Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Healthcare
Pharmacist Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for pharmacist in Kentucky, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Pharmacist in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Pharmacy
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$132,750 median (3% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#43 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Kentucky
With a median salary of 132,750, Pharmacists in Kentucky earn 3% below the national median of $137,480. Kentucky ranks #43 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,180Median annual salary
$132,750Hourly estimate
$63.823% below national median
Difference: -$4,730
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPharmacist Salary Ranking
#43 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $132,750 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $138,690 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $134,440 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $133,910 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $137,470 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $131,290 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $137,910 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $135,880 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Pharmacy
State Office Building Annex, Suite 300, 125 Holmes Street, Frankfort, KY, 40601
Phone: 5025647910
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $90,950 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $76,180 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $59,900 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Pharmacist in Kentucky?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Pharmacists in Kentucky?
Kentucky lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Pharmacists.
What education do you need to become a Pharmacist in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Degree required for Pharmacist licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Pharmacist salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Pharmacists in Kentucky is 132,750. Salaries range from $73,650 (10th percentile) to $163,620 (90th percentile).
How does the Pharmacist salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Pharmacists in Kentucky earn 3% below the national median of $137,480, with a state median of 132,750.
How many Pharmacists work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 5,310 Pharmacists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Pharmacist license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Commonwealth of Kentucky / Board of Pharmacy. Review agency details at https://pharmacy.ky.gov/.