Can a California NP prescribe controlled substances?

A California NP can prescribe controlled substances. Yes—California nurse practitioners may furnish or order controlled substances (Schedules II–V) if they hold DEA registration and an active California furnishing number, and comply with applicable protocols and procedures¹².

To furnish controlled substances, NPs must follow approved standardized procedures/protocols that specify eligible drugs, circumstances, supervision, and periodic competence review; controlled substances are limited to those listed in the NP’s approved procedures². When furnishing Schedule II drugs, a patient-specific protocol authorized by the treating or supervising physician is required, and the NP must provide the standardized procedure to the pharmacist upon request².

NPs who prescribe must complete a pharmacology course, and those furnishing Schedule II must complete additional Schedule II coursework as part of continuing education². Physician supervision need not be in-person; it may include collaboration on procedures, approval of protocols, and telephonic availability, with the extent of supervision determined by the physician².