For healthcare providers in the United States, staying compliant with DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) regulations and understanding DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) numbers is crucial to healthcare practice.
These unique identifiers authorize the prescribing, handling, and distribution of controlled substances. However, keeping up with evolving regulations and common misconceptions can be challenging.
From registration and multi-state practice to compliance, telehealth, and legal considerations, providers face plenty of questions.
These include the following: Do you need separate DEA numbers for each state? What happens if your registration expires? Can you use your DEA number to access telehealth services?
This guide answers healthcare providers' top questions about DEA numbers in 2025. It covers registration, compliance, prescribing authority, and more.
This article will help you stay informed and compliant, whether you’re a physician, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or compliance officer.
Let’s get right in.
Basic DEA Registration Questions
1. What is a DEA number, and who needs one?
A DEA number is a unique identifier issued by the Drug Enforcement Administration to healthcare providers who prescribe, administer, or dispense controlled substances.
This number is required by federal law and helps track the distribution of controlled drugs to prevent misuse and ensure public safety.
So, who needs a DEA number?
- Physicians
- Nurse practitioners (NPs)
- Physician assistants (PAs)
- Dentists
- Veterinarians
- Pharmacists
- Optometrists
Exemptions exist, such as for military or federal employees using institutional DEA numbers.
Some common misconceptions include:
- You don’t need a DEA number to prescribe non-controlled medications like antibiotics
- An NPI (National Provider Identifier) is not the same as a DEA number. NPIs are used for billing, while DEA numbers authorize controlled substance prescribing
2. Is a DEA number different from other identifiers?
Yes. Here’s how they compare:
- DEA Number vs. NPI:
- An NPI is a 10-digit number used primarily for identifying healthcare providers in billing and administrative transactions. It is issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
- A DEA Number is issued by the DEA and is required for prescribing or handling controlled substances
- DEA Number vs. State Medical License:
- A state medical license authorizes you to practice medicine in a particular state
- A DEA number permits prescribing controlled substances nationwide (though state-specific rules still apply)
In practice, these identifiers work together. For instance, you need a valid state license to apply for a DEA number, and your DEA number must be registered with an accurate business address that aligns with your medical license.
3. What is the current fee for a DEA registration in 2025, and are there any discounts?
As of 2025, the DEA registration fee is $888 for a three-year term. This fee applies to most individual practitioners, including physicians, NPs, and PAs.
Discounts are available for the following groups:
- Government-employed providers (e.g., military or federal health service practitioners)
- Institutional providers such as hospitals may qualify for discounted rates for bulk registrations
NOTE: DEA registrations must be renewed every three years. You’ll receive a renewal notice well in advance, but it's your responsibility to ensure timely renewal.
Multi-State Practice Questions
1. Do I need a separate DEA number for each state where I practice?
Yes, in most cases. The DEA requires that your registration correspond with a physical practice location.
If you practice in multiple states and prescribe controlled substances in each, you’ll likely need separate DEA numbers for each state.
Exceptions:
- Federal Facilities: If you practice exclusively within a federal facility (like a VA hospital), one DEA number may be enough
- Telehealth Providers: The requirement varies by state. Some states accept an out-of-state DEA number for telehealth prescriptions, while others mandate an in-state registration
2. Can I use my DEA number when working as a locum tenens provider?
Yes, but there are specific conditions:
- If you're working temporarily in another state, you must ensure your DEA registration covers that state
- Some states require separate controlled substance registration in addition to the DEA number
- Documentation is important. You’d need to always carry proof of your DEA registration and ensure the temporary facility has verified your authority to prescribe controlled substances
3. Can I have more than one active DEA number?
Yes. Under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) and 21 C.F.R. § 1301.12(a), practitioners operating in multiple states must obtain a separate DEA registration for each state where they practice.
Application and Timeline Questions
1. How long does it take to get a DEA number after applying?
- Processing Time: On average, it takes 4 to 6 weeks to receive a DEA number after submitting a complete application
- Factors Affecting Processing: Delays may occur if documentation is incomplete, if your background check requires further review, or if additional verification is needed
- While Waiting: You cannot legally prescribe or handle controlled substances until your DEA number is issued
2. Can I expedite or renew my DEA application?
The DEA doesn't offer a standard, expedited process, but exceptions can occur in emergencies like natural disasters or critical healthcare shortages.
To request an expedited process:
- Contact the DEA directly
- Provide documentation explaining the urgent need
- Be prepared for additional scrutiny
Provider-Specific DEA Questions
1. Can nurse practitioners and physician assistants have their own DEA numbers?
Yes, but state-specific regulations apply.
Some states allow full prescribing authority, while others require supervision agreements with a physician. So, it’s best to check with your state’s medical board for exact requirements.
2. Do residents and fellows need their own DEA numbers?
During training, they can prescribe using the institution's DEA number under supervision.
However, upon transitioning to independent practice, they must apply for an individual DEA registration
3. Does a retired physician need to maintain a DEA registration?
Only if they intend to prescribe controlled substances on an occasional basis, otherwise, it's recommended to surrender the registration to avoid unnecessary fees and compliance burdens.
4. What DEA requirements apply when supervising non-physician providers?
When supervising non-physician providers, such as nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs), there are specific DEA-related responsibilities and legal considerations to ensure compliance.
- Supervising physicians must ensure that non-physician providers are prescribing controlled substances within their authorized scope of practice
- Some states mandate formal supervision or collaborative practice agreements that clearly outline the supervising physician's responsibilities
- Supervisors are responsible for periodically reviewing the prescriptive practices of the non-physician provider
- Non-physician providers must have their own DEA registration to prescribe controlled substances unless they are covered under an institutional registration
- Supervising physicians can be held liable for improper prescribing practices carried out by non-physician providers under their supervision
- If the DEA conducts an audit or investigation, the supervising physician may be asked to provide documentation that proves proper oversight and compliance
Special Practice Arrangements
1. Do mobile practitioners like home health providers need special DEA registrations?
Yes, mobile practitioners must adhere to specific DEA registration requirements. Here's what you need to know:
- Principal Place of Business:
- Every DEA registrant must have a registered principal place of business. This address is where controlled substances are received, stored, and managed. For mobile practitioners, this is usually their main office or headquarters, even if most of their services are delivered off-site.
- The DEA requires this location to meet security and record keeping standards. For instance, controlled substances must be securely stored in a locked cabinet within this primary location.
- Mobile Services Considerations:
- If you provide care in multiple locations (e.g., patients' homes), you don’t need separate DEA registrations for each site as long as you don't store controlled substances at those locations.
- However, if controlled substances are transported or administered during visits, you must keep thorough documentation for each transaction, including dosage, patient information, and transport logs.
- Documentation Requirements:
- Maintain detailed records of controlled substances received, dispensed, or transferred.
- Keep delivery logs, prescription copies, and patient consent forms.
- Regularly update security protocols to protect against loss or theft during transport.
2. What are the different business activity codes for DEA registrations?
Business activity codes classify the nature of a registrant’s controlled substance activities. Understanding these codes ensures you're registered for the correct activities.
- Common Activity Codes for Healthcare Providers:
- 621110 Offices of physicians
- 621300 Offices of other health practitioners 621400 Outpatient care centers
- 621500 Medical and diagnostic laboratories
- 621610 Home health care services
- 621910 Ambulance services
- 621990 All other ambulatory health care services
- 623000 Nursing and residential care facilities
Check out the DEA Business Activity and its connection to the DEA Data Waiver information.
- Selecting the Appropriate Code:
Choose a code that matches the nature of your practice. For example, if you're a physician, select the C Practitioner code. If you conduct research, opt for R Researcher.
- C Practitioner: For those authorized to prescribe, administer, or dispense controlled substances
- Mid-Level Practitioner: For nurse practitioners, physician assistants, or optometrists who can prescribe under state law
- R Researcher: For professionals conducting controlled substance research.
- Incorrect selection can lead to compliance issues or revocation
- Limitations Based on Code:
- Each code restricts the scope of activities. For instance, a mid-level practitioner may be limited in prescribing certain controlled substances based on state law.
Prescribing Authority Questions
1. Do I Need a DEA Number to Prescribe Antibiotics or Other Non-Controlled Medications?
No. A DEA number is only required to prescribe controlled substances (like opioids or stimulants).
Controlled medications are substances regulated by the DEA due to their potential for abuse or dependency.
Non-controlled medications (antibiotics, cholesterol drugs, or antihistamines) do not require a DEA number for prescribing.
Some common misconceptions include:
- Some providers mistakenly believe a DEA number is required for all prescriptions, but it’s only needed for controlled substances
- However, having a DEA number on file can simplify pharmacy processing, even for non-controlled prescriptions.
2. What are the different DEA schedules, and what medications can I prescribe?
Controlled substances are classified into five schedules based on their potential for abuse and accepted medical use.
- DEA Controlled Substance Schedules:
- Schedule I: High abuse potential, no accepted medical use (e.g., heroin, LSD). These cannot be prescribed
- Schedule II: High potential for abuse but accepted for medical use (e.g., oxycodone, fentanyl, Adderall)
- Schedule III: Moderate abuse potential (e.g., ketamine, anabolic steroids)
- Schedule IV: Low abuse potential (e.g., Xanax, Valium)
- Schedule V: Lowest abuse potential (e.g., cough preparations with less than 200mg of codeine)
- Prescriptive Limitations:
- Providers can only prescribe substances within the schedules they're authorized for, based on their DEA registration and state laws
- Some states further restrict prescribing rights for mid-level practitioners
Compliance and Legal Questions
1. What are the penalties for sharing or misusing a DEA number?
Misusing or sharing a DEA number is a serious offense that can result in administrative, civil, and criminal penalties.
- Administrative Penalties: Suspension or revocation of DEA registration
- Civil Penalties: Fines up to $25,000 per violation
- Criminal Penalties: Felony charges, imprisonment, and hefty fines
2. Can my DEA number be revoked, and what circumstances would lead to revocation?
Yes, the DEA can revoke a registration under specific conditions, such as:
- Conviction of a felony related to controlled substances
- Providing false information on registration applications
- Violating state or federal controlled substance regulations
- Fraud
- Drug diversion
- Failure to comply with recordkeeping regulations
- The Revocation Process:
- The DEA will issue an Order to Show Cause or an Immediate Suspension Order. These are administrative actions that will allow you to respond.
- You can request a hearing or submit a written defense.
NOTE: You have the right to legal representation and to appeal any final decision.
3. What record keeping requirements exist for DEA registrants?
Below are the requirements to keep in mind:
- All records must be thorough, precise, and reflect all controlled substance transactions
- Records should be maintained at the registered location associated with the DEA registration
- All records must be kept for a minimum of two years
- Records must be readily retrievable for inspection by authorized officials
- Separate records must be maintained for each DEA-registered activity conducted
- Distinct records are required for each registered location if operating multiple sites
- An initial inventory must be conducted when beginning controlled substance activities, followed by biennial inventories
- Exact counts are required for Schedule I and II substances, while estimates are acceptable for others unless containers hold more than 1,000 units
- Records of Schedule I and II substances must be stored separately from other records for easy access and review
4. How often does the DEA conduct audits of healthcare providers?
The DEA conducts audits about once every three years or randomly when red flags are raised (e.g., discrepancies in prescribing data).
Common triggers that cause these audits include:
- Unusual prescribing patterns
- Reports of misconduct
- Poor record keeping
You can prepare for an audit by keeping your records organized and regularly reviewing your prescribing practices for compliance.
Registration Maintenance Questions
1. What happens if my DEA registration expires while I'm still practicing?
If your DEA registration expires and you continue to prescribe controlled substances, you are in violation of federal law.
Here's what you need to know:
- Grace Period: The DEA provides a 30-day grace period if your registration lapses. After this has expired, you cannot legally prescribe, dispense, or handle controlled substances until it is renewed
- Consequences of Lapsed Registration:
- Immediate Suspension of Prescribing Rights: If you prescribe controlled substances after your DEA registration expires, you could face legal penalties, including fines and license suspension
- Patient Care Disruption: An expired registration could delay or interrupt patient treatments, especially for those relying on controlled medications
- Administrative Delays: Renewing an expired registration takes about 4 weeks
- Emergency Provisions: In rare emergencies (like a public health crisis), you may contact the DEA for temporary guidance, but these exceptions are rare and should not be relied upon
Pro Tip: To avoid a lapse, submit your renewal application at least 60 days before your current registration expires. The DEA typically sends renewal reminders, but it's ultimately your responsibility to ensure timely renewal.
2. How do I change the address on my DEA registration?
If you move your practice location, you must update your DEA registration to reflect the new address.
Here’s how:
- Log into the DEA Registration Portal: Use your DEA login credentials to access the portal
- Submit an Update: Navigate to the “Registration Changes” section and update your address details
- Provide Supporting Documentation: If requested, provide proof of the new business address, such as a lease agreement or utility bill
- Confirmation: Once submitted, the DEA will send a confirmation email, and your updated certificate will be processed
The DEA advises submitting address changes as soon as possible, preferably within 30 days of moving. If controlled substances are involved, notify local state regulatory agencies as well.
NOTE: Your business/practice address is where controlled substances are stored or prescribed. Your mailing address is where you receive correspondence. If these are different, both should be listed accurately.
3. What happens to my DEA number if I take a leave of absence from practice?
If you plan to take an extended leave (like maternity leave, sabbatical, or medical leave), consider these options:
- Maintain Your Registration:
- If you intend to return to practice within the registration period, you can maintain your DEA number by keeping it active. This means continuing to pay fees and complying with all requirements
- Pros: Quick reactivation, no additional application process upon return
- Cons: You'll still be responsible for registration fees and compliance, even during leave
- Surrender Your Registration:
- If you're unsure about returning or want to pause your registration, you can voluntarily surrender it by submitting a formal request to the DEA
- Pros: No ongoing fees
- Cons: Reapplication is required later, and you cannot prescribe controlled substances until your new registration is approved
- Reactivation Procedures:
- If you’ve maintained registration, simply notify the DEA upon returning to practice
- If you surrendered, reapplication is required. Processing times may vary, typically 4 to 6 weeks
- Cost Considerations:
- Maintaining your registration may cost more upfront, but it saves time and hassle later
- Reapplying after surrender means paying the full registration fee again and enduring processing delays
Telehealth and Modern Practice Questions
1. How do DEA requirements apply to telehealth prescriptions across state lines?
You must have a DEA registration for the state where the patient is physically located during the telehealth appointment, not just where you're located.
This means that if you're located in California but prescribing to a patient in Texas, you must have a DEA registration in both states. Some states require an additional controlled substance license, even with a valid DEA number.
Always confirm the patient's location before prescribing, as failing to comply with these regulations can result in license suspension or legal penalties.
2. How have DEA requirements changed for telehealth since the COVID-19 public health emergency ended?
Since the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency, the DEA has introduced updates to telehealth regulations regarding the prescription of controlled substances:
- Extension of Telemedicine Flexibilities: The DEA, in collaboration with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), has extended the pandemic-era telemedicine flexibilities through December 31, 2025. This means healthcare providers can continue prescribing controlled substances via telehealth without requiring an initial in-person medical evaluation
- Proposed Special Registration Rule: On January 16, 2025, the DEA announced a proposed rule to establish a special registration process. This would allow providers to prescribe Schedule III-V controlled substances via telemedicine without ever needing to conduct an in-person evaluation. The goal is to maintain patient access while ensuring compliance with federal regulations
- Framework for Online Telehealth Platforms: The proposed rule also introduces specific guidelines for registering online telehealth platforms. This includes precise recordkeeping requirements to ensure responsible prescribing practices and regulatory compliance
3. Are there special DEA requirements for electronic prescribing systems?
Yes, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has established specific requirements for electronic prescribing systems used to prescribe controlled substances.
Some of these requirements include:
- Software Compliance: Practitioners must utilize software applications that comply with DEA regulations to create and transmit electronic prescriptions for controlled substances
- Identity Verification: Prescribers are required to undergo identity proofing and use two-factor authentication to sign electronic prescriptions, ensuring the authenticity and integrity of each prescription
- Record Retention: Both practitioners and pharmacies must maintain electronic records of controlled substance prescriptions in compliance with DEA recordkeeping requirements
These measures are designed to enhance the security and accountability of prescribing controlled substances electronically.
Security and Technical Questions
1. What do the letters at the beginning of a DEA number mean?
The first letter of a DEA number indicates the type of registrant:
- A/B/F/G: Physicians, dentists, or hospitals
- M: Mid-level practitioners, like NPs or PAs
- X: Providers authorized to prescribe opioid treatment medications
The second letter is typically the first letter of the provider’s last name.
2. How can I tell if a DEA number is valid just by looking at it?
You can verify a DEA number using the following formula:
- Add the 1st, 3rd, and 5th digits
- Add the 2nd, 4th, and 6th digits and multiply the sum by 2
- Add the results of Step 1 and Step 2. The last digit of this total should match the last digit of the DEA number
Red Flags for Fraudulent Numbers:
- Incorrect starting letters
- Mismatched validation calculations
- An unfamiliar name or business location
3. What should I do if I suspect my DEA number has been compromised?
Report Immediately: Contact the DEA and your local regulatory board
Monitor for Misuse: Check recent prescriptions for unauthorized activity
Implement Protective Measures:
- Change electronic passwords
- Secure any physical prescription pads
- Notify pharmacies and relevant healthcare partners
4. How do I verify if a provider's DEA number is valid and current?
Use the DEA’s official registration database
5. How do I verify a DEA number without direct access to the DEA database?
You can verify through the following other routes:
- Confirm directly with the provider’s associated practice
- Contact local pharmacy boards for verification assistance
- Cross-check information with public licensing boards, where applicable
- Confirm with third-party verification services
Be cautious about privacy regulations and only share verification details with authorized parties
How Assured Can Help
Assured is an all-in-one platform designed to streamline and automate the administrative operations of healthcare organizations, focusing on credentialing, licensing, payor enrollment, and network management. Here's how Assured can assist your practice:
1. DEA and CSR Registration Management
Assured assists in obtaining and managing your DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) and CSR (Controlled Substance Registration) certifications, ensuring seamless compliance with federal and state regulations.
2. Automated Renewal and Monitoring
Assured's automated system tracks your DEA registration expiration dates and sends timely reminders for renewals. This proactive approach helps prevent registration lapses, ensuring continuous authorization to prescribe controlled substances.
3. Centralized Provider Data
All your important licensing documents, including DEA registrations, are securely stored in Assured's platform. This centralized repository allows for easy access and management of your credentials whenever needed.
4. Compliance Support During Leaves of Absence
Assured provides guidance on maintaining or surrendering your DEA registration if you plan to take an extended leave from practice. Upon your return, we will assist with reactivation procedures, ensuring a smooth transition back into practice.
5. Telehealth Prescribing Across State Lines
Assured helps you navigate the complexities of DEA requirements for telehealth prescriptions across state lines. We ensure you have the necessary registrations in each state where your patients are located, maintaining compliance with federal regulations.
Wrapping Up on 30+ FAQs on DEA Numbers: Expert Answers for Healthcare Providers in 2025
By staying up-to-date, ensuring accurate documentation, and following proper procedures, you can protect your practice and patients. For ongoing updates, consult official resources like the DEA website or professional associations specializing in healthcare law compliance.
