Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by WA Board of Healthcare
Pharmacy Technician Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for pharmacy technician in Washington, including See board website and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Pharmacy Technician in Washington
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See board website
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$56,140 median (29% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for Pharmacy Technician licensure.
- 2. Complete required education: No educational requirements.
- 3. Pass the required examination: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit your application to the Department of Health.
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of 56,140, Pharmacy Technicians in Washington earn 29% above the national median of 43460. Washington ranks #1 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$56,140Hourly estimate
$26.9929% above national median
Difference: +$12,680
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPharmacy Technician Salary Ranking
#1 of 50 statesfor Pharmacy Technician median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 56,140 |
| #2 | Oregon | 51,210 |
| #3 | Alaska | 50,440 |
| #4 | California | 49,640 |
| #5 | Minnesota | 48,560 |
Nearby States Comparison
Pharmacy Technician licensing across the regionLicense by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Health
101 Israel Rd SE, Tumwater, WA, 98501
Phone: 3602364700
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $105,120 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $93,730 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $68,650 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $57,040 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Pharmacy Technician in Washington?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Pharmacy Technicians in Washington?
Washington lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Pharmacy Technicians.
What education do you need to become a Pharmacy Technician in Washington?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Pharmacy Technician licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Pharmacy Technician salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Pharmacy Technicians in Washington is 56,140. Salaries range from 45550 (10th percentile) to 74370 (90th percentile).
How does the Pharmacy Technician salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Pharmacy Technicians in Washington earn 29% above the national median of 43460, with a state median of 56,140.
How many Pharmacy Technicians work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 9260 Pharmacy Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Pharmacy Technician license to Washington from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Who is the licensing agency for Pharmacy Technicians in Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Health. Review agency details at http://www.doh.wa.gov/.