First-time renewal: Your initial registration is good only until the first birthday that follows licensure. When you renew that first time you do not owe any CE; simply file the online form and pay the fee.

Certification expectations: Massachusetts does not force you to maintain an active national PTCB or ExCPT credential for routine renewal. You only needed to hold certification - or pass a Board-approved exam or program - when you first applied. Maintaining the credential is optional unless your employer or an advanced duty (e.g., vaccinations) requires it.

Immunization authority (Policy 2023-02): A pharmacy technician may give vaccines only when all of the following are true:

• Licensing & experience – You’re a licensed MA pharmacy technician and either nationally certified (PTCB/ExCPT) or have ≥ 500 hours of technician experience.

• Core training – Complete a Board-approved, ACPE-accredited 6-hour immunization course that includes at least 2 hours of live, hands-on injection practice.

• On-the-job training – Log 2 additional hours with a certified immunizer and finish a skills checklist.

• Ongoing CE – Finish 2 hours of immunization-focused CE every two years (inside your otherwise zero-hour requirement).

• CPR/BLS – Hold an in-person, current CPR card.

• Supervision – Work under the direct, on-site supervision of an immunization-qualified pharmacist and follow the pharmacy’s standing orders.

• Age limits – You may vaccinate patients 5 years and older.