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Drug Distributor Accreditation

NABP’s Drug Distributor Accreditation plays a role in preventing counterfeit drugs and devices from entering the United States medical supply.

The US supply of prescription drugs and prescription devices is produced and delivered to patients via a complex distribution path, and this accreditation verifies that accredited facilities operate legitimately, are licensed in good standing in the United States, with current and active licenses, in all jurisdictions in which it is conducting business, and practice secure storing, handling, and shipping prescription drugs and devices.

NABP’s Drug Distributor Accreditation is a 3-year accreditation for participants in the medical supply chain that store, handle, and ship prescription drugs and devices.

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State-Specific Requirement

The state boards of pharmacy, or other state agencies, play an important role in regulating the medical supply chain. State laws and regulations, often developed by the boards, help protect the public from receiving medications and devices that can lead to patient harm. In some states, it may be necessary to possess NABP accreditation to obtain a license. For further information on state-specific licensing requirements, inquire with each of the states in which your facility conducts business.

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Practices that demonstrate compliance in preventing counterfeit drugs and devices from entering the United States medical supply can earn this voluntary accreditation and better position their business to patients. Complete the form to request more information.

Drug Distributor Eligibility

To apply for an NABP accreditation, you must meet and maintain basic eligibility requirements. Review the eligibility requirements listed below.

  • Review and self-assess your eligibility.
  • You are compliant with the program criteria and requirements at the time you apply for accreditation, throughout the application process and accreditation period.
  • You are a licensed drug distributor operating in the United States, with current and active licenses, in all jurisdictions in which you are conducting business.
  • You are operational in all activities for at least 30 days and compliant with all state regulations, laws, and rules (eg, federal, state, local, and jurisdictional requirements) applicable to the business.
  • You complete our prerequisite Supply Chain inspection within the past 12 months and received a Drug Distributor Accreditation eligibility letter.

Criteria

Click on the links below to learn about each criterion:

Information for Nontraditional Business Models 

Some business models not designated as “wholesale distributors” may have unique requirements. These business models include:

  • Outsourcing Facilities, 
  • Wholesale Distributors Co-located With Pharmacies, 
  • Third-Party Logistics Providers (3PLs), 
  • Reverse Distributors, 
  • Virtual Distributors, and 
  • Virtual Manufacturers.

Information on the unique requirements for Nontraditional Business Models, such as Virtual Manufacturers and Wholesale Distributors, can be found in the program criteria.

Learn How to Get StartedReview the steps you’ll need to take before submitting your application.