7 Critical Updates From The NC Board Of Pharmacy: What Pharmacists And Technicians MUST Know For 2025-2026

The North Carolina Board of Pharmacy (NCBOP) is the regulatory body overseeing the practice of pharmacy in the state, and staying current with its rules is not just a best practice—it is a legal mandate for all licensees and permit holders. As of the current date, December 17, 2025, the Board has issued several major updates and proposed rule changes that will significantly impact pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and dispensing facilities across North Carolina in 2025 and 2026.

From major shifts in licensure exams to new compliance standards for controlled substances, these changes are designed to enhance patient safety and modernize the profession. Ignoring these critical updates could lead to serious disciplinary action, including fines or license suspension. This comprehensive guide breaks down the seven most important rules, laws, and compliance actions you need to know right now.

The Essential 2025-2026 NC Board of Pharmacy Updates and Rule Changes

The regulatory landscape for pharmacy practice in North Carolina is continuously evolving. The NCBOP, in conjunction with state and federal partners, is implementing new standards that affect everything from initial licensure to daily dispensing operations. These are the most pressing updates for practitioners.

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1. The Major MPJE Licensure Requirement Change (Effective April 2026)

One of the most significant changes on the horizon is the shift in the jurisprudence examination requirement. Effective April 1, 2026, the North Carolina Board of Pharmacy will require all pharmacist licensure candidates to pass the uniform version of the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE).

• What It Means: This transition standardizes the law portion of the exam, aligning North Carolina with a majority of other states and facilitating the process of Licensure By Reciprocity.
• Action Item: Candidates planning to take the exam before the April 2026 deadline should confirm the specific version of the exam they are required to take with the Board’s licensing division.

2. New Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS) Compliance Actions

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Compliance with controlled substance reporting is under increased scrutiny. Starting on September 3, 2025, the NC DHHS Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS) began actively contacting pharmacies and dispensers.

• The Focus: The contact is specifically directed at facilities with outstanding dispensation errors from the previous quarter. This is a clear signal of stricter enforcement of the state’s controlled substance laws.
• Entity Spotlight: The NC DHHS CSRS is a vital entity for tracking and preventing drug misuse, and compliance with their reporting mandates is non-negotiable under the Pharmacy Practice Act.

3. Proposed Expansion of Pharmacy Technician Responsibilities

The NCBOP is currently proposing amendments to rules that would expand the discretion of health care facilities in how they employ and utilize pharmacy technicians.

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• Key Proposal: The proposed rule aims to increase the number of technicians who can serve as validating technicians, a change that would significantly impact workflow and efficiency in institutional settings.
• Impact on Staffing: This move recognizes the growing role of certified technicians and seeks to optimize pharmacist time by delegating more technical, non-clinical tasks.

Licensing, Renewal, and Disciplinary Processes Explained

Beyond the major rule changes, daily compliance hinges on understanding the requirements for licensure renewal and the serious implications of the disciplinary process. The Board maintains a clear structure for regulating all professionals, from those seeking initial registration to veteran Clinical Pharmacist Practitioners (CPP).

4. Continuing Education (CE) Requirements Remain Strict

For pharmacists, the annual license renewal process is tied to mandatory Continuing Pharmacy Education (CPE). The requirements have been stable but must be meticulously followed.

• The Mandate: Pharmacists must complete fifteen (15) hours of CPE each year.
• The "Live" Rule: Crucially, five (5) of those hours must be "live" CE. Live CE includes programs where the pharmacist can interact with the presenter in real-time.
• Accepted Providers: The Board accepts CE accredited by ACPE (Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education) and NCAP (NC Association of Pharmacists).

5. The Two Paths for Pharmacy Technician Registration

North Carolina requires all pharmacy technicians to officially register with the state. The process distinguishes between two types of technicians:

• Non-Certified Technicians: Must be employed in a pharmacy and complete specific on-the-job training.
• Certified Technicians: Must pass a national certification exam, such as the PTCB (Pharmacy Technician Certification Board) or the ExCPT Certification. Certification simplifies the registration process and is often preferred by employers.
• Renewal Note: Technicians must renew their registration annually, ensuring their contact and employment information is always current with the NCBOP.

6. Understanding the Disciplinary Action Process

The disciplinary process is a serious matter, often initiated by a consumer complaint or a state investigation. The Board’s primary goal is to protect the public health, and it takes all allegations seriously.

• The Timeline: Once a complaint is filed, the investigative process can be lengthy, often taking six months or more before a final decision is reached.
• Outcomes: Actions can range from a letter of caution to fines, mandatory remedial education, probation, or in severe cases, license revocation or Voluntary Surrender.
• Legal Counsel: Even accidental or administrative errors can lead to disciplinary action, underscoring the necessity of seeking legal counsel when facing a Board inquiry.

7. The Role of the Clinical Pharmacist Practitioner (CPP)

The Clinical Pharmacist Practitioner (CPP) role is a specialized license allowing pharmacists to provide advanced patient care under a collaborative practice agreement.

• Enhanced CE: CPPs have an elevated Continuing Education requirement, needing 35 hours of CE annually, which includes the 15 hours required for their standard pharmacist license renewal.
• Topical Entities: This advanced role highlights the NCBOP's commitment to expanding the scope of practice for pharmacists in areas like chronic disease management and medication therapy management.

Staying Compliant with North Carolina Pharmacy Law

The complexity of the North Carolina Pharmacy Practice Act and the constantly updated NC Board of Pharmacy Rules means that compliance is an ongoing, proactive effort. All licensees should regularly consult the Board's official website for the latest Newsletters and legal resources.

The Board's mission is clear: to promote and protect the public health, safety, and welfare. By understanding and adhering to the upcoming MPJE changes, the new technician rules, and the strict CSRS enforcement, practitioners can ensure their continued good standing and contribute to the highest standards of pharmacy care in North Carolina.