Pharmacist / Pennsylvania
2026 data Pennsylvania board official source

Pennsylvania Pharmacist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

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Dispenses medications and counsels patients. Requires PharmD degree.

What the Pennsylvania data shows for Pharmacists

Pennsylvania's path to pharmacist licensure runs through 4,851 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. Pennsylvania folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)".

Upfront cost is $242, with renewal running $214 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 Pennsylvania

Education / Training Hours
Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
4,851 hours
Exam Requirement
NAPLEX and MPJE
Required
Initial License Fee
$242
Renewal Fee
$214
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 Pennsylvania licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Pennsylvania licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Pharmacist in Pennsylvania? ▼
In Pennsylvania, the license path calls for 4851 education/training hours, a passing score on NAPLEX and MPJE, and a $242 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Pharmacist in Pennsylvania? ▼
Certification as a pharmacist in Pennsylvania means clearing the state's checklist: 4851 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Pennsylvania licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Pharmacist license to Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Pennsylvania require a background check for Pharmacist licensing? ▼
Yes, Pennsylvania requires a criminal background check as part of the pharmacist licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Pharmacist in Pennsylvania? ▼
To stay licensed as a pharmacist in Pennsylvania, plan on 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $214.

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.