1. What are the CE requirements to renew my pharmacy technician (TCH) license?

Effective January 1, 2024, TCH licensees must successfully complete at least one hour of participation in a cultural competency course each renewal period (i.e., every two years) (see Business and Professions Code section 4202(d)). Please note, all CE must be completed prior to signing and submitting your renewal application. The term “cultural competency course” means a cultural competency and humility course that meets the following criteria, as outlined in Business and Professions Code section 4231(a):

1. The course focuses on patients who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, gender nonconforming, or queer, or who question their sexual orientation or gender identity and expression.
2. The course is approved from an accreditation agency approved by the Board.
3. The course covers recognized health disparities faced by Black, Indigenous, and people of color.
4. The course contains elements demonstrating how sexual identity is directly impacted through intersectionality.

2. Does the California State Board of Pharmacy (Board) have a list of recommended CE providers and/or courses?

No. The Board does not maintain a list of CE providers/courses and does not endorse or recommend any specific provider or course. The Board recommends that, prior to registering for any cultural competency course, licensees confirm compliance with the course provider to ensure the course meets the requirements set forth in Business and
Professions Code section 4231(a).

3. Do I need to submit proof of completion of CE with my license renewal application?

You do not need to submit proof of completion of CE with your renewal application. If you are randomly selected for an audit of your CE compliance, the Board will send a letter to your address of record requesting proof of successful completion of CE.

4. Why has my license status been changed to “CE Inadequate – License Held” even though I completed my CE?

Your license status has been changed to “CE Inadequate – License Held” because you failed to answer the continuing education question on your renewal application.  In order to change your license status back to “active”, you will need to download a new renewal application and complete it in its entirety: https://pharmacy.ca.gov/licensees/personal/tch.shtml.
Please email your completed renewal application to renewalstatus@dca.ca.gov so we may resolve this for you. Once Board staff has reviewed your amended renewal application, your updated license status will be reflected on the Board’s website.

5. Can the Board issue an extension if I cannot finish my CE on time?

No. Currently, there is no provision in pharmacy law for the Board to grant any TCH licensee an extension to complete the required CE for renewal of their license.

6. Can the Board issue an exemption from completion of the cultural competency CE renewal requirement for a TCH license?

No. Currently, there is no provision in pharmacy law for the Board to grant a TCH licensee an exemption from completion of the required CE for renewal of their license.

7. Aside from the cultural competency CE requirement, are there any other CE requirements for pharmacy technicians to renew their Board-issued license?

No. However, if you hold a CPhT certificate, you may wish to contact the issuing organization (PTCB or NHA) directly regarding their CE requirements. The Board is not associated with PTCB or NHA.

Should you have any further questions, please contact the CE desk via email at Pharmacy.CE@dca.ca.gov.