DEA Form 224a is used for which purpose?

• A. It is used to apply for a DEA registration number
• B. It is used to schedule drug audits
• C. It is used to report loss or theft
• D. It is used to renew a DEA registration; must be renewed every three years

Answer: (D)

DEA Form 224a is used to renew an existing DEA registration. A registration with the DEA is required for anyone who prescribes, administers, or dispenses controlled substances, and the renewal keeps that authority active when the current registration expires. The form for applying for a new registration is different, so this one specifically handles renewals. Registrations are renewed every three years, not annually, which is why the statement about a three-year renewal cycle is the correct description. It isn’t used to schedule audits or to report loss or theft, which involve separate processes.