Pharmacist License in Minnesota 2026: NAPLEX, MPJE, Board Requirements

Minnesota is home to a robust healthcare economy anchored by world-renowned institutions, making it one of the most desirable states for pharmacists seeking clinical depth and competitive compensation. Whether you are a new graduate or relocating from another state, understanding the MN Board of Pharmacy requirements will help you move quickly from graduation to practice.

Pharmacist Licensing Requirements in Minnesota

To obtain a Minnesota pharmacist license you must hold a PharmD from an ACPE-accredited program, complete at least 1,500 hours of approved intern experience, pass the NAPLEX, and pass the MPJE with Minnesota law content. The MN Board of Pharmacy administers licensure and requires a clean background check before issuing a license number.

Step-by-Step: Minnesota Pharmacist License Process

1. Create NABP e-Profile — Visit nabp.pharmacy and register for an e-Profile ($35 fee). Your e-Profile ID links your exam registrations, transcript requests, and state applications together.
2. Apply for NAPLEX Authorization — Submit your NAPLEX application through NABP and pay $695. Your school will send transcripts directly to NABP. The Authorization to Test (ATT) letter typically arrives within 2-4 weeks.
3. Apply for MPJE Authorization — Submit your MPJE application and pay ~$150. The MN Board must approve your eligibility before NABP issues an ATT for the MPJE.
4. Apply to the MN Board of Pharmacy — Complete the licensure application at mn.gov/boards/pharmacy. Upload intern hour documentation, request official transcripts sent directly to the Board, and pay the ~$165 application fee.
5. Complete the Background Check — Submit fingerprints through the Board-designated vendor. Fees typically run $50-75. Disclose any prior criminal history as required; the Board evaluates each case individually.
6. Pass the NAPLEX — The NAPLEX is a 250-item computer-adaptive exam covering pharmacotherapy, calculations, and patient safety. A scaled score of 75 passes. Schedule your appointment through Pearson VUE within your ATT validity window.
7. Pass the MPJE — The MPJE is a 120-item adaptive exam covering federal pharmacy law (approximately 57%) and Minnesota-specific statutes and rules (approximately 43%). A scaled score of 75 passes.
8. Receive License and Register with DEA — After the MN Board processes all documents and you pass both exams, your license is issued. Register with the DEA at deadiversion.usdoj.gov ($888 for a 3-year cycle) to prescribe or dispense controlled substances.

Fees and Timeline

Item	Fee
NABP e-Profile	$35
NAPLEX	$695
MPJE	~$150
MN Board Application	~$165
Background Check	~$50-75
Total Estimated	~$1,095-1,120

Most candidates complete the full process in 8-12 weeks from graduation, assuming transcripts are submitted promptly and exam slots are available within 2-3 weeks of ATT issuance.

NAPLEX Score Transfer

Minnesota participates in NABP's Score Transfer program. If you passed the NAPLEX in another state within the last 90 days you may transfer your score to Minnesota for a $50 transfer fee, avoiding a retake. However, you must still pass the Minnesota-specific MPJE regardless of exam history in another state.

DEA Registration

A DEA registration is required to dispense, prescribe, or administer Schedule II through V controlled substances. Apply online at deadiversion.usdoj.gov after receiving your state license number. The registration costs $888 for a 3-year cycle and must be renewed before expiration. Hospital-based pharmacists should confirm whether their employer holds an institutional DEA registration that covers their practice.

Continuing Education

Minnesota pharmacists must complete 30 hours of continuing pharmacy education (CPE) every two years for license renewal. At least 1 hour must cover patient safety topics and at least 2 hours must cover controlled substance prescribing or the opioid epidemic. All CPE must be ACPE-accredited. The renewal cycle runs on a two-year basis tied to your license expiration date.

Top Minnesota Employers Hiring Pharmacists

• Mayo Clinic — Rochester-based global academic medical center; clinical pharmacists work alongside world-class specialist teams in oncology, transplant, and rare disease.
• M Health Fairview — Large integrated health system across the Twin Cities with hospitals, clinics, and specialty pharmacy operations.
• Allina Health — 12-hospital system spanning Minnesota and western Wisconsin; strong residency programs and ambulatory care expansion.
• Sanford Health — Major regional health system with facilities across greater Minnesota and the Dakotas; growing clinical pharmacy roles in rural settings.
• Retail and PBM — CVS, Walgreens, and Optum Rx operate extensively throughout the Twin Cities metro and greater Minnesota communities.

Pharmacist Salary in Minnesota (2026)

• Staff Pharmacist (retail/hospital): $122,000-$135,000/year
• Clinical Pharmacist (hospital/health system): $130,000-$145,000/year
• Pharmacy Manager: $140,000-$150,000/year
• Specialty/Oncology Pharmacist: $135,000-$150,000/year

Related: Pharmacist Salary Guide 2026, Hospital vs Retail Pharmacist, Clinical Pharmacist Salary Guide, Florida Pharmacist License Guide.