Pharmacist / Rhode Island
2026 data Rhode Island board official source

Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island data shows for Pharmacists

To practice as a pharmacist in Rhode Island, the state licensing board requires 5,115 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 Rhode Island's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)".

Upfront cost is $286, with renewal running $249 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 Rhode Island

Education / Training Hours
Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
5,115 hours
Exam Requirement
NAPLEX and MPJE
Required
Initial License Fee
$286
Renewal Fee
$249
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 Rhode Island licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Rhode Island licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Pharmacist in Rhode Island? ▼
In Rhode Island, the license path calls for 5115 education/training hours, a passing score on NAPLEX and MPJE, and a $286 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Pharmacist in Rhode Island? ▼
Certification as a pharmacist in Rhode Island means clearing the state's checklist: 5115 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Rhode Island licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Pharmacist license to Rhode Island from another state? ▼
Reciprocity for pharmacists nationally works like this: NAPLEX results recognized nationwide — state law exam differs. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Rhode Island. Verify the specifics with the Rhode Island licensing board.
Does Rhode Island require a background check for Pharmacist licensing? ▼
Yes, Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island? ▼
Rhode Island ties continued pharmacist licensure to 30 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $249 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.