Question 1
A technician enters a prescription for Eliquis 5 mg. Which generic name should appear on the label?
The PTCB exam, explained
The Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) has 90 multiple-choice questions in 1 hour 50 minutes. Pass it, and meet PTCB's other requirements, to earn the CPhT credential.
| Questions | 90 multiple choice: 80 scored, 10 unscored |
|---|---|
| Time | 1 hour 50 minutes |
| Passing score | 1,400 on a scale of 1,000 to 1,600 |
| Cost | $129 to apply and take the exam |
| Where | Pearson VUE test centers across the US |
What the exam covers
PTCB's content outline, in effect since 6 January 2026, splits the exam into four knowledge domains:
- Medications: 35%
- Patient Safety and Quality Assurance: 23.75%
- Order Entry and Processing: 22.5%
- Federal Requirements: 18.75%
Who can apply
You must live in the United States or its territories. There are two routes: complete a PTCB-Recognized Education/Training Program (or finish one within 60 days of applying, or hold a pharmacy degree), or have at least 500 hours of work experience as a pharmacy technician, completed when you apply.
On the day
Plan for two hours: a 5-minute tutorial, the 1 hour 50 minute exam and a 5-minute survey. Arrive 30 minutes early with an ID that matches the name on your PTCB account. The 10 unscored questions are placed at random and not marked, so answer every question.
Try 3 questions
Question 2
A prescriber writes a lorazepam prescription with "refill 8 times." Under federal law, what is the most the pharmacy may dispense in refills?
Question 3
A 5 mL bottle of eye drops is prescribed: i gtt ou bid. Assume 20 drops per mL. What is the days supply?
Next step
Questions people ask
How many questions are on the PTCB exam?
90 multiple-choice questions. 80 are scored and 10 are unscored, placed at random and not identified.
How long is the PTCB exam?
1 hour 50 minutes for the questions. With the tutorial and the survey, the appointment takes about two hours.
When do I get my result?
An unofficial result shows on screen. PTCB says official results usually come within three weeks.