Overview:
NJ residents can now get birth control from pharmacists without visiting a doctor under a new state law.
New Jersey residents now have a faster, simpler way to access birth control. Under a state law, individuals can obtain certain hormonal contraceptives directly from a pharmacist, without a prescription from a doctor or other health care provider.
This includes popular options like:
- Birth control pills
- The contraceptive patch
- The vaginal ring
How It Works
At participating pharmacies, individuals can request self-administered hormonal birth control. A short health questionnaire and an on-site blood pressure check are required. Based on this screening, a pharmacist can determine whether hormonal contraception is appropriate and safe.
If so, the pharmacist can provide the medication directly, without the need for a prior visit to a clinic or doctor.
Who Can Use This Service?
This service is available to:
- Individuals of any age, including minors
- Residents and non-residents of New Jersey
- People with or without insurance
No proof of residency is required, and confidentiality is protected.
What You Need to Bring
- A valid form of identification (if required by the pharmacy)
- Insurance card (optional, if you plan to use insurance)
- Be prepared to complete a health questionnaire and have your blood pressure checked
There is no prescription required beforehand. The process is designed to be completed entirely at the pharmacy.
Where to Go
Not all pharmacies are currently offering this service. Availability may vary by location as pharmacies implement the new procedures. To find a participating pharmacy:
- Call your local pharmacy and ask if they provide birth control without a prescription
- Visit the NJ Department of Health’s Reproductive Health Information Hub for updates and resources
Some locations may begin offering this service over time, so checking ahead is recommended.
Important Notes
- This law applies only to self-administered hormonal contraceptives (such as the pill, patch, and ring). It does not include IUDs, implants, or injections.
- Pharmacists can issue up to 12 months of contraception, depending on the pharmacy’s policy and your individual needs.
- Regular follow-up with a health care provider is still recommended to support overall reproductive health.
To learn more or locate services near you, visit reproductivehealth.nj.gov.
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