Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Healthcare
Pharmacist Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for pharmacist in North Carolina, 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 North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Board of Pharmacy
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$136,000 median (1% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#27 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 North Carolina
With a median salary of 136,000, Pharmacists in North Carolina earn 1% below the national median of $137,480. North Carolina ranks #27 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,298Median annual salary
$136,000Hourly estimate
$65.381% below national median
Difference: -$1,480
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPharmacist Salary Ranking
#27 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $136,000 | Specific course required | State 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 |
| Georgia | $132,400 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $135,900 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 60 | 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. |
| Georgia | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
NC Board of Pharmacy
6015 Farrington Rd, Ste. 201, Chapel Hill, NC, 27517
Phone: 9192461050ext208
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $79,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $80,350 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $59,390 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,710 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Pharmacist in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina?
North Carolina lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Pharmacists.
What education do you need to become a Pharmacist in North Carolina?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Pharmacist licensure in North Carolina.
What is the typical Pharmacist salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Pharmacists in North Carolina is 136,000. Salaries range from $93,330 (10th percentile) to $165,980 (90th percentile).
How does the Pharmacist salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Pharmacists in North Carolina earn 1% below the national median of $137,480, with a state median of 136,000.
How many Pharmacists work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 11,440 Pharmacists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Pharmacist license to North Carolina from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Pharmacists in North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Board of Pharmacy. Review agency details at https://www.ncbop.org/.