DEA question

Published

So as I'm looking for a new position, I've noticed that some job postings are requiring a DEA license. I have one at my current job that the office manager took care of when I first became an NP.

Will this number stay the same throughout my career?

I am planning on taking a new position, so will I end up needing a whole new license?

In looking at the certificate the DEA sent a couple years ago, I see that it has my current practices name on it and an expiration date of next year. So if I wasn't planning on leaving I would just renew correct?

This was my first NP job- I am confused on this whole process and am wondering if anyone can explain this to me, and what exactly job postings are referring to when they want you to have the license? just a DEA number itself? Don't you need to know where you are working first to get the actual license part?

Thanks!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

Your DEA license is assigned to you based on your practice location/type of practice. When you change jobs, you will need to go to the DEA website and update the employer information. Current cost is approx $731 so get your practice to provide this for you.

Best wishes on your new position.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Adult Internal Medicine.

Are you sure they aren't just requiring that an individual be eligible to obtain DEA licensure? That's how most are posted around here...

Sent from my iPhone.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

DEA # is issued to you specifically, so it 'belongs' to you whether you stay or go as long as you pay to keep it renewed. But like a previous poster said, if your practice location changes you will have to update them. Also, DEA is state specific so you will need one for each state you plan to practice in (not sure if this is an issue for you, but if you live on a border it might be good to know). Many employers will assist with the initial registration/ pay the fee based on your contract terms, but it definitely is yours once it is issued. The employers who are asking you to have it in hand probably either don't want to have to pay for it or wait on you to get it for practice. It is worth asking potential employers who request this if 'DEA eligible' would keep you as a viable candidate.

Good luck,

Cardiac

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion