Which of the following is a requirement for a pharmacy to operate?

For a pharmacy to operate legally, obtaining a state pharmacy license is a fundamental requirement. Each state has its own board of pharmacy that establishes the regulations and requirements for licensure. This license is crucial because it signifies that the pharmacy meets the state’s standards for operation, including compliance with safety regulations, pharmacy practice laws, and professional standards.

A national certification, while beneficial for individual pharmacists and displaying their competence, is not a prerequisite for a pharmacy's operational license. Similarly, an FDA approval license pertains to complying with federal regulations regarding drug safety and efficacy but does not directly grant a pharmacy the right to operate. A DEA waiver is involved in the handling and distribution of controlled substances but is also not sufficient alone to establish a pharmacy's legitimacy to practice. Therefore, the requirement for a pharmacy to operate distinctly emphasizes the necessity of a state pharmacy license.