LicenseCompass

Pharmacist License in Kentucky

Quick Answer

To become a licensed pharmacist in Kentucky, you need a pharmacy degree, approved internship, and must pass the NAPLEX plus Kentucky's own practical and jurisprudence exams (75% and 80% passing scores). Exam fee is up to $150. One hour of HIV/AIDS CE is required before examination.

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

Requirements

Pharmacist license in Kentucky

gold
Education
Degree required
Exam
State exam required
Background Check
Specific type of conviction prohibited
Continuing Education
Continuing education required to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
N/A - Not displayed

Estimated Costs Est.

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

Licensing Agency

Commonwealth of Kentucky~Board of Pharmacy

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Pharmacist license in Kentucky. 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 Kentucky licensing board.

Pharmacist Salary in Kentucky

Entry Level

$73,650

Median

$132,750

Experienced

$163,620

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 Kentucky.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    Degree required

  2. 2

    Submit Background Check

    Specific type of conviction prohibited

  3. 3

    Pass the Required Exam

    State exam required — NAPLEX, MPJE & Kentucky Practical/Jurisprudence Exam

  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 Kentucky: What to Know

Kentucky has its own state examination in addition to the NAPLEX, with two segments: a jurisprudence component and an operative/practical pharmacy component. Applicants must score at least 75% on the operative/practical portion and 80% on jurisprudence. The examination fee does not exceed $150. If you fail, you only need to retake the segment you failed. Exams are held twice yearly within the state. Applicants must complete 1 hour of HIV/AIDS continuing education from the Kentucky AIDS Education Program before examination. Kentucky also requires approved internship under a certified preceptor.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Pharmacist license cost in Kentucky?
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 Kentucky?
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 Kentucky?
You need to pass the NAPLEX, MPJE & Kentucky Practical/Jurisprudence Exam. State exam required

Considering another state?

Compare Pharmacist requirements across states.

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