How many components make up a valid DEA number?

A valid DEA number consists of two letters followed by seven digits, making it essential for the identification and classification of practitioners authorized to prescribe controlled substances. The first letter indicates the type of registrant (e.g., whether it is a practitioner, a pharmacy, or a hospital), while the second letter typically represents the first letter of the registrant's last name. The seven digits are unique to that registrant and include a specific algorithm to verify their accuracy.

The structure of a DEA number is critical for ensuring that only authorized individuals can handle controlled substances, which is fundamental in maintaining safety and legal compliance in prescription practices. Understanding this structure is also important in preventing drug diversion and misuse, as the DEA number serves as an essential tool for tracking prescriptions and behaviors in the pharmacy environment.