5e Cleric Spell Slots: Full Guide for 2026 DnD

Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition clerics in 2026 remain powerhouse healers with versatile spell slots. Updated playtest materials refine slot progression, making domain choices pivotal. This guide details slot tables, recovery, and optimization.

From level 1 cantrips to 9th-level miracles, master your divine arsenal for epic campaigns.

Step 1: Cleric Spell Slot Table

Analysis panel

Track slots by level: Level 1 gets 2, up to 4 at 5th. Short rest recovery for half.

  • 1st: 2 slots
  • 2nd+: Scales to 4
  • 9th: 1 at epic

Step 2: Preparing Spells Daily

Focus on domain lists.

Prepare Wis mod + level spells. Focus on domain lists.

  • Life domain heals
  • Light for blasts
  • Trickery illusions
Perspective: contrast at least two practical approaches.

Step 3: Channel Divinity Synergies

Editorial note: point out trade-offs, not only benefits.
Turn Undead + heals.

Pair with slots for bursts like Turn Undead + heals.

  • Destroy undead
  • Preserve life mass heal
  • Order domain commands

Step 4: Multiclass Considerations

clarifies totals.

Cleric/Paladin dips expand slots. 2026 errata clarifies totals.

  • Half-caster slots
  • Pact magic no overlap
  • Full caster priority

Step 5: Optimizing High-Level Play

Insight A

At 17+, twin Harm/Heal. Use beads

Insight B

for extra slots.

At 17+, twin Harm/Heal. Use beads for extra slots.

  • Spell mastery feats
  • Magic items boost
  • Rest optimization