DEA Registrations, Renewals & Surrenders

Seamless DEA registration, renewal, and surrender support to keep your practice compliant.

A Short History of the DEA Registration:

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registration system was established in 1971 as part of the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act, also known as the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). The DEA is responsible for enforcing federal laws and regulations related to controlled substances in the United States. Under the Act, each person authorized to prescribe, dispense, manufacture and distribute controlled substances must have a DEA registration number.

Types of DEA Registrations:

DEA Registration for Practitioners

This type of registration is issued to healthcare professionals authorized to handle controlled substances for medical purposes. It includes physicians, dentists, veterinarians, and other healthcare providers.

DEA Registration for Dispensing Practitioners

Certain healthcare professionals that dispense controlled substances directly to patients, such as pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics are required to obtain separate DEA registration for dispensing.

DEA Registration for Researchers

Researchers conducting studies or experiments involving controlled substances must obtain a DEA registration specific to their research activities. This registration allows them to handle and distribute controlled substances for scientific purposes.

DEA Registration for Manufacturers and Distributors

Entities involved in the production, manufacturing, and distribution of controlled substances, such as pharmaceutical companies, chemical manufacturers, and wholesale distributors, require a DEA registration to carry out their operations legally.

50+ Combined
Years of Experience.

The Numbers and Letters on a DEA Registration

A DEA registration number consists of two letters followed by seven digits. The first letter represents the registrant’s type of business or profession:

The second letter is the first letter of the registrant’s last name or business name. The seven digits following the letters are assigned sequentially to each registrant within their respective category.

 It’s important to note that the DEA registration number is a unique identifier that allows the DEA and other authorized entities to track and regulate the handling of controlled substances by registered individuals and businesses.

DEA Registrations & Renewals

Determine your eligibility

Before applying for a DEA registration, ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements. Generally, healthcare practitioners who are authorized to handle controlled substances are eligible. If you are in a state in which a State controlled substance is required – you must obtain that first.

Obtain necessary forms

Adhere to FDA guidelines for the use of ketamine and esketamine, including approved uses and off-label prescribing norms.
Comply with DEA standards for storing, handling, and documenting controlled substances.

Complete the application

Follow state-specific regulations regarding the operation of medical clinics and the administration of ketamine. This can include facility licensing, professional credentialing, and patient care standards.

Gather supporting documents

Ensure that all healthcare providers have the appropriate qualifications, licenses, and training to administer ketamine and manage its effects.

Submit the application

Develop and adhere to protocols for patient selection, informed consent, treatment planning, and emergency care.
Implement monitoring and follow-up care procedures to ensure patient safety and treatment efficacy.

Notify the DEA

If you have an existing DEA registration and need to change your address, inform the DEA promptly. You should notify them of the change within 30 days of the address change.

Complete the change of address form

Obtain the DEA Form 224a, which is used specifically for address changes. Fill out the form accurately with your updated information.

Submit the form

Send the completed DEA Form 224a to the DEA, ensuring that it reaches them within the required timeframe. There is no fee associated with a change of address.

Stay informed about expiration

Be aware of the expiration date of your DEA registration. The DEA sends out renewal notices approximately 60 days before the expiration. Note: the DEA no longer sends out reminders in the mail, the DEA will provide renewal notices by email.

Renewal application form

Obtain the appropriate renewal application form from the DEA’s website. The most common form is DEA Form 224a for healthcare practitioners.

Complete the renewal application

Fill out the renewal form accurately, providing all requested information. Include any required documentation and fees, which may vary based on the type of registration.

Submit the renewal application

Send the completed renewal application form, along with any supporting documents and fees, to the DEA. It is advisable to submit the application well in advance of the expiration date to ensure timely processing.

When reviewing DEA renewal applications, the DEA considers various factors, including:

Compliance with regulations

The DEA evaluates whether the registrant has complied with all applicable laws, regulations, and record-keeping requirements regarding controlled substances.

History of controlled substance activity

The DEA assesses the registrant’s history of prescribing, dispensing, or handling controlled substances, ensuring that it aligns with legitimate medical purposes.

Compliance with state laws

Demonstrating compliance with state laws governing controlled substances is crucial for DEA renewal.

There are two types of surrender applicable to DEA registration:

Voluntary surrender

A registrant may voluntarily surrender their DEA registration by submitting a written notice to the DEA, expressing their intention to surrender. The registrant must return the original DEA registration certificate.

Involuntary surrender

The DEA may initiate administrative proceedings to revoke or suspend a DEA registration based on violations or non-compliance with regulations. In such cases, the registrant is subject to an administrative process, which includes hearings and potential sanctions.

If the DEA wishes to sanction a DEA registrant, the following administrative process typically takes place:

Notice of proposed action

The DEA issues a notice to the registrant, outlining the proposed sanctions or actions based on the alleged violations. The registrant has an opportunity to respond and request a hearing.

Administrative hearing

If the registrant requests a hearing, an administrative proceeding is conducted. This includes presenting evidence, arguments, and witnesses to support the registrant’s case.

Administrative law judge's decision

An administrative law judge (ALJ) reviews the evidence and arguments presented during the hearing and issues a recommended decision. The ALJ’s decision may include sanctions, such as revocation or suspension of the DEA registration.

Final decision by the DEA Administrator

The recommended decision is reviewed by the DEA Administrator, who makes the final decision regarding the sanctions. The Administrator can accept, modify, or reject the ALJ’s recommended decision.

Appeal process

If the registrant disagrees with the DEA Administrator’s decision, they may have the option to appeal the decision through the appropriate channels, such as federal courts or administrative review boards.

FAQ: DEA Registrations

Q: Who needs to obtain a DEA registration?

A: Healthcare practitioners, researchers, manufacturers, distributors, and entities involved in handling controlled substances for medical, scientific, or commercial purposes need to obtain a DEA registration.

Q: How do I apply for a DEA registration?

A: To apply for a DEA registration, visit the official DEA Diversion Control Division website and download the appropriate application form. Fill out the form accurately, provide necessary supporting documents, and submit it to the DEA along with the required fees.

Q: What is the process for changing my address on a DEA registration?

A: To change your address on a DEA registration, complete the DEA Form 224a (Change of Address Form) available on the DEA website. Submit the form to the DEA, notifying them of the address change within 30 days.

Q: How do I renew my DEA registration?

A: The DEA sends renewal notices approximately 60 days before the expiration of your DEA registration. Complete the appropriate renewal application form, include any necessary documentation and fees, and submit it to the DEA well in advance of the expiration date.

Q: What factors are considered for DEA registration renewal?

A: The DEA analyzes factors such as compliance with regulations, adherence to record-keeping requirements, history of controlled substance activity, and compliance with state laws governing controlled substances during the renewal process.

Q: Can I surrender my DEA registration voluntarily?

A: Yes, you can surrender your DEA registration voluntarily by submitting a written notice expressing your intention to surrender to the DEA. You must also return the original DEA registration certificate.

Q: What are the consequences of surrendering a DEA registration?

A: Surrendering a DEA registration means you will no longer be authorized to handle controlled substances. It is important to understand the implications and consult with legal counsel if necessary.

Q: What are the types of DEA registration numbers?

A: DEA registration numbers start with two letters representing the registrant’s type of business or profession, followed by seven digits. The letters and digits serve as a unique identifier for each registrant.

Q: How long is a DEA registration valid?

A: DEA registrations are typically valid for three years. It is essential to keep track of the expiration date and renew the registration in a timely manner to ensure uninterrupted authorization to handle controlled substances.

Q: Can I check the status of my DEA registration online?

A: Yes, you can check the status of your DEA registration online by visiting the DEA Diversion Control Division website and utilizing their online verification system.

Q: What should I do if I lose my DEA registration certificate?

A: If you lose your DEA registration certificate, contact the DEA Diversion Control Division immediately to report the loss. They will provide guidance on the steps you need to take to obtain a duplicate certificate.

Q: Can a practitioner use their home address as the principal place of business or professional practice?

A: Yes, a registrant may use their home address. DEA regulations require a separate registration for each principal place of business where controlled substances are manufactured, distributed, imported, exported, or dispensed by a person. You are not prohibited from using your home address if, for instance, you operate a mobile clinic. However, remember that your home will now be subject to DEA record keeping and storage requirements.

Q: Can I use a home address on my current DEA registration?

A: No, your registered address must be the physical location of the principal place of business or professional practice.

Q: Can I change my current DEA registration address or do I need to get a new registration for a new location?

A: You can change your address on your DEA registration, but you should get a new registration if you are operating out of multiple locations.

Q: Can I prescribe controlled substances in states in which I am not licensed to practice?

A: No, while the DEA registration is a federal number you must have specific authorization to prescribe controlled substances in a state in which you practice.

OUR PROMISE TO OUR CLIENTS

Safe Harbor Group: A Nationally Trusted Healthcare Compliance Partner

With a national presence and two headquarters in Metro Detroit and Washington D.C., Safe Harbor Group is dedicated to serving healthcare organizations across the U.S. Our team of compliance experts is here to meet your unique needs, providing support wherever you’re located.