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

Mississippi pharmacists serve a population with high chronic disease burden, creating consistent demand across hospital, retail, and community health settings. The state's relatively low cost of living combined with stable healthcare employment makes it an appealing destination for new graduates and experienced practitioners alike.

Pharmacist Licensing Requirements in Mississippi

A Mississippi pharmacist license requires a PharmD from an ACPE-accredited program, completion of at least 1,500 approved intern hours, a passing NAPLEX score, and a passing MPJE score covering federal and Mississippi law. The Mississippi Board of Pharmacy reviews all applications and conducts background screening before issuing a license.

Step-by-Step: Mississippi Pharmacist License Process

1. Create NABP e-Profile, Register at nabp.pharmacy ($35 fee). This profile is the hub for all NAPLEX, MPJE, and NABP services, including license verification.
2. Apply for NAPLEX Authorization, Submit your NAPLEX application and pay $695. Your school transmits transcripts directly to NABP. Expect your ATT letter within 2-4 weeks of complete documentation.
3. Apply for MPJE Authorization, Submit MPJE application and pay ~$150. The MS Board confirms eligibility to NABP before an ATT is issued.
4. Apply to the MS Board of Pharmacy, Complete the Board's online application, provide official transcripts and intern hour logs, and pay the ~$100 licensure fee. The Board office in Ridgeland processes applications and responds within 3-4 weeks.
5. Complete the Background Check, Fingerprints submitted to the Board-designated vendor cost approximately $50-75. The Board evaluates prior convictions on a case-by-case basis.
6. Pass the NAPLEX, A minimum scaled score of 75 is required. Candidates who fail may retake after a 45-day waiting period; five lifetime attempts are permitted.
7. Pass the MPJE, A minimum scaled score of 75 is required. The exam covers federal pharmacy law (approximately 57%) and Mississippi-specific pharmacy statutes and regulations (approximately 43%).
8. Receive License and Register with DEA, After the Board issues your Mississippi pharmacist license, register with the DEA ($888 per 3-year cycle) if your practice involves controlled substances.

Fees and Timeline

Total processing time is typically 8-10 weeks when all documents are submitted promptly after graduation.

NAPLEX Score Transfer

Mississippi accepts NABP Score Transfer for candidates who passed the NAPLEX in another state within the prior 90 days. The transfer fee is $50 and eliminates the need to retake the exam. You must still pass the Mississippi MPJE regardless of prior exam history, as it tests Mississippi-specific law.

DEA Registration

Pharmacists who dispense controlled substances must register with the DEA. Apply at deadiversion.usdoj.gov after receiving your state license number. The registration fee is $888 for a 3-year cycle. Mississippi pharmacists should also be familiar with the state's Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP), which requires mandatory registration for practitioners who prescribe or dispense controlled substances.

Continuing Education

Mississippi pharmacists must complete 15 hours of ACPE-accredited CPE annually for license renewal, totaling 30 hours over the two-year renewal cycle. At least 1 hour per renewal period must cover medication errors and patient safety. The Board audits CE compliance and may request certificates of completion at renewal.

Top Mississippi Employers Hiring Pharmacists

• UMMC (University of Mississippi Medical Center), Jackson-based academic medical center with strong clinical pharmacy programs across oncology, transplant, and critical care.
• Baptist Medical Center, Major health system serving central Mississippi with multiple hospital and clinic locations requiring staff and clinical pharmacists.
• Merit Health, Multi-facility health system operating hospitals throughout Mississippi including Merit Health Central and Merit Health River Oaks.
• Community Pharmacy Networks, Independent pharmacies and regional chains throughout the state, particularly in underserved rural communities, offer stable employment and community impact.
• Retail Chains, CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart pharmacy locations are distributed across all major Mississippi metros and many smaller communities.

Pharmacist Salary in Mississippi (2026)

• Staff Pharmacist (retail/hospital): $110,000-$120,000/year
• Clinical Pharmacist (hospital/health system): $118,000-$128,000/year
• Pharmacy Manager: $125,000-$132,000/year
• Specialty Pharmacist: $120,000-$132,000/year

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