Pharmacist / Massachusetts
2026 data Massachusetts board official source

Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts data shows for Pharmacists

Massachusetts's path to pharmacist licensure runs through 4,953 hours of approved instruction and a passing score on NAPLEX and MPJE, plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. Massachusetts folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)".

Budget $259 to get started, plus $227 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

For pharmacists, the reciprocity picture is: NAPLEX results recognized nationwide — state law exam differs.

Licensing Requirements in Massachusetts

Education / Training Hours
Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
4,953 hours
Exam Requirement
NAPLEX and MPJE
Required
Initial License Fee
$259
Renewal Fee
$227
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Pharmacist in Massachusetts? ▼
Massachusetts requires 4953 education/training hours, passing an exam (NAPLEX and MPJE), and an initial fee of $259. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Pharmacist in Massachusetts? ▼
Massachusetts licenses pharmacists who complete its requirements (4953 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Massachusetts licensing board.
Can I transfer my Pharmacist license to Massachusetts from another state? ▼
For pharmacists, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: NAPLEX results recognized nationwide — state law exam differs. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the Massachusetts licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Massachusetts require a background check for Pharmacist licensing? ▼
Background screening is part of the pharmacist licensing process in Massachusetts. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Pharmacist in Massachusetts? ▼
Licensed pharmacists in Massachusetts must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $227.

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.