Pharmacist / New York
2026 data New York board official source

New York 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 New York data shows for Pharmacists

To practice as a pharmacist in New York, the state licensing board requires 4,884 documented education or training hours, a passing score on NAPLEX and MPJE. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under New York's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)".

Budget $247 to get started, plus $218 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 30-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

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

Licensing Requirements in New York

Education / Training Hours
Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
4,884 hours
Exam Requirement
NAPLEX and MPJE
Required
Initial License Fee
$247
Renewal Fee
$218
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 New York licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with New York licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Pharmacist in New York? ▼
New York requires 4884 education/training hours, passing an exam (NAPLEX and MPJE), and an initial fee of $247. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Pharmacist in New York? ▼
New York licenses pharmacists who complete its requirements (4884 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the New York licensing board.
Can I transfer my Pharmacist license to New York 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 New York licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does New York require a background check for Pharmacist licensing? ▼
New York does require a background check before issuing a pharmacist license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Pharmacist in New York? ▼
New York ties continued pharmacist licensure to 30 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $218 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.