LicenseCompass

Pharmacist License in Colorado

Quick Answer

To become a licensed pharmacist in Colorado, you need a PharmD degree from an accredited program, must pass the NAPLEX and MPJE exams, and obtain a license through the Board of Pharmacy. Colorado has no criminal record prohibitions and offers military exemptions.

Exam
NAPLEX & MPJE
Total Cost
$1,080 (est.)
Timeline
3-6 months after PharmD graduation
Background Check
Required
Renewal
Every Biennial

Requirements

Pharmacist license in Colorado

gold
Education
Degree required
Exam
Third-party exam required
Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
Continuing Education
Continuing education required to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
Military and spouses are exempt from licensure requirements

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee
$100
Exam Fee
$680
Renewal Fee
$100
Total Estimated Cost
$1,080

Licensing Agency

Department of Regulatory Agencies~Division of Professions & Occupations~Board of Pharmacy, Optometric, & Veterinary Medicine

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Pharmacist license in Colorado. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

$
Application FeeEst.$100
Exam FeeEst.$680
Total Estimated Cost$780

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Colorado licensing board.

Pharmacist Salary in Colorado

Entry Level

$108,030

Median

$151,680

Experienced

$181,560

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Pharmacist in Colorado.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    Degree required

  2. 2

    Submit Background Check

    No criminal record prohibitions

  3. 3

    Pass the Required Exam

    Third-party exam required — NAPLEX & MPJE

  4. 4

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$100.

  5. 5

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 3-6 months after PharmD graduation.

Pharmacist Licensing in Colorado: What to Know

Colorado's Board of Pharmacy regulates pharmacists, interns, technicians, and various pharmacy facility types. The state has no criminal record prohibitions for pharmacists, which is more lenient than many states. Colorado exempts military members and spouses from standard licensure requirements. CE is required to maintain licensure. The Division of Professions & Occupations oversees pharmacy alongside optometric and veterinary medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Pharmacist license cost in Colorado?
The estimated total cost is $1,080, including application fees, exam fees ($680), and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Pharmacist license in Colorado?
The process typically takes 3-6 months after PharmD graduation, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Pharmacist license in Colorado?
You need to pass the NAPLEX & MPJE. Third-party exam required

Considering another state?

Compare Pharmacist requirements across states.

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.