How Long Is Dea License Good For

What is a DEA License?

In order to prescribe controlled substances, a provider needs to accept an active drug enforcement agency (DEA) license. The DEA regulates both the prescribing and distribution of controlled medications such as narcotics and sedatives. To prescribe these medications, a DEA license is required for physicians, nurse practitioners, and md assistants alike.

This is separate from a state medical license or controlled substance permit. Upon approval of a DEA license, the provider is assigned a DEA number. The DEA number is typically provided on the prescription of a controlled substance medication. The pharmacist filling the medication will use this number to verify that the prescriber is authorized to lodge controlled medications.

The DEA license needs to exist renewed every three years and costs $888 per renewal (this has increased since 2020). Each time a locum tenens provider works in a different state, the DEA license needs to be updated to include the current practice site.

For instance, if a provider was previously working in Ohio but is now working in Colorado, they will exist unable to prescribe controlled substances in Colorado until they change their DEA license to Colorado. The good news is that at that place are no fees associated with changing your DEA license to a different state. The process oft takes 48 hours to update in an official capacity.

A DEA license may be confiscated if the prescriber is thought to be practicing negligently and/or due to malpractice. It may as well be suspended if your state medical license has been revoked or denied; or if you are convicted of a felony related to a controlled substance.

Some providers choose non to comport a DEA license because they practise not believe in prescribing opioids or sedative medications, and do not want the liability that comes with it. As a locum tenens provider, most sites desire you to carry an active DEA license.

Want to learn more nigh locum tenens with Barton Assembly? Fill out the grade and i of our representatives will reach out to you!

About Sophia Khawly

Sophia Khawly has been a locum tenens family nurse practitioner for over vii years. She has worked in 8 different states and nearly 20 different practices. This Miami native likes to travel in her spare time likewise, and has visited over 40 countries. Being a traveling nurse practitioner allows her to combine her beloved for helping others, learning, and traveling.