Can an NP prescribe Tramadol in California?

Yes — California nurse practitioners may prescribe tramadol, a Schedule IV opioid, when they have controlled-substance furnishing authority, DEA registration, and comply with the applicable California practice pathway.¹²

For NPs using standardized procedures, California controlled-substance furnishing authority may include Schedule II–V drugs only when the drug is authorized and specified in the standardized procedure.¹ An NP authorized to furnish controlled substances must also register with the DEA.²

Qualifying California NPs practicing under Sections 2837.103 or 2837.104 may prescribe controlled substances without standardized procedures when that statutory pathway applies.³ Schedule II–IV prescribing also generally requires CURES review before the first prescription and periodically if continued, unless an exemption applies.⁴ NPs must also practice within their education, training, competence, and scope.

This answer does not address separate opioid-specific, pain-management, telehealth, payer, or facility policy requirements.