PTCE – Pharmacy Technician Practice Quiz — 20 Free Sample Questions
The Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) tests knowledge of medications, pharmacy law, patient safety, and order processing. Administered by PTCB, this nationally recognized credential is required for pharmacy technicians in most states. Our quiz targets the four core domains to help you prepare for the real exam.
A prescription reads: "Take 2 tablets twice daily." The dispensed quantity is 60 tablets. What is the days supply?
About the PTCE – Pharmacy Technician
The PTCE is administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and consists of 90 multiple-choice questions, 80 of which are scored. You have 2 hours to complete the exam. The four domains and their approximate weighting are: Medications (40%), Federal Requirements (12.5%), Patient Safety and Quality Assurance (26.25%), and Order Entry and Processing (21.25%). Passing scores are set by PTCB and adjusted periodically. The exam requires familiarity with the top 200 prescription medications by brand and generic names, drug classifications, common side effects, and therapeutic uses. Federal requirements tested include controlled substance schedules, DEA regulations, HIPAA basics, and the difference between OTC and prescription medications. Patient safety questions focus on error prevention, look-alike/sound-alike drugs, ISMP guidelines, and high-alert medications. Order entry and processing covers sig codes, days supply calculations, NDC numbers, and insurance billing basics. Pharmacy technicians earn median salaries of $35,000-$45,000, with certified technicians typically earning more and having greater advancement opportunities. Preparation typically takes 3-6 months and benefits greatly from memorizing the top 200 drugs, practicing pharmacy math, and studying federal regulations systematically.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are on the PTCE?
The PTCE has 90 questions (80 scored, 10 unscored). You have 2 hours to complete it.
What score do I need to pass the PTCE?
PTCB uses a scaled score from 1000-1600. A score of 1400 or higher is required to pass.
How long should I study for the PTCE?
Most candidates study 1-3 months. Focus on top 200 drugs, pharmacy calculations, and federal regulations.
Does the PTCE require pharmacy math?
Yes. Expect questions on days supply, dosage calculations, concentration percentages, and IV flow rates.