Chemical Registration Process

GENERAL INFORMATION

Information concerning the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Chemical registration process can be obtained from a local DEA office or by contacting DEA Headquarters (202) 307- 4025. If the call is made during non-business hours, select option 3 from the voice tree and follow the prompts.

NEW APPLICATION PROCESS

The DEA Form 510 may be completed online (recommended) or an application for registration may be obtained by downloading and completing the PDF version of the form. The downloaded form should be sent to the following address:

DEA Headquarters
ATTN: Registration Section/ODR
P.O. Box 2639
Springfield, VA 22152-2639

The processing and issuing of a DEA registration usually takes approximately eight to ten weeks, providing the application is complete and accurate. To ensure that your application is processed expeditiously, make sure of the following before mailing the application to DEA:

1. Complete the application in its entirety;
2. Sign and date the application;
3. Enclose the fee for the appropriate amount;
4. Mail back to DEA at the above address.

Once an application is received by DEA, the following process is utilized:

1. The information provided is entered into DEA’s computer system;
2. The application information is forwarded to the local DEA office with jurisdiction over the area in which you are located;
3. The local DEA office verifies that the information provided is accurate;
4. An on-site visit is conducted;
5. If all information is accurate and there is no impediment to the registration, and the registration is in the public interest.
6. The local DEA office forwards the application and a recommendation to DEA Headquarters for final approval. The approval is entered into the computer system, a DEA Registration number is assigned and a certificate of registration is printed and mailed to the registrant.

RENEWAL APPLICATION PROCESS

Renewal applications are mailed automatically to the registered location 45 days prior to the expiration date. 

Note: Please make sure any changes of address are provided to DEA so that the renewal is sent to the correct address. The applications cannot be forwarded. The change of address can be provided in writing or by contacting DEA Headquarters at the telephone number listed above. 

To ensure that your application is processed expeditiously, make sure of the following before mailing the application to DEA:

1. Verify that all information is correct on the application and make changes as necessary;
2. Sign and date the application;
3. Enclose the fee for the appropriate amount;
4. Be sure to use the envelope provided with the application as the renewal could be delayed.

Once an application is received by DEA, the following process is utilized:

1. The information provided is entered into DEA’s computer system;
2. Any modification to the registration may require an on-site visit before the modification is approved.
3. If all information is accurate and there is no impediment to the registration, a new certificate of registration with the new expiration date is printed and mailed to the registered address.

DUPLICATE CERTIFICATES

Should a registration certificate become lost or destroyed, a duplicate certificate can be provided to you at no cost. You may request the certificate online or by contacting DEA Headquarters at the telephone number listed above. The duplicate certificate should be received within eight working days.