucial to renew your license on time to avoid any late fees or penalties.
Step 1: Meet the Continuing Education Requirements
To renew your pharmacy technician license, you must complete the required continuing education (CE) hours. The Minnesota Board of Pharmacy requires pharmacy technicians to complete 20 hours of CE every two years, with at least 2 hours focused on patient safety. You can complete your CE hours through various providers, including the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), or the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
To renew your pharmacy technician license, you'll need to gather the required documents, including:
- Your current pharmacy technician license
- Proof of completing the required CE hours
- A government-issued ID, such as a driver's license or passport
Make sure you have all the required documents before proceeding with the renewal process.
Step 3: Submit Your Renewal Application
Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can submit your renewal application. You can renew your license online through the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy's website or by mail. If you're renewing online, you'll need to create an account and follow the prompts to complete the application. If you're renewing by mail, make sure to include all the required documents and the renewal fee.
Step 4: Pay the Renewal Fee
The renewal fee for pharmacy technicians in Minnesota is currently $50. You can pay the fee online or by check if you're renewing by mail. Make sure to include the fee with your application to avoid any delays.
Step 5: Maintain Your Certification (Optional)
If you're certified as a pharmacy technician, you may need to maintain your certification through the PTCB or another certifying organization. While certification is not required in Minnesota, it's highly recommended to demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field. Make sure to check with your certifying organization for specific requirements and deadlines.
Conclusion
Renewing your pharmacy technician license in Minnesota is a straightforward process that requires completing the required CE hours, gathering documents, submitting your application, paying the renewal fee, and maintaining your certification (if applicable). By following these steps, you'll be able to continue working as a pharmacy technician in Minnesota and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field.
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FAQs
How often do I need to renew my pharmacy technician license in Minnesota?
+You need to renew your pharmacy technician license every two years.
What are the continuing education requirements for pharmacy technicians in Minnesota?
+You need to complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years, with at least 2 hours focused on patient safety.
How much is the renewal fee for pharmacy technicians in Minnesota?
+The renewal fee is currently $50.