Pharmacist / Illinois
2026 data Illinois board official source

Illinois Pharmacist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

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Dispenses medications and counsels patients. Requires PharmD degree.

What the Illinois data shows for Pharmacists

Illinois sets the entry bar for pharmacists at 5,378 training hours and a passing score on NAPLEX and MPJE. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under Illinois's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)".

Budget $330 to get started, plus $284 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 30 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

On reciprocity, pharmacists should know: NAPLEX results recognized nationwide — state law exam differs.

Licensing Requirements in Illinois

Education / Training Hours
Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
5,378 hours
Exam Requirement
NAPLEX and MPJE
Required
Initial License Fee
$330
Renewal Fee
$284
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

Compare & Explore

Compare all states for Pharmacist All Illinois licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Illinois licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Pharmacist in Illinois? ▼
Illinois requires 5378 education/training hours, passing an exam (NAPLEX and MPJE), and an initial fee of $330. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Pharmacist in Illinois? ▼
Illinois licenses pharmacists who complete its requirements (5378 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Illinois licensing board.
Can I transfer my Pharmacist license to Illinois from another state? ▼
Pharmacist licenses generally reciprocate as follows: NAPLEX results recognized nationwide — state law exam differs. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Illinois licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Illinois require a background check for Pharmacist licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for pharmacist licensing in Illinois. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Pharmacist in Illinois? ▼
Illinois ties continued pharmacist licensure to 30 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $284 renewal fee.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.