Pharmacy
Welcome!
info DOPL Temporarily Suspends Enforcement of e-Prescribing Requirement for Controlled Substances
- See "Pharmacy E-Prescribing Law Delay Notice"
effective 01/01/2022
Electronic Prescriptions for Controlled Substances
Beginning January 1, 2022, Utah Code Annotated 58-37-22 requires that most* prescriptions issued for a controlled substance be transmitted electronically as an electronic prescription; however, you may apply for a limited extension by submitting the form linked below.
Electronic Prescriptions for Controlled Substances: Request for Limited Extension to Comply 
*For information on exemptions, please see Utah Code Annotated 58-37-22.
While a prescriber is permitted to use any vendor, the Division* is aware of the vendors identified on the list below.
Electronic Prescribing Vendors 
*The Division does not endorse any particular vendor, and the information on this resource sheet may change at any time.
Frequently Asked Questions
DOPL
PO BOX 146741
Salt Lake City, UT 84118
DOPL/pharmacy board
PO BOX 146741
Salt Lake City, UT 84114
- Bureau of Criminal Investigations https://bci.utah.gov/
Pharmacists - 30 hours of Continuing Education.
Pharmacy Technician - 20 hours of Continuing Education.
1. Log into www.dopl.utah.gov/pharm
2. Open the licensing tab
3. Select "Change your Name/Address"
Contact PTCB at: https://www.ptcb.org/get-certified/prepare-for-the-ptce#.W5rcgflKjcs
Contact NHA for ExCPT at: https://www.nhanow.com/
Exam Information
Pharmacists
In order to be licensed as a pharmacist in Utah, applicants must pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) and the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination for Utah (UT MJPE). Both of these exams are administered by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP).
Foreign-Educated Pharmacists
Applicants for the Utah Pharmacist license, who received their education and/or license in a foreign country, must be certified by the Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Examination Committee (FPGEC). In order to receive this certification, candidates must pass the Pharmacy Graduate Equivalency Examination (FPGEE) administered by NABP.
Pharmacy Technicians
In order to be licensed as a pharmacy technician in Utah, applicants must pass either the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination (PTCE) administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the Exam for Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
Apply for a License
STEP 1: Please select the license type you are applying for:
- Pharmacy Technician Trainee
- Pharmacy Technician
- Pharmacy Intern
- Pharmacist
- Temporary Pharmacist
- Pharmacy
- Online Contract Pharmacy
- Dispensing Medical Pracitioner
- Dispensing Medical Pracitioner Clinic
- Eligible Charity Pharmacy Registration
- Remote Dispensary Pharmacy
REQUIREMENTS – Before proceeding, the following requirements must be met:
- If 18 or older on the date submitting this application, submit an original “Criminal History Report” from the Utah Bureau of Criminal History. For information on how to obtain this report, please see bci.utah.gov
If you are currently licensed as a Pharmacy Technician in a state, territory, or district of the United States you may qualify for licensure by endorsement. Click here for additional information.
REQUIREMENTS – Before proceeding, the following requirements must be met:
- Fingerprint cards. Click here to visit our Fingerprint Information Page for details
- Completed Affidavit of Education
- Copy of current Certification of Pharmacy Technician (ExCPT) or National Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination (PTCB)
REQUIREMENTS – Before proceeding, the following requirements must be met:
- Fingerprint cards. Click here to visit our Fingerprint Information Page for details
- Have a completed Statement of Intern Eligibility
If you are currently licensed as a Pharmacist in a state, territory, or district of the United States you may qualify for licensure by endorsement. Click here for additional information.
REQUIREMENTS – Before proceeding, the following requirements must be met:
- Have passed the NAPLEX and UT MPJE exams (required before you apply)
- Fingerprint cards. Click here to visit our Fingerprint Information Page for details
- U.S. Graduate - Official transcripts documenting completion of an ACPE accredited program. Note: Transcripts are considered “official” when they are sent directly from the school to DOPL or sealed in an envelope bearing the school’s stamp/seal on the envelope flap.
- Foreign Graduate - Copy of FPGEC Certificate
- Verification of 1,740 if a U.S. Graduate
- Verification of 1,440 if Foreign Graduate
REQUIREMENTS – Before proceeding, the following requirements must be met:
- Official Transcripts confirming degree and date conferred (MUST have graduated in the last two months)
- Have registered for Naplex and Utah MPJE
- Completed Temporary form signed by supervising pharmacist
REQUIREMENTS – Before proceeding, the following requirements must be met:
- Facility must be in Utah
- Registered with the Utah Division of Corporations & Registrations
- Fingerprint cards for the Pharmacist and Pharmacist Supervisor. Click here to visit our Fingerprint Information Page for details
REQUIREMENTS – Before proceeding, the following requirements must be met:
- Facility must be in Utah
- Registered with the Utah Division of Corporations & Registrations
- Fingerprints cards for the Pharmacist In Charge, Consulting Pharmacist and Pharmacist In Charge Supervisor, On-Site Supervisor. Click here to visit our Fingerprint Information Page for details
REQUIREMENTS – Before proceeding, the following requirements must be met:
- Registered with the Utah Division of Corporations & Commercial Code
- Designated Representative (Must have at least three years experience in the manufacture or distribution of prescription drugs/devices.
- Fingerprint cards for the Designated Representative and Designated Representative Supervisor. Click here to visit our Fingerprint Information Page for details
REQUIREMENTS – Before proceeding, the following requirements must be met:
- Registered with the Utah Division of Corporations & Commercial Code
- Fingerprint cards for the Pharmacist In Charge, Consulting Pharmacist and Pharmacist In Charge Supervisor, On-Site Supervisor. Click here to visit our Fingerprint Information Page for details
- Official verification from the Board of Pharmacy of the state where the pharmacy is physically located indicating licensure in good standing.
- Copy of a state inspection report from the Board of Pharmacy of the state where the pharmacy is physically located completed within the last year indicating compliance with laws and regulations for the facility.
- Copy of a current license for the Pharmacist-in-Charge
REQUIREMENTS – Before proceeding, the following requirements must be met:
Utah Applicants- Registered with the Utah Division of Corporations & Commercial Code
- Fingerprint cards for for Responsible Individual and Alternate Individual. Click here to visit our Fingerprint Information Page for details
- Completed "Pharmacy Inspection Referral". (Utah applicants ONLY)
- If applying for an Analytical Laboratory, Animal Euthanasia, Animal Narcotic Detection Training or Human Clinical Investigational Drug Research Facility license, you must provide a complete list of all drugs that you are requesting authorization to have on site
- Official verification from the Board of Pharmacy of the state where the pharmacy is physically located indicating licensure in good standing.
- Copy of a state inspection report from the Board of Pharmacy of the state where the pharmacy is physically located completed within the last year indicating compliance with laws and regulations for the facility.
- Copy of a current license for the Pharmacist-in-Charge
REQUIREMENTS – Before proceeding, the following requirements must be met:
- Must already have a Class A Retail Pharmacy or Class B Closed Door Pharmacy license in good standing.
- Must have contracts between this Online Contract Pharmacy, each online prescriber, and the online internet facilitator.
- Certificate of Liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $1,000,000 per occurrence and a policy limit of not less than $3,000,000.
- Remote Dispensing Pharmacy Application
- Fingerprint cards. Click here to visit our Fingerprint Information Page for details
Renew a License
- Licenses expire on September 30 of odd years.
- At least 60 days prior to the expiration date of a license, DOPL will mail a renewal notice to the licensee's address of record as provided to DOPL by the individual licensee. (Failure to notify DOPL of an address change could prevent a licensee from timely receiving renewal notification and other important correspondence from DOPL.)
REQUIREMENTS – Before proceeding, the following requirements must be met:
- Completed 20 hours of CEU’s or have an ACTIVE PTCB or EXCPT certification.
NOTE: If you are applying for reinstatement or re-applying for a license you once had, you must use the manual application below.
REQUIREMENTS – Before proceeding, the following requirements must be met:
- 30 hours approved by ACPE
NOTE: If you are applying for reinstatement or re-applying for a license you once had, you must use the manual application below.
NOTE: If you are applying for reinstatement or re-applying for a license you once had, you must use the manual application below.
NOTE: If you are applying for reinstatement or re-applying for a license you once had, you must use the manual application below.
Additional Forms
- Change of Pharmacist in Charge
- Change of Designated Representative / Responsible Individual
- Controlled Substance Database Questionnaire
- Application for Inactive Licensure
- Pharmacy Surrender
- Class A Retail Pharmacy Inspection Form
- Class B Branch Inspection Form
- Class B Closed Door Inspection Form
- Class B Methadone Clinic Inspection Form
- Class B Nuclear Inspection Form
- Class B Pharmaceutical Admin Facility Inspection Form
- Class C Wholesaler-Distributer-Manufacturer Inspection Form
- Class E Animal Control Narcotic Detection Training Inspection Form
- Class E Durable Medical Equipment Inspection Form
- Class E Human Clinical investigational Drug Research Facility Inspection Form
- Class E Medical Gas Provider Inspection Form
- Class E Pharmacy Inspection Form
- Dispensing Medical Practitioner Clinical Pharmacy Inspection Form
- Automated Pharmacy System Inspection Form
- Non Sterile Compounding Inspection Form
- Remote Dispensing Pharmacy Inspection Form
- Sterile Compounding Inspection Form
- Volunteer Health Care Practitioner
- Request to Extend: Pharmacy Technician Trainee License
Update Your License Record
Legal Name Change
If your legal name has changed, you must verify the change by submitting a copy of a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, driver's license, or social security card to the Division. If you desire a reprint of your license reflecting the name change, you must also submit a $10 reprint fee with the request.
- EMAIL: doplweb@utah.gov
- FAX: 801-530-6511
- MAIL: PO Box 146741, Salt Lake City, UT 84114-6741
Change of Address
You may update your address online in the eGov system.
Laws and Rules
- DOPL Licensing Act, 58-1
- General Rule of the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing, R156-1.
- Pharmacy Practice Act, 58-17b
- Division Utah Administrative Procedures Act Rule, R156-46b
- Pharmacy Practice Act Rule, R156-17b
- Utah Controlled Substances Act, 58-37
- Utah Controlled Substance Act Rule, R156-37
- Controlled Substance Database Act, 58-37f
- Controlled Substance Database Act Rule, R156-37f
- Health Care Providers Immunity from Liability Act, 58-13
- Retired Volunteer Health Care Practitioner Act, 58-81
- Utah Health Care Malpractice Act, Title 78B, Chapter 3, Part 4
- Retired Volunteer Health Care Practitioner Act Rule R156-81
- Online Prescribing, Dispensing, and Facilitation Licensing Act, 58-83
- Online Prescribing, Dispensing, and Facilitation Licensing Act Rule, R156-83
Board Members event_seat=Chairperson
Name | Appointed | Expires |
---|---|---|
Christopher Sheard (Pharmacist) | 07/01/2018 | 06/30/2022 |
Karen M. Gunning, Pharm.D. (Pharmacist) | 07/01/2019 | 06/30/2023 |
Gary A. Hale, R.Ph. (Pharmacist) | 07/01/2019 | 06/30/2023 |
Shaun P. Curran, PA-C (Public Member) | 04/25/2022 | 06/30/2024 |
Sepideh Daeery (Pharmacist) | 07/01/2020 | 06/30/2024 |
Autumn Hawks (Pharmacy Technician) | 07/01/2019 | 06/30/2025 |
Carrie B. Dunford. event_seat (Pharmacist) | 09/07/2017 | 06/30/2025 |
Upcoming Public Meetings
Past Public Meetings
Committee Members event_seat=Chairperson
Name | Appointed | Expires |
---|---|---|
Casey L. Sayre, Pharm.D, Ph.D. | 02/04/2020 | 06/30/2021 |
Jeremy James Olsen, Pharm.D. | 02/04/2020 | 06/30/2022 |
Adam R. Taintor, MD | 02/04/2020 | 06/30/2022 |
Chris Cox, Pharm.D. | 02/04/2020 | 06/30/2023 |
Hali O'Malley, Pharm.D. | 02/04/2020 | 06/30/2023 |
Christopher M. Kane, Pharm.D. | 02/04/2020 | 06/30/2024 |
Matthew Higley, Pharm.D. event_seat | 02/04/2020 | 06/30/2024 |
Upcoming Public Meetings
Past Public Meetings
Contact Us
- For general licensing questions call or email:
- (801) 530-6628
(866) 275-3675 Toll-Free in Utah
b3@utah.gov - Bureau Manager
- Lisa Martin — lmartin@utah.gov
- Board Secretary
- Maree Christensen — mtchristensen@utah.gov
Websites
Resources
- Standing Order for Pharmacist Dispensing of Hormonal Contraception
- Standing Order for Dispensing COVID-19 At-Home Tests and COVID-19 Home Collection Kits to Utah Medicaid Beneficiaries
- Vaccine Protocol
- Standing Order for COVID-19 Testing
- Standing Order for Naloxone
- Creation of Board of Pharmacy Compounding Task Force
- The Utah Hormonal Contraception Questionnaire
- The Utah Hormonal Contraception Questionnaire (Spanish)
- Standard Procedures Algorithm for Prescribing of Contraceptives excluding DMPA
- The U.S. Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use
- Utah Clinical Guidelines on Prescribing Opioids for Treatment of Pain
- USP 800 Proposal
- Peer Advisory Committee Application
- Controlled Substances Inventory Log
- Pharmacist in Charge Responsibility Checklist
- Utah Guidance for Naloxone
- Utah Guidance for PrEP PEP
- COVID-Workforce Contingency and Crisis Staffing
- Guidance Essential Copies
- Utah Guidance for Administered Hormonal Contraceptives
- Utah Guidance for Tobacco Cessation Products
- Creation of Board of Pharmacy Compounding Task Force
Overview

DOPL offers about 60 categories of licensure and many do NOT automatically deny an applicant based on their criminal history. However, some crimes may result in DOPL denying a license. DOPL must carefully review crimes that may "substantially" relate to an individual's ability to safely or competently practice their occupation or profession. For example, convictions for crimes such as theft and fraud have relevance for licensees that have access to money, such as CPAs. This is in keeping with one of DOPL’s main goals when issuing licenses: protecting the citizens of Utah.
A few license statutes require automatic denial of the license for certain crimes. For example, you cannot hold a nursing license if you have been convicted of a violent felony, and you cannot hold an armed private security officer license if you have a conviction that restricts you from possessing a firearm.
To assist applicants, DOPL has created Criminal History Guidelines for each occupation and profession it licenses. The Criminal History Guidelines can help applicants identify particular crimes that may "substantially" affect their ability to safely or competently practice a certain occupation or profession.
To view DOPL’s Criminal History Guidelines, refer to the Criminal History menu item on the specific occupation/profession page on DOPL’s website.
Keep in mind, these are only guidelines and individualized consideration of an applicant’s or licensee’s current circumstances and existing laws and rules will influence licensing decisions. For more information, read the FAQs, especially FAQ 18: "What factors regarding criminal history will DOPL consider relevant to a licensing decision?"
Frequently Asked Questions
You must submit your request using DOPL's Application for Criminal History Determination.
You must pay the required fee of $50.00 and provide all information and attachments required by the application before DOPL will begin its review.
No, you do not have to be in school or receiving any education or experience to request a Criminal History Determination. Anyone considering applying for a license regulated by DOPL may apply to have DOPL review their information and issue a written Criminal History Determination.
It is okay if you do not yet meet all (or any) of the qualifications for the license you are interested in, such as required education, experience, or examinations. The Application for Criminal History Determination will simply ask you to describe the qualifications that you have and have not completed and your expected timeline for completion.
- $50.00 non-refundable application-processing fee, made payable to "DOPL".
- For EACH charge, plea, or conviction:
- Police Reports
- Court Records
At minimum, obtain a complete court docket. Additional items such as sentencing, evaluations, etc. may also be included. If you were ordered to pay fines or restitution, your court documents must include payment details. - Probation/Parole Officer Records
If you were ordered to complete "court monitored probation", you must include with your court records documents proving your successful completion of probation. - Personal Narrative addressing the incident
Include an explanation of any changes you have made in your life since the incident that may assist DOPL in understanding rehabilitation efforts. The narrative must be in your own words. However, you may attach any additional documents or information that you want DOPL to review. For example, you may attach records showing:- completion of or active participation in rehabilitative drug or alcohol treatment
- completion of sentences and time elapsed since your offense with no new relevant criminal history
- testimonials and letters of recommendation from other individuals, such as a progress report from your probation or parole officer or letters from your employers or teachers
- completion of education and training and/or education/training achievements
- favorable/steady employment history
- additional information that would help DOPL determine whether or not you are eligible for licensure
Knowing what is on your criminal history record is critical, as DOPL is one of the few agencies that WILL view and consider "no contest" pleas and pleas in abeyance (and may, in some rare circumstances, view and consider expunged criminal records or arrests, or a juvenile record that impacts the applicant's ability to possess a firearm).
To help ensure the information you submit for review is as complete and accurate as possible, you may obtain a copy of your criminal history from either sources listed below. If DOPL issues a favorable Determination, and later finds undisclosed criminal history, it may invalidate the Determination.
- Obtain a copy of your UTAH criminal history records: See Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification (https://bci.utah.gov/criminal-history-records/) or Right of Access Agencies (https://bci.utah.gov/forms/list-of-right-of-access-agencies/).
- To obtains a copy of your Federal (FBI) Identity History: https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/identity-history-summary-checks
The following types of criminal incidents usually must be reported:
- any misdemeanor, in any jurisdiction, in the last 10 years
- any felony, in any jurisdiction
- any active or pending criminal action (including arrests)
Please Note:
- You must disclose each charge, plea, or conviction, even if it was later held in abeyance, diverted, reduced, or dismissed through a plea agreement.
- You must disclose motor vehicle offenses such as driving while impaired or intoxicated. However, you do not need to disclose minor traffic offenses such as parking or speeding violations.
- You do not need to report juvenile records; however, convictions of a minor tried as an adult outside of juvenile court must be reported.
- You must disclose if you are restricted from possession, purchase, transfer, or ownership of a firearm or ammunition (even if your restriction is based on a non-reportable juvenile conviction).
- You do not need to disclose legally expunged or sealed criminal history incidents. See Question 17 of the FAQs for more information on expungements.
DOPL is one of the few agencies that may view and consider "no contest" pleas and pleas in abeyance (and may, in some rare circumstances, view and consider expunged criminal records or arrests). Even if you received probation without a conviction, or you did not actually go to jail or prison, you may still need to report that information to DOPL. When in doubt, it is better to disclose.
- any misdemeanor, in any jurisdiction, in the last 10 years
- any felony, in any jurisdiction
- any active or pending criminal action (including arrests)
- any misdemeanor, in any jurisdiction, in the last 10 years
- any felony, in any jurisdiction
- any active or pending criminal action (including arrests)
Please Note:
- You must disclose each charge, plea, or conviction, even if it was later held in abeyance, diverted, reduced, or dismissed through a plea agreement.
- You must disclose motor vehicle offenses such as driving while impaired or intoxicated. However, you do not need to disclose minor traffic offenses such as parking or speeding violations.
- You do not need to report juvenile records; however, convictions of a minor tried as an adult outside of juvenile court must be reported.
- You must disclose if you are restricted from possession, purchase, transfer, or ownership of a firearm or ammunition (even if your restriction is based on a non-reportable juvenile conviction).
- You do not need to disclose legally expunged or sealed criminal history incidents. See Question 17 of the FAQs for more information on expungements.
It depends on the license you wish to obtain.
A few licenses do have specific prohibitions that will result in the automatic denial of the license. For example, you cannot obtain a nursing license if you have been convicted of a violent felony, and you cannot obtain an armed private security officer license if you have a conviction that prohibits you from possessing a firearm.
To assist applicants for licensure, DOPL has created Criminal History Guidelines for each occupation and profession it licenses. The Guidelines explain criminal history factors that are considered in a decision whether or not to grant a license. The Guidelines also describe why particular crimes "substantially" relate to an individual's ability to safely or competently practice that specific occupation or profession.
To view the Criminal History Guidelines, refer to your specific occupation/profession page on our website. Keep in mind, these are only guidelines and individual consideration of an applicant’s or licensee’s circumstances and the current laws and rules will influence licensing decisions.
DOPL always provides individualized consideration to each applicant or licensee to determine whether a criminal conviction bears a "substantial" relationship to the applicant's or licensee's ability to safely or competently practice their occupation or profession. DOPL considers current circumstances, which may include:
- the age of the applicant or licensee when the applicant or licensee committed the offense;
- the time that has elapsed since the applicant or licensee committed the offense;
- whether the applicant or licensee has completed their criminal sentence;
- whether the applicant has completed or is actively participating in rehabilitative drug or alcohol treatment;
- any testimonials or recommendations from other individuals provided by the applicant or licensee, including a progress report from the applicant's or licensee's probation or parole officer;
- other evidence of rehabilitation provided by the applicant or licensee;
- the education and training of the applicant or licensee;
- the employment history of the applicant or licensee; and
- other relevant information provided by the applicant or licensee.
The following factors may also be relevant to the licensing decision:
- aggravating circumstances, as defined in Utah Admin. Code R156-1-102(2)
- mitigating circumstances, as defined in Utah Admin. Code R156-1-102(17)
- the degree of risk to the public health, safety or welfare
- the degree of risk that a conduct will be repeated
- the degree of risk that a condition will continue
- the magnitude of the conduct or condition as it relates to harm or potential harm
- the length of time since the last conduct or condition has occurred
- the current criminal probationary or parole status of the applicant or licensee
- the current administrative status of the applicant or licensee
- results of previously submitted applications for any regulated profession or occupation
- results from any action taken by any professional licensing agency, criminal or administrative agency, employer, practice monitoring group, entity or association
- evidence indicating that restricting or monitoring an individual's practice, conditions or conduct can protect the public health, safety or welfare
- psychological evaluations
- any other information DOPL or the board reasonably believes may assist in evaluating the degree of threat or potential threat to the public health, safety or welfare
There are also some special exceptions. DOPL will not take into account a conviction for which the individual's incarceration ended more than seven years before the date of DOPL’s consideration, unless there is additional criminal conduct after the incarceration, or the conviction was for a violent felony, or a felony related to a criminal sexual act or criminal fraud or embezzlement.
For more information, see Utah Code Sections 58-1-401 and 58-1-501, and Utah Admin. Code R156-1-302, or consult with an attorney.
To assist applicants for licensure, DOPL has created Criminal History Guidelines for each occupation and profession it licenses. The Guidelines explain criminal history factors that are considered in a decision whether or not to grant a license, and describe for each occupation or profession why particular crimes may be considered to "substantially" relate to an individual's ability to safely or competently practice that occupation or profession. To view the Guidelines, refer to each occupation or profession specific page on our website.
DOPL is required to issue a Determination letter within 30 days after receiving a complete Application for Criminal History Determination.
Please Note:
- An application is not considered complete until all required information, attachments, and fees have been submitted.
- If your application is incomplete, you will receive notice of the deficiencies that includes a deadline to reply. If you do not reply by the deadline, the application will be denied (i.e., your application will not be considered, and no determination will be made).
- If you choose to begin the process again after your application has been denied as incomplete, you will need to submit a new application with all required items, and pay a new application fee.
If you receive a favorable determination, DOPL will stand by its favorable determination and it is likely that your criminal history will not prevent you from obtaining that license.
However, a word of caution: Your determination may be invalidated if the law changes, or if your determination was not based on complete or accurate information.
Any determination, whether favorable or unfavorable, is based on the statutory authority and administrative rules governing the identified license at the time of the application. Future changes in licensing laws may impact the determination made.
Additionally, if you later apply for a license, you will be subject to a new review of your criminal history. DOPL’s decision may be different if it discovers additional negative information not previously known to DOPL. New negative information may appear because you have accrued new criminal history, or because the information that you provided with your application contained misrepresentations or intentional or unintentional omissions. Such circumstances may invalidate a favorable determination.
Not necessarily.
Any determination, whether favorable or unfavorable, is based on the statutory authority and administrative rules governing the identified license at the time of the application. Future changes in licensing laws may impact the determination made.
Also, if you later apply for a license or for another criminal history determination, you will be subject to a new review of your criminal history, and at that time DOPL’s decision could be different because of beneficial changes in your circumstances or criminal history record. Beneficial changes could include, for example, passage of time since prior offense(s) with no new relevant criminal history, completion of any criminal sentences, expungements from your criminal record, completion of or active participation in rehabilitative drug or alcohol treatment, completion of education and training, favorable employment history, or any other positive information not previously known to or considered by DOPL that would favor granting you a license.
For more information, see question 10.
Yes, you may apply for a license at any time.
Expungements, pardons, and "set asides" do not remove or destroy any part of a criminal record.
Expungements: You do not need to report legally expunged or sealed criminal history incidents. In Utah, legal expungement means that you have obtained a criminal expungement order under Title 77, Chapter 40, Utah Expungement Act. This includes those charges that may qualify for automatic expungement under Utah's Clean Slate law.
**You cannot rely on the fact that someone, even your attorney or a judge, verbally told you that a charge or crime would not appear in your record. Similarly, you cannot rely on the fact that your previous offense may qualify under Utah's Clean Slate law. You must verify with the jurisdiction where your expungement occurred to determine if the charge or crime will appear on a government background check. **
When in doubt, disclose. This is critical, because "expungement" differs from state to state. For example, California's primary type of expungement is similar to Utah "dismissed" charges. It doesn't show up for the general public, but the expungement order itself states it must be disclosed to all government agencies. You would still need to report this type of expunged crime to DOPL.
Note that DOPL may also -- in very rare cases -- ask an applicant to provide information from an expunged record. DOPL is one of the few agencies that may receive expunged records upon specific request.
Pardons: A pardon does not seal a record or null a conviction, but symbolizes forgiveness for all or part of a conviction. As such, the underlying convictions do need to be reported, but you should include information regarding your pardon as supporting documentation for DOPL to consider.
Set Aside: "Set Aside" is a general term that can mean many things, but generally means that the original judgment was changed in some way. For example, in Arizona there is no expungement, but a judgment that is "set aside" only needs to be reported in certain instances. You must verify with the jurisdiction that issued the "set aside" to determine exactly what it means, and if it will be released on a government background check.
For example, the charge may have been set aside due to the completion of a plea in abeyance, also commonly referred to as "dismissed" in Utah. This does not seal the record, but it may mean that it does not appear on non-government background checks. DOPL, however, will receive this information as part of a complete criminal background check.
Dismissed as a result of a plea in abeyance: Any plea in abeyance, even those resulting in a dismissal, need to be reported with your criminal history. Having a charge dismissed as a result of a successful plea in abeyance is a mitigating factor that DOPL will consider in your determination.
Finally, please note that if DOPL issues a favorable Determination that supports issuing you a license and then later finds that you have more criminal history that DOPL had not considered, DOPL’s conclusion may change and your favorable Determination may be invalidated.
Expungement Resources
While not required, expungement can be an alternative for some applicants. If you would like additional information on expungement, the following sites may be useful:
- Utah's Clean Slate law went into effect in February, 2022. The law allows for automatic expungement of some offenses. Learn more at https://www.cleanslateutah.org.
- Salt Lake County's Expungement Tool Kit is an online, community resource for individuals who find they have records that do not qualify under the Clean Slate law. This is a self-service guide, broken down in 4 steps that assists individuals looking to complete the expungement process without an attorney. Learn more at: https://slco.org/cji/expungement-guide/.
- The Utah Courts website has a self-help page that explains expungements in detail and explains each step of the expungement process. It also provides all of the required forms for filing. Learn more at: https://www.utcourts.gov/howto/expunge/.
- Utah Legal Services sometimes provides free or reduced-fee expungement services for many Utah citizens. Learn more at: https://www.utahlegalservices.org/.
- The Salt Lake City Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice Initiatives may be able to provide information and assistance with expungement. One of the initiatives is to help individuals clear their criminal records, allowing them to access better employment, housing and educational opportunities. Learn more at: https://slco.org/cjac/initiatives-priorities/
- Utah Juvenile Delinquency Record Expungement may be able to provide information and resources on expungement of juvenile records. Learn more at: https://sites.google.com/view/utahjdre.
Please Note: DOPL cannot answer questions regarding expungement and cannot assist you with filing for expungement.
DOPL always provides individualized consideration to each applicant or licensee to determine whether a criminal conviction bears a "substantial" relationship to the applicant's or licensee's ability to safely or competently practice their occupation or profession. DOPL considers current circumstances, which may include:
- the age of the applicant or licensee when the applicant or licensee committed the offense;
- the time that has elapsed since the applicant or licensee committed the offense;
- whether the applicant or licensee has completed their criminal sentence;
- whether the applicant has completed or is actively participating in rehabilitative drug or alcohol treatment;
- any testimonials or recommendations from other individuals provided by the applicant or licensee, including a progress report from the applicant's or licensee's probation or parole officer;
- other evidence of rehabilitation provided by the applicant or licensee;
- the education and training of the applicant or licensee;
- the employment history of the applicant or licensee; and
- other relevant information provided by the applicant or licensee.
The following factors may also be relevant to the licensing decision:
- aggravating circumstances, as defined in Utah Admin. Code R156-1-102(2)
- mitigating circumstances, as defined in Utah Admin. Code R156-1-102(17)
- the degree of risk to the public health, safety or welfare
- the degree of risk that a conduct will be repeated
- the degree of risk that a condition will continue
- the magnitude of the conduct or condition as it relates to the harm or potential harm
- the length of time since the last conduct or condition has occurred
- the current criminal probationary or parole status of the applicant or licensee
- the current administrative status of the applicant or licensee
- results of previously submitted applications, for any regulated profession or occupation
- results from any action, taken by any professional licensing agency, criminal or administrative agency, employer, practice monitoring group, entity or association
- evidence presented indicating that restricting or monitoring an individual's practice, conditions or conduct can protect the public health, safety or welfare
- psychological evaluations
- any other information DOPL or the board reasonably believes may assist in evaluating the degree of threat or potential threat to the public health, safety or welfare
DOPL will not take into account a conviction for which the individual's incarceration ended more than seven years before the date of DOPL’s consideration, unless there is additional criminal conduct after the incarceration, or the conviction was for a violent felony, or a felony related to a criminal sexual act or criminal fraud or embezzlement.
To assist applicants, DOPL has created Criminal History Guidelines for each occupation and profession it licenses. The Criminal History Guidelines help identify the particular crimes that may "substantially" relate to an individual's ability to safely or competently practice a specific occupation or profession.
To view DOPL’s Criminal History Guidelines, refer to your specific occupation/profession page on DOPL’s website. Keep in mind, these are only guidelines and individual consideration of an applicant’s or licensee’s circumstances and the current laws and rules will influence licensing decisions.
For more information, see Utah Code Sections 58-1-401 and 58-1-501, and Utah Admin. Code R156-1-302, or consult with an attorney.
Criminal History Guidelines for Pharmacy
DISCLAIMER: The Division uses this matrix simply as a starting point in making its licensing or disciplinary decisions, and therefore it is provided only for general informational and guidance purposes. Every applicant and licensee is unique, with individual circumstances that may involve aggravating or mitigating or other factors, including patterns of conduct that may affect any final decision. Please consult your attorney if you have questions.
KEY: | Proceed with Application | Requires Manager Review & Possible Interview | Licensure Prohibited |
CHARGE | TIME FRAME (most recent charge) | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
0-12 months | 13-48 months | 5-10 years | 10+ years | |
Abuse or Neglect of a Child with a Disability | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Abuse, Neglect, or Exploitation of a Vulnerable Adult | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Alcohol Restricted Driver | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Animal Cruelty | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Arson | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Aggravated Arson | Review | Review | Review | Review |
Assault by a Prisoner | Review | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Assault | Review | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Aggravated Assault | Review | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Assault Against Police Officer/Military/Health Care Provider/EMS | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Burglary | Review | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Aggravated Burglary | Review | Review | Review | Review |
Burglary of a Vehicle | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Bus Hijacking | Review | Review | Review | Review |
Child Abuse | Review | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Communications Fraud | Review | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Criminal Mischief or Criminal Mischief Intentional Damage of Property | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Criminal Trespass | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Custodial Interference | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Damage to or Interruption of a Communication Device | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Deal in Harmful Material to a Minor | Review | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Disarming a Peace Officer | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Discharging Firearms and Hurling Missiles into Buses and Terminals | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Disorderly Conduct/ Continuing After Request to Stop | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Distribution of an Intimate Image | Review | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Distribution/Offer/Arrange Distribution of Controlled Substance | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Domestic Violence | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Domestic Violence in the Presence of a Child | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Drive With Measurable Amounts | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
DUI (Drive Under the Influence) | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Electronic Communication Harassment | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Endangerment of a Child or Vulnerable Adult | Review | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Enticing a Minor Over the Internet | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Exploitation of Prostitution - Aggravated | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Extortion or Bribery to Dismiss Criminal Proceedings | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Failure to Stop at Command of Law Enforcement | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
False Personal Info to Peace Officer | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Forgery | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Criminal Homicide: | ||||
-- Aggravated Murder | Review | Review | Review | Review |
-- Automobile Homicide | Review | Review | Review | Review |
-- Child Abuse Homicide | Review | Review | Review | Review |
-- Homicide by Assault | Review | Review | Review | Review |
-- Manslaughter | Review | Review | Review | Review |
-- Murder | Review | Review | Review | Review |
-- Negligent Homicide | Review | Review | Review | Review |
Human Trafficking/Smuggling | Review | Review | Review | Review |
Impaired Driving | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Impersonating an Officer | Review | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Interference with Public Servant | Review | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Intoxication/Public Intoxication | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Items Prohibited Correctional/Mental Health Facilities | Review | Issue | Issue | Issue |
"Joyriding" Unauthorized Control for Extended Time | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Kidnapping/Child Kidnapping/Aggravated Kidnapping | Review | Review | Review | Review |
Lewdness | Review | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Mayhem | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Obstruction of Justice | Review | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Open Container/ Drinking Alcohol in a Vehicle | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Patronizing a Prostitute | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Possession of Forged Writing or Device for Writing | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Possession of Marijuana | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Possession With Intent to Distribute | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Possession/Use of Controlled Substance | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Production/Transfer False Identification | Review | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Protective Order Entered/Violation | Review | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Purchase/Possession/Consumption of Alcohol by a Minor | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Purchase/Possession/Transfer/ Use of a Firearm by a Restricted Person | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Rape | Review | Review | Review | Review |
Rape of a Child | Review | Review | Review | Review |
Object Rape | Review | Review | Review | Review |
Reckless Driving/ Alcohol Related Reckless Driving | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Retail Theft | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Retaliation Against a Witness, Victim, or Informant | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Robbery | Review | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Securities Fraud | Review | Review | Review | Review |
Sexual Abuse of a Child | Review | Review | Review | Review |
Sexual Abuse of a Minor (14-16 year old) | Review | Review | Review | Issue |
Forcible Sex Abuse | Review | Review | Review | Review |
Aggravated Sexual Assault | Review | Review | Review | Review |
Sexual Battery | Review | Review | Review | Issue |
Sexual Exploitation of a Minor | Review | Review | Review | Review |
Sexual Exploitation of a Vulnerable Adult | Review | Review | Review | Issue |
Forcible Sodomy | Review | Review | Review | Review |
Sodomy on a Child | Review | Review | Review | Review |
Stalking | Review | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Tampering with Evidence | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Tampering with or Retaliation Against a Juror | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Tampering with a Witness | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Theft or Theft of Services | Review | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Threat of Terrorism | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Unlawful Acquisition/Possession/ Use of Financial Card | Review | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Unlawful Detention | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Unlawful Sexual Activity with a Minor | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a 16 or 17 Year Old | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
Use/Possession of Paraphernalia | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
Voyeurism | Review | Review | Issue | Issue |
** Non Substance-Related Traffic Offenses (ex: Parking, Speeding, Unsecured Load, Failure to Signal, Etc.) | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
** Other Misdemeanor Charges Not Listed Above (ex: Littering, Dog at Large, Fishing Without a License, Etc.) | Issue | Issue | Issue | Issue |
** Any Other Crime if on the Sex Offender Registry | Review | Review | Review | Review |
** 2nd and 3rd Degree Felony Charges (Any Charge within 7 Years) | Review | Review | Review | Issue |
** 1st Degree or Capital Felony (Any Charge) | Review | Review | Review | Review |
Application for Criminal History Determination
This application is for non-licensed use ONLY. Do not use when applying for or renewing a license.
Download Application Form 
Some licensing laws prohibit certain criminal history. You may submit this application at any time BEFORE applying for a license (even before completing any training or education for the license).
PLEASE NOTE: A Criminal History Determination Application IS NOT a BCI Report. To obtain a BCI Report, contact the Utah Bureau of Criminal History at the following link: https://bci.utah.gov/criminal-records/criminal-records-forms/
Application Process
What To Disclose In Your Application
Only the criminal incidents that you include in the application will be considered. Any omissions, either intentional or unintentional, may invalidate a Determination.
It is important to disclose all charges. DOPL receives information not released for non-government background checks. For example, a charge dismissed after successful completion of a plea in abeyance may not appear on most background checks, but it is released to DOPL. Passing previous background checks does not mean your background is clear.
The following types of criminal incidents usually must be reported:
- any misdemeanor, in any jurisdiction, in the last 10 years
- any felony, in any jurisdiction
- any active or pending criminal action (including arrests)
Each profession or occupation has different criteria and concerns regarding criminal history. For more information, read the FAQs, and review the Criminal History Guidelines for that specific profession or occupation on DOPL’s website.
How To Complete The Application
Fill out the general information on page 1 and 2.
Then, for EACH charge, plea, or conviction, fill out a copy of page 3: Criminal History Disclosure Statement. Attach complete copies of your required supporting documents for EACH copy of page 3.
You may attach as many copies of page 3 and as many documents as you need.
Fully complete all pages and submit all requested information and attachments. DOPL will not review an incomplete application.
Please Note:
- You must disclose each charge, plea, or conviction, even if it was later held in abeyance, diverted, reduced, or dismissed through a plea agreement.
- You must disclose motor vehicle offenses such as driving while impaired or intoxicated. However, you do not need to disclose minor traffic offenses such as parking or speeding violations.
- You do not need to report juvenile records; however, convictions of a minor tried as an adult outside of juvenile court must be reported.
- You must disclose if you are restricted from possession, purchase, transfer, or ownership of a firearm or ammunition (even if your restriction is based on a non-reportable juvenile conviction).
- You do not need to disclose legally expunged or sealed criminal history incidents. See Question 17 of the FAQs for more information on expungements.
DOPL Review and Decision
Upon receiving a complete Application for Criminal History Determination, DOPL will review all of the information submitted for the license you requested.
DOPL may also ask for additional information and may require you to come before the licensing board for an interview.
Within 30 days of receiving a complete application, DOPL will issue a Determination letter identifying whether the criminal history you have submitted for review would, or would not, disqualify you from obtaining the license, even if you completed all other licensing requirements.
Please note:
- Your Determination will be based on the statutory authority, administrative rules, and policies governing the identified license at the time of your application. Also, your Determination will be based solely on the information that you provide with your application. Any intentional or unintentional misrepresentations or omissions may impact the determination.
- If you later apply for a license, you will be subject to a new review of your criminal history. If you have received a favorable determination, DOPL will stand by its favorable determination and it is likely that your criminal history will not prevent you from obtaining that license. But note that licensing decisions may be impacted by a change in Utah's statutes, rules, or policies governing the license, or because of the discovery of additional information not previously known to DOPL.
Military Resources
Members of the armed forces and their families are often more affected than other groups by licensing restrictions because of frequent relocations. To ease this burden, the Utah Legislature has authorized certain fee waivers and license exemptions for qualifying military personnel and military spouses.
License Fee Waivers
Initial License and License Renewal
DOPL requires a processing fee for initial license applications and license renewal. This
fee varies by profession. The Utah Legislatures allows qualifying military service members to waive initial license and license renewal fees. Full-time
active duty service members should submit the fee waiver request form with their initial and renewal license application.
Download the fee waiver request form here.
Inactive License
Qualifying licensees who wish to maintain their license but who are not currently practicing in the profession can apply for inactive status. In some cases,
changing a license to inactive status will remove certain CE requirements. Qualifying military service members who change their license to inactive status or who renew an inactive license can submit a fee waiver. Please note that not all professions have inactive status as an option.
To check if your profession has inactive license status, refer to
Utah Administrative Rule R156-1-305.
Full-time active duty service members can download the fee waiver request form for inactive status here.
Licensing for Military Spouses

Spouses of military service members stationed in Utah are permitted to work in licensed professions without obtaining a Utah license as long as they possess an active license from another state or territory of the United States. Military spouses may need to explain this little-known benefit to an employer or member of the public questioning whether an out-of-state license is valid. To help, the Division has created a verification letter military spouses can use to show an employer or member of the public that explains this exemption. Download the verification letter here.
Additional Resources
Are you struggling with PTSD, depression, suicidal thoughts, or addiction?
The College of Social and Behavioral Science at the University of Utah provides free treatment for veterans, including therapy sessions, workshops, and a two-week residential treatment program for veterans with PTSD in Park City.
Learn more here.
The Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs (UDVMA) provides resources for veterans including education, employment, healthcare, and more. Learn more here.