MPJE
Overview
The MPJE exam (Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination) is a 2.5-hour, 120-question computer-adaptive assessment designed to evaluate a candidate’s knowledge of both federal and state-specific pharmacy laws. The test content is divided into four main areas: 30% focuses on medication dispensing requirements, 30% covers pharmacy practice standards, 20% addresses licensure and pharmacy personnel regulations, and the remaining 20% relates to pharmacy operations.
To pass, candidates must achieve a minimum scaled score of 75. Results are typically available within seven days. Candidates are permitted up to five attempts per state or jurisdiction.
MPJE Exam
Key Aspects of MPJE Exam
The Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) is an important, state-focused licensing exam created by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP). It is designed to assess a candidate’s understanding of both federal pharmacy laws and the specific laws and regulations of the state in which they plan to practice.
Because it plays a critical role in pharmacist licensure, the exam ensures that candidates have the legal knowledge required to practice safely and in compliance with applicable rules and professional standards. Currently, 45 states utilize the MPJE as part of their pharmacist licensing requirements.
1. Exam Structure and Format
- Length and Number of Questions:
The exam lasts 2.5 hours and includes 120 multiple-choice questions delivered on a computer.
- Scoring Method:
Out of the 120 questions, only 100 are counted toward the final score. The remaining 20 are pretest questions used for evaluation purposes and do not affect the score. However, test-takers cannot distinguish which questions are scored and which are not. - Computer-Adaptive Design:
The test uses adaptive technology, meaning the difficulty level of questions changes based on how well a candidate answers previous ones. Once an answer is submitted, it cannot be reviewed or changed. - Break Policy:
There are no official breaks during the exam. If a candidate chooses to take a break, the exam clock continues running, and that time is deducted from the total 2.5-hour limit.
2. Key Content Areas (Blueprint)
The MPJE is organized around four primary competency domains, with a strong focus on how pharmacy law is applied in real-world practice settings.
- Area 1: Licensure, Registration, Certification, and Operational Requirements (~22%)
This section addresses the legal requirements for pharmacist and pharmacy licensure. It includes topics such as the duties and legal accountability of the pharmacist-in-charge, the scope of practice and supervision of pharmacy technicians, and regulatory standards for obtaining and maintaining pharmacy permits. - Area 2: Pharmacy Practice (~33%)
This is the largest content area and centers on the legal aspects of dispensing medications. It covers prescription validity requirements, proper processing procedures, patient counseling obligations, and ensuring compliance with applicable laws during routine pharmacy practice. - Area 3: Dispensing Requirements (~24%)
This domain focuses on the technical and legal standards for preparing and distributing medications. Topics include labeling specifications, packaging requirements, and regulations governing the handling and documentation of controlled substances. - Area 4: Pharmacy Operations (~21%)
This section examines the legal framework surrounding daily pharmacy operations. It includes recordkeeping standards, proper drug storage conditions, inventory management, and, in certain cases, regulations related to sterile and non-sterile hazardous compounding.
3. State-Specific Requirements and the “Stricter Law” Principle
- State-Tailored Exams:
Each state has its own version of the MPJE that reflects its individual pharmacy laws and regulations. Candidates must take and pass the specific exam designed for the state where they intend to become licensed, as requirements can vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another. - Federal vs. State Law Application:
When there is a conflict between federal and state pharmacy laws, the rule that provides greater restriction or stricter standards must be followed. In practice, this means applying whichever law imposes tighter controls or higher compliance requirements. - High-Yield Topics:
Particular emphasis is placed on controlled substance regulations, including prescribing limits and documentation rules. Candidates should also thoroughly understand prescription requirements—such as refill limitations and day-supply restrictions—as well as the permitted duties and supervision requirements for pharmacy technicians and interns.
4. Passing Standards and Retake Policy
- Required Passing Score:
To successfully pass the exam, candidates must earn a minimum scaled score of 75. - Minimum Questions Answered:
Test-takers are required to respond to at least 107 out of the 120 total questions. If fewer than 107 questions are completed, the exam may not be scored, and a result may not be issued. - Retake Waiting Period:
If a candidate does not pass, they must wait at least 30 days before attempting the exam again. - Attempt Limit:
Candidates are allowed up to five total attempts per state or jurisdiction. Once the maximum number of attempts is reached, additional approval or eligibility requirements may apply depending on the board of pharmacy.
5. Upcoming Changes (2026)
- Uniform MPJE (UMPJE):
Beginning in 2026, the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) plans to introduce a new version of the MPJE called the Uniform MPJE (UMPJE). Unlike the current format, which is customized to reflect the detailed and unique pharmacy laws of each individual state, the UMPJE will focus on broadly applicable legal principles that are common across multiple jurisdictions.
This change is intended to emphasize shared standards and foundational state law concepts rather than testing highly specific, state-exclusive regulations.
6. Top Tips for Success
- Read Questions Thoroughly:
Pay close attention to wording, especially qualifiers such as “all of the following EXCEPT” or “which of the following do NOT apply.” These phrases completely change what the question is asking and are commonly used to test careful reading rather than just knowledge. - Allow Adequate Study Time:
Plan to spend approximately 2 to 4 weeks preparing for the exam. Consistent daily review is more effective than last-minute cramming, particularly for mastering detailed legal concepts. - Master Key Numbers and Limits:
Be sure to memorize specific numerical details frequently tested on the exam. This includes time limits, refill restrictions, quantity caps, age requirements, daily pseudoephedrine (PSE) limits, and prescription expiration timeframes. Small numerical differences can determine the correct answer. - Consult Official Board Resources:
Review the FAQ section and guidance documents available on your state’s Board of Pharmacy website. These resources often clarify commonly misunderstood rules and highlight state-specific regulations that are likely to appear on the exam.
- Time Limit: 2.5 hours (plus 20 minutes for a tutorial and post-exam survey).
- Question Types: Selected-response (multiple-choice) questions that may require selecting all that apply or a single best answer.
- Adaptive Technology: The exam adjusts the difficulty of questions based on your previous answers.
- No Turning Back: Once an answer is submitted, you cannot go back to change it.
- Content Areas: The exam covers Pharmacy Practice (approx. 33%), Licensing/Personnel (20-30%), and Dispensing/Operations (20-30%).
- Attempts: Candidates are allowed 5 attempts per jurisdiction to pass.
- Total Appointment Time: Approximately 3 hours (including administration time).
MPJE Exam Eligibility
To qualify for the MPJE, applicants must meet specific educational or licensure requirements. Eligible candidates include graduates of a pharmacy program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), foreign pharmacy graduates who have obtained certification through the Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Examination Committee (FPGEC), and currently licensed pharmacists who are seeking licensure in an additional state or jurisdiction.
Before registering for the exam, candidates must first apply for eligibility through the board of pharmacy in the state where they intend to become licensed. After receiving authorization, they must purchase the exam through their National Association of Boards of Pharmacy e-Profile account to complete the registration process.
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