How to Become a Pharmacist in New York
In New York, a Pharmacist license typically requires a state exam, a 75% passing score, and a $620 exam fee.
Dispenses prescriptions and advises on medication. Requires a PharmD and the NAPLEX plus a state pharmacy law exam (MPJE). Requirements change — always confirm with New York State Board of Pharmacy (NYSED, Office of the Professions) before paying.
Licensing steps in New York
- 1Meet the basic requirements
Age and background check rules vary — confirm with the state board.
- 2Complete pre-license education
Required training hours are not published here — check with the state board for the current figure.
- 3Register and pass the exam
The exam is administered by NABP (NAPLEX/MPJE) — Pearson VUE with a 360-minute time limit; you need 75% to pass.
- 4Pay fees and get licensed
Exam fee $620 · application $339 · license $339
- 5Stay current
License renews every 3 years with 45 hours of continuing education.
Pharmacist requirements — New York at a glance
| Education hours | — |
| Exam vendor | NABP (NAPLEX/MPJE) — Pearson VUE |
| Questions (national/state) | — / — |
| Passing score | 75% |
| Exam fee | $620 |
| Application fee | $339 |
| License fee | $339 |
| First-attempt pass rate | not published |
| Retake rule | — |
| Renewal | every 3 years · 45 CE |
| Reciprocity | NABP eLTP transfer available; NY MPJE required |
Official source: New York State Board of Pharmacy (NYSED, Office of the Professions) ↗
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get a Pharmacist license in New York?
After completing the required education, most candidates need 4-12 weeks of study before the exam. Total timeline depends on scheduling.
How hard is the Pharmacist exam in New York?
Official first-attempt pass rates are not published by New York; check the state board.
What does the Pharmacist license cost in New York?
The exam fee is $620, the application fee is $339, and the license fee is $339
Can I transfer my Pharmacist license to New York?
Reciprocity: NABP eLTP transfer available; NY MPJE required.
Plan your Pharmacist licensing in New York
This guide is informational and not legal advice. Requirements change frequently — verify all figures with New York State Board of Pharmacy (NYSED, Office of the Professions) (retrieved 2026-08-20).