License by Exam or Score Transfer
This is an option for applicants that are not licensed as a pharmacist in another state and who are seeking licensure by completing both the NAPLEX and MPJE exams or by Score Transfer* of their NAPLEX score and MPJE score.
License Transfer (also called "Reciprocity")
This is an option for non-resident pharmacists with an active license in another state who are seeking to transfer (reciprocate) their license to Minnesota.
The Minnesota Board of Pharmacy is requiring new applicants to complete the fingerprint portion of the criminal background check as prior to being licensed.
Minnesota law and Board policy requires that all first-time applicants for pharmacist licensure in the state of Minnesota complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check. See Minnesota Statute § 214.075.
Processing time for a criminal background check is two to three weeks. Additional time may be required if further investigations have to be conducted. It is recommended that graduates submit their application one month prior to graduation to allow time for processing.
Minnesota Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP)
In 2017, Minnesota legislators implemented a program to promote public health and welfare by detecting diversion, along with abuse and misuse of prescriptions for controlled substances as defined in Minnesota Statutes Section 152.126. This law requires all Minnesota pharmacists practicing within the state are to register and maintain a user account with the PMP. Visit pmp.pharmacy.state.mn.us for more information on how to comply with this law once you are licensed as a pharmacist.
