Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Healthcare
Pharmacist Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for pharmacist in Iowa, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Pharmacist in Iowa
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.
- 4
Certification: Certification required.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Both state and third-party exams required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Iowa Department of Public Health • Iowa Board of Pharmacy Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$133,220 median (3% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#42 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Iowa eligibility requirements for Pharmacist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Both state and third-party exams required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Background check required; Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.).
- 6. Submit the application to Iowa Department of Public Health~Iowa Board of Pharmacy Examiners and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Iowa
With a median salary of $133,220, Pharmacists in Iowa earn 3% below the national median of $137,480. Iowa ranks #42 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,154Median annual salary
$133,220Hourly estimate
$64.053% below national median
Difference: -$4,260
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPharmacist Salary Ranking
#42 of 50 statesfor Pharmacist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $165,150 |
| #2 | Alaska | $163,200 |
| #3 | Oregon | $163,120 |
| #4 | Washington | $157,020 |
| #5 | Minnesota | $154,610 |
Nearby States Comparison
Pharmacist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $133,220 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $154,610 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $140,410 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $135,880 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $137,910 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 21 years |
| Nebraska | $133,340 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6 months |
| South Dakota | $140,190 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Iowa Department of Public Health • Iowa Board of Pharmacy Examiners
Iowa Board of Pharmacy, 400 S.W. 8th Street, Suite E, Des Moines, IA, 50309-4688
Phone: 5152423272
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $385,010 | Degree required | Varies by board |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Pharmacist in Iowa?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Pharmacists in Iowa?
Iowa lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Pharmacists.
What education do you need to become a Pharmacist in Iowa?
The board typically expects Degree required for Pharmacist licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Pharmacist salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Pharmacists in Iowa is $133,220. Salaries range from $102,380 (10th percentile) to $159,720 (90th percentile).
How does the Pharmacist salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Pharmacists in Iowa earn 3% below the national median of $137,480, with a state median of $133,220.
How many Pharmacists work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 2,920 Pharmacists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Pharmacist license to Iowa from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Pharmacists in Iowa?
The licensing agency is Iowa Department of Public Health / Iowa Board of Pharmacy Examiners. Review agency details at https://pharmacy.iowa.gov/licensureregistration/pharmacists.
How often do you renew a Pharmacist license in Iowa?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.