Texas Pharmacy Licensure by Examination

Becoming a licensed pharmacist in Texas through examination is a multi-step process that requires careful planning and attention to detail. This guide provides comprehensive information about the requirements and procedures for obtaining pharmacy licensure in Texas by examination.

Eligibility Requirements

Before applying for licensure by examination in Texas, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria:

• Graduation from a College of Pharmacy accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) with a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree
• Completion of at least 1,500 hours of internship experience, with a minimum of 300 hours completed in Texas under the supervision of a Texas-licensed pharmacist
• United States citizenship or appropriate immigration status
• Good moral character, verified through a criminal background check

Required Examinations

Texas requires candidates to pass several examinations as part of the licensure process:

• North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX): This exam measures general knowledge of pharmacy practice and assesses the candidate's ability to apply this knowledge to ensure safe and effective patient care.
• Texas Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (TJPPE): This examination specifically covers Texas pharmacy laws and regulations.
• Multi-State Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE): While not required for initial licensure in Texas, pharmacists licensed in other states who wish to obtain Texas licensure through reciprocity must pass this exam.

Examination Timeline and Scheduling

Examination	Score Requirement	Valid For
NAPLEX	Minimum score of 75	5 years from exam date
TJPPE	Minimum score of 75	3 years from exam date

The NAPLEX is administered by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) and can be scheduled at any time after receiving approval from the Texas State Board of Pharmacy (TSBP). The TJPPE is administered by the TSBP and is typically offered at their offices in Austin or at various testing centers throughout the state.

Application Process

The application for licensure by examination involves several steps:

1. Submit an Application: Complete the initial application for licensure by examination through the TSBP website and pay the required fee.
2. Submit Transcripts: Arrange for official transcripts from your pharmacy college to be sent directly to the TSBP.
3. Criminal Background Check: Submit fingerprints for a criminal background check through an authorized agency.
4. Submit Internship Documentation: Provide proof of completed internship hours as required.
5. Pay Application Fees: The total fee for licensure by examination is approximately $350, which includes fees for the NAPLEX, TJPPE, and the application processing.

Post-Licensure Requirements

After obtaining licensure, pharmacists in Texas must fulfill ongoing requirements to maintain their license:

• Complete 30 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years, with at least one hour dedicated to pharmacy law
• Submit a renewal application and pay the renewal fee every two years
• Report any disciplinary actions taken by other states or jurisdictions
• Notify the Board of any address or name changes within 30 days of the change

Special Considerations

Certain circumstances require additional attention during the licensure process:

• Criminal History: Applicants with criminal convictions must provide court records and a personal statement regarding their offense. The Board evaluates each case individually.
• Physical or Mental Conditions: Applicants with physical or mental conditions that may affect their ability to practice safely may be required to submit additional medical documentation.
• Licensure in Other States: Pharmacists licensed in other states must provide verification of those licenses when applying for Texas licensure.

Contact Information and Resources

For more information about Texas pharmacy licensure by examination:

• Texas State Board of Pharmacy: 1801 Congress Avenue, Suite 400, Austin, TX 78701
• Phone: (512) 305-8000
• Website: www.tsbp.texas.gov
• Email: Information@tsbp.texas.gov

The Texas State Board of Pharmacy provides detailed application forms, handbooks, and additional resources for prospective pharmacists through their website. Applicants are encouraged to review all materials thoroughly before beginning the application process.

For questions specifically about the NAPLEX examination:

• National Association of Boards of Pharmacy: 1600 Feehanville Drive, Mount Prospect, IL 60056
• Phone: (847) 391-4406
• Website: www.nabp.pharmacy