Help with DEA number

[miamidoc2b]

I have multiple state licenses and I am in the process of applying for a DEA number. The state that I will be starting working in initially requires a state equivalent of a DEA number and this state will not allow me to go ahead and apply for the DEA until I have the state DEA equivalent. Can I apply for the DEA using another state license which does not require a state DEA even though I don't plan on working there?

 

[periopdoc]

You can, although that DEA number will not be valid in the state in which you will be working unless you transfer it. You cannot use a single DEA number to work in two different states.

Question: What is DEA's policy concerning Locum Tenens?

Please be aware that practitioners who wish to administer, dispense, or prescribe controlled substances in multiple states have the following options regarding a DEA registration:

1. Practitioners will need to obtain a separate DEA registration in each state where they plan to administer, dispense, or prescribe controlled substances.
   
2. If the practitioners will be working solely in a hospital/clinic setting, they may use the hospital's DEA registration instead of registering independently with DEA if the hospital agrees and the situation warrants. 21 C.F.R. § 1301.22(c).
   
3. Alternately, under 21 C.F.R. § 1301.51, practitioners may transfer their existing DEA registration from one state to another as needed by contacting DEA's Registration and Program Support Section at 1-800-882-9539 or request the change online at www.DEAdiversion.usdoj.gov. DEA will investigate each modification of registration as if it was a new application. DEA will issue a new DEA certificate with the appropriate changes if DEA approves the modification.
   
4. DEA has provided a limited exception to this requirement in that practitioners who register at one location in a state, but practice at other locations within the same state, are not required to register with DEA at any other location in that state at which they only prescribe controlled substances. 21 CFR § 1301.12(b)(3).

Hope that helps.

- pod