Vlad Dzhashi, MD
Before you hit the road to get to your new locum tenens gig or before moving to a new state for a permanent job, you definitely want to transfer your DEA license to another state.
Although the DEA transfer process is straightforward and you can complete it online, I recommend you to read on to avoid mistakes.
First thing to remeber is that to link your DEA registration to a different state, you need to get an unrestricted or locum tenens license in that state. You won’t be able to do it if you have a trainee (resident’s) license.
Second thing to remember that for some states you need to have a state specific Controlled Substance License (also called registration).
Here’s a step by step process to transfer your DEA license to another state.
How do I transfer my DEA license to another state?
There are several ways to transfer a DEA license to another state: online using the CSA portal, by calling the DEA Diversion Control Division at 1-800-882-9539 or your Local Diversion Field Office. You can also email your request to [email protected].
Let’s look at the step by step process of transfering your DEA registration online as it’s the most convenient way to do it.
1 - Go to the CSA Registration Portal
2 - Enter your DEA license number
On the first page you enter the DEA number that you want to transfer.
3 - Enter other pertinent info for your current DEA registration
Here, you’ll need to type in your last name, your current DEA license zip code, expiration date and your social security number.
You can find zip code, expiration month and year from your DEA certificate.
4 - Validate your date of birth
Enter your date of birth to validate it.
5 - Click on “State Licenses” on the status screen
Next you’ll see a crowded status page with complete information of your current DEA registration.
To change it to another state, you need click on “Edit” of the “State Licenses” section.
6 - Change your state license information
On the new page, you’ll need enter your information for a different state license you’re looking to transfer to. The info includes the license number and expiration date. Once you’re done, click on “Update” button.
7 - Change your business address:
Now, go back to the main license page and click on “edit” button for the “Personal Information” section.
Here, you need to type in an address to reflect your new practice location in a new state and move to the next page.
8 - Update confirmation:
Click on “Update” to confirm the changes.
You’re all done! You’ll see a confirmation page at the end.
Note that you can check the status of the transfer by logging back into the portal.
When you receive an email confirming that the your application was approved, your DEA transfer will be official. You will be set to hit the road to your new state!
Is a DEA license state-specific?
Yes, the DEA license is linked to the state of your choosing (as long as you have an active and underestricted medical license in that state) and it cannot be “attached” to more than one state. However, you can transfer it from one state to another using the process I covered here.
How long does it take to transfer a DEA license?
Once the request to transfer has been submitted to the DEA, it can take anywhere from 2 days to a few weeks for the transfer to be approved.
Is there anything you can do to speed up the DEA transfer?
No, but the good news is that the transfer is usually done within a few days. Once it’s completed, you’ll be able to print off a copy of the transferred DEA license.
How do I change my address on my DEA license?
Login to the CSA Registration Tools. Here, you can make the changes to the address on your DEA license using steps I described above.
How do I change my name on my DEA license?
You’ll need to login to the CSA Registration portal and select the option to make changes, where you can update your name. Be prepared with the documentation that shows your new name such as your updated medical license, government-issued ID, marriage license, and/or SSN card.
Alternatives to transferring your DEA license to another state
The alternative way to transfer your DEA license is to call the DEA Diversion Control Division at 1-800-882-9539 or call your Local Diversion Field Office.
You can also email your request to [email protected]
How to transfer a DEA license: Key takeaways
Getting all your ducks in the row to transfer to a new state may seem overwhelming. Luckily, the process to transfer a DEA license is fairly easy and I hope you found this information useful.
Vlad, hey! Funny I found you randomly while I was searching how to change my DEA here in Saipan. Great tips btw. Haven’t started working yet, but the island is great.
It’s so cool you found my website;-) Stay in touch and keep me posted
on your experience in Saipan.