How to become a pharmacy technician in District of Columbia
DC accepts current PTCB certification as a way to qualify for registration. So Foothills plus a passing PTCE gets you there. You also need a diploma, a background check with fingerprints, and 20 hours of CE every 2 years.
The 5 steps in District of Columbia
- Take the Foothills course. Online, self-paced, about 4 months.
- Pass the PTCE. PTCB certification is your qualifying route in DC.
- Get fingerprinted. DC requires a criminal background check and fingerprints.
- Register with the DC Board. Send your application with ID, 2 passport photos, and proof of your diploma and certification.
- Keep up with CE. 20 hours every 2 years, including 2 in law, 2 in medication safety, and 2 in LGBTQ cultural competency. The first renewal is exempt.
Costs beyond Foothills in District of Columbia
- DC registration fee (check with the Board)
- Background check and fingerprint fees
Checked against the DC Board of Pharmacy (DC Health)'s own rules in October 2026. Rules and fees change, so always confirm current details with the DC Board of Pharmacy (DC Health). Sources: 1.
Get PTCB certified from anywhere in District of Columbia
Foothills is a PTCB-recognized online program, built and taught by a licensed pharmacist with 33 years in the field. Finish it and you're eligible to sit for the PTCE.
100% online and self-paced, so it fits around work. Most students are ready in about 4 months. College programs can run $1,500 to $5,000. Foothills is about $541 start to certified.