How many years of inactivity can lead the Board of Pharmacy to require a pharmacist to retake the NAPLEX?

The requirement for a pharmacist to retake the NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) after a period of inactivity is set by many state boards, including Minnesota's Board of Pharmacy. In Minnesota, a pharmacist must retake the NAPLEX if they have not actively practiced pharmacy for a consecutive period of 2 years. This policy ensures that pharmacists maintain current knowledge and skills in a rapidly changing field, which is crucial for patient safety and effective medication management.

As a result, if a pharmacist has not been engaged in practicing for 2 years, the Board of Pharmacy will require them to demonstrate their competency again by passing the NAPLEX before they can regain their license to practice. This reinforces the importance of continuous practice in maintaining professional credentials and ensuring a high standard of care in pharmacy services.