Can You Get a Pharmacy Technician License with a Criminal Record? (2026)

If you have a criminal record and are considering a career as a pharmacy technician, you may be wondering how your past could affect your ability to obtain a license or registration. Pharmacy technicians work directly with medications, including controlled substances, and state boards of pharmacy take this responsibility seriously. Background checks are a common part of the licensing process, and boards may closely scrutinize drug-related offenses and theft. However, a criminal record does not automatically prevent you from becoming a licensed pharmacy technician.

How Pharmacy Boards Evaluate Criminal Records

State boards of pharmacy that review criminal histories typically consider several factors when evaluating an applicant. Because pharmacy technicians handle controlled substances and other medications, boards may pay particular attention to drug-related offenses, theft, and diversion. Each application is generally reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Factors that boards commonly consider include:

• Nature and severity of the offense — Whether the conviction is a felony or misdemeanor, and whether it involves drug-related crimes, theft, or diversion of controlled substances.
• Time elapsed since the offense — Many boards look more favorably on offenses that occurred further in the past.
• Evidence of rehabilitation — Completion of probation, substance abuse treatment, education, or other steps that demonstrate personal growth and recovery.
• Number of offenses — A single, isolated incident may be viewed differently than a pattern of criminal behavior.
• Relationship to the profession — Drug-related offenses and theft may receive closer scrutiny given the access pharmacy technicians have to controlled substances.
• Completion of sentence — Whether all terms of the sentence, including probation, treatment programs, and fines, have been satisfied.

State-by-State Background Check Requirements

The following table shows which states require background checks and/or fingerprinting as part of the pharmacy technician licensing process, along with associated fees where available.

Steps to Improve Your Chances

If you have a criminal record and are pursuing a pharmacy technician license, consider taking these steps to strengthen your application:

1. Consult an attorney. A lawyer experienced in occupational licensing can review your specific situation and advise you on the best course of action.
2. Contact the board of pharmacy. Many state boards offer pre-application reviews or informal guidance on whether your record may affect your eligibility.
3. Gather documentation of rehabilitation. Collect letters of recommendation, certificates of completion for treatment or education programs, and records showing you have fulfilled all terms of your sentence.
4. Be honest and transparent. Failing to disclose a criminal record when asked can result in automatic denial. Full disclosure with context is generally better received.
5. Look into expungement or record sealing. Depending on your state and the nature of the offense, you may be able to have your record expunged or sealed, which could simplify the licensing process.
6. Build professional references. Strong references from employers, supervisors, educators, or community leaders can help demonstrate your character and readiness to work responsibly with medications.

Additional Resources

For more information about the pharmacy technician licensing process, visit our guide to becoming a pharmacy technician. You can also browse pharmacy technician licensing requirements by state for detailed state-specific information.