Pharmacy Operating License

Opening a pharmacy in Germany requires a pharmacy operating license (Apothekenbetriebserlaubnis) under the Pharmacy Act (ApoG). Only licensed pharmacists (Apotheker) with a valid German Approbation may apply. Each pharmacy location needs its own license, and one pharmacist may operate up to three branch pharmacies in addition to a main pharmacy.

You apply at the state health authority responsible for your location. Required documents include your Approbation certificate, a police clearance (Führungszeugnis), proof of recent pharmaceutical work experience, and floor plans of the pharmacy premises showing that they meet size and equipment standards. The authority inspects the premises before issuing the license. Processing typically takes several weeks.