The NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) is developed by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) for use by the state boards of pharmacy as part of their assessment of competence to practice pharmacy. It is a computer-adaptive test that provides the most precise measurement of your knowledge and ability in pharmacy. By using the NAPLEX, the state boards provide a valid and objective examination that tests competence in important aspects of the practice of pharmacy. The NAPLEX also assists the state boards of pharmacy in fulfilling one aspect of their responsibility to safeguard the public health and welfare.

The North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination® (NAPLEX®) is designed to evaluate general practice knowledge and is taken by recent college of pharmacy graduates shortly after they receive their degree. The exam is also taken by foreign-educated pharmacists who have earned FPGEC Certification. The NAPLEX is just one component of the licensure process and is used by the boards of pharmacy to assess a candidate’s competence to practice as a pharmacist.

You must complete the process outlined below when applying for the NAPLEX. A thorough breakdown of the application steps, including answers to common questions, can also be found in the Bulletin.

Click to review the application steps.

1. Read the Candidate Application Bulletin and learn state licensure requirements

   • Fully understand the process and expectations for examination candidates and check your board of pharmacy’s website to see if there are unique requirements in the state where you are seeking licensure.

   • Sign up to receive more information on how to apply and prepare for the NAPLEX.

2. If applicable, request an armed forces discount

   • Apply for the armed forces discount in your NABP e-Profile first, before applying for exam eligibility. The option is available in the right drop-down menu.

3. Apply for exam eligibility

   • Apply in the Exam Services section of your NABP e-Profile and pay the application fee.

   • See the information below regarding eligibility. Timelines and fees may vary depending on the state.

   • If applicable, request ADA accommodations.

     • If you need test day accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), complete and follow the submission instructions on the Request for Testing Accommodations form. The form should be submitted with your online application.

4. Submit transcript upon degree conferral

   • Transcripts are required if you graduated in 2020 or later. You must have an official transcript sent from your college of pharmacy to NABP in order to purchase the exam and receive an Authorization to Test (ATT). Learn more about how to submit your transcripts.

5. Purchase your exam

   • Once eligibility is granted, the purchase exam link will appear in your e-Profile. You may also purchase score transfers at this time, or you may wait until after you have taken the exam. You may purchase score transfers up to 89 days after your exam date. Candidates are advised to purchase score transfer requests as soon as possible. Waiting until the last day may result in the score transfer request option being unavailable.

6. Schedule the exam with Pearson VUE

   • After purchasing the exam, you will receive an ATT via email and you can then schedule your appointment with Pearson VUE.