Pharmacist / Washington
2026 data Washington board official source

Washington Pharmacist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

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Dispenses medications and counsels patients. Requires PharmD degree.

What the Washington data shows for Pharmacists

To practice as a pharmacist in Washington, the state licensing board requires 5,216 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 Washington's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)".

Budget $303 to get started, plus $262 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 Washington

Education / Training Hours
Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
5,216 hours
Exam Requirement
NAPLEX and MPJE
Required
Initial License Fee
$303
Renewal Fee
$262
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 Washington licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Washington licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Pharmacist in Washington? ▼
Washington's requirements cover 5216 hours of education or training, the NAPLEX and MPJE exam, and an initial fee of $303. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Pharmacist in Washington? ▼
Certification as a pharmacist in Washington means clearing the state's checklist: 5216 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Washington licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Pharmacist license to Washington 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 Washington licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Washington require a background check for Pharmacist licensing? ▼
Yes, Washington 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 Washington? ▼
Washington ties continued pharmacist licensure to 30 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $262 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.