Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Healthcare
Pharmacist Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for pharmacist in Washington, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Pharmacist in Washington
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
Individuals must submit application, Must provide a complete list of professional education and experience including college or university and a list of practice history from graduation, take the North American Pharmacy Licensure examination and the multistate Jurisprudence examination, be a graduate of a Council for Pharmacy Education-accredited school or college of pharmacy, have certification of 1,500 internship hours.Individual must provide information on physical and mental health, lack of impairment due to chemical dependency, any felony convictions or loss or limitations of privileges, any disciplinary actions and a professional liability claims history.
- 6
Individuals must submit application and pay required fee.
Exam and processing details
- Jurisprudence examination, be a graduate of a Council for Pharmacy Education-accredited school or college of pharmacy, have certification of 1,500 internship hours
Continuing education and program notes
- certification of 1,500 internship hours
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$157,020 median (14% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#4 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Washington 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: Third-party exam required Jurisprudence examination, be a graduate of a Council for Pharmacy Education-accredited school or college of pharmacy, have certification of 1,500 internship hours.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Background check required; Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.; Individuals must submit application, Must provide a complete list of professional education and experience including college or universit...).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Health and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $157,020, Pharmacists in Washington earn 14% above the national median of $137,480. Washington ranks #4 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$157,020Hourly estimate
$75.4914% above national median
Difference: +$19,540
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPharmacist Salary Ranking
#4 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 regionLicense 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 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
Department of Health
101 Israel Rd SE, Tumwater, WA, 98501
Phone: 3602364700
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $73,420 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $60,350 | Degree required | Varies by board |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Pharmacist in Washington?
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 Washington?
Washington lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Pharmacists.
What education do you need to become a Pharmacist in Washington?
The board typically expects Degree required for Pharmacist licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Pharmacist salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Pharmacists in Washington is $157,020. Salaries range from $118,830 (10th percentile) to $192,620 (90th percentile).
How does the Pharmacist salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Pharmacists in Washington earn 14% above the national median of $137,480, with a state median of $157,020.
How many Pharmacists work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 7,940 Pharmacists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Pharmacist license to Washington 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 Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Health. Review agency details at http://www.doh.wa.gov/.
How often do you renew a Pharmacist license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.