Pharmacist License in Iowa
Quick Answer
To become a licensed pharmacist in Iowa, you need a PharmD degree, internship hours, and must pass the NAPLEX and MPJE exams. A criminal background check is required. CE is needed for biennial license renewal.
- Exam
- NAPLEX & MPJE (both state and third-party exams)
- Total Cost
- $1,180 (est.)
- Timeline
- 3-6 months after PharmD graduation
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every Biennial
Requirements
Pharmacist license in Iowa
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $150
- Exam Fee
- $680
- Renewal Fee
- $150
- Total Estimated Cost
- $1,180
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Pharmacist license in Iowa. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Iowa licensing board.
Pharmacist Salary in Iowa
Entry Level
$102,380
Median
$133,220
Experienced
$159,720
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Pharmacist in Iowa.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
Background check required
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Both state and third-party exams required — NAPLEX & MPJE (both state and third-party exams)
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$150.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 3-6 months after PharmD graduation.
Pharmacist Licensing in Iowa: What to Know
Iowa requires pharmacists to graduate from an ACPE-accredited school, complete internship hours, and pass both state and third-party examinations (NAPLEX and MPJE). A background check is required. Iowa Board of Pharmacy Examiners processes applications under the Department of Public Health. CE is required for renewal. The COS description emphasizes pharmacist roles in community pharmacies, including medication counseling and compounding.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Pharmacist license cost in Iowa?
- The estimated total cost is $1,180, including application fees, exam fees ($680), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Pharmacist license in Iowa?
- The process typically takes 3-6 months after PharmD graduation, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Pharmacist license in Iowa?
- You need to pass the NAPLEX & MPJE (both state and third-party exams). Both state and third-party exams required
Considering another state?
Compare Pharmacist requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.