Schedule II ordering
DEA Form 222 vs CSOS for Veterinary Schedule II Ordering
Schedule II ordering has its own paper-or-electronic order system. A veterinary practice stocking Schedule II drugs needs to know who may sign, how long forms are valid, and where the records live.
Verified · 2026-07-06When Form 222 or CSOS is required
A DEA Form 222 or its electronic equivalent is required for each distribution of a Schedule I or II controlled substance, unless a specific exception applies. 1
A registrant authorized to obtain DEA Form 222 may requisition order forms from DEA. 2
CSOS is the electronic ordering path for Schedule I and II substances, and electronic orders must meet the requirements in Part 1305 Subpart C. 3
Who may sign
A purchaser must prepare and execute a DEA Form 222 by typewriter, computer printer, pen, or indelible pencil. 4
The order may be signed by the registrant, an authorized partner or officer, or a person granted power of attorney under 21 CFR 1305.05. 4 5
A registrant may authorize one or more individuals to issue Schedule II orders by executing a power of attorney for each person and retaining it in the files. 5
Records to keep
A purchaser must retain a copy of each executed DEA Form 222 and all copies of unaccepted or defective forms with statements attached. 6
Form 222 records must be kept separately from all other records and at the registered location printed on the form. 6
A Form 222 is not valid more than 60 days after execution by the purchaser. 7
Sources
Verified against primary sources on 2026-07-06. Each entry shows its own check date.
- DEA / 21 CFR — 21 CFR 1305.03 — Distributions requiring a Form 222 or a digitally signed electronic order. www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/section-1305.03 checked 2026-07-06
- DEA / 21 CFR — 21 CFR 1305.11(b), (d) — Procedure for obtaining DEA Forms 222. www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/section-1305.11 checked 2026-07-06
- DEA / 21 CFR — 21 CFR 1305.21(a)-(c) — Requirements for electronic orders (CSOS). www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/section-1305.21 checked 2026-07-06
- DEA / 21 CFR — 21 CFR 1305.12(a)-(d) — Procedure for executing DEA Forms 222. www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/section-1305.12 checked 2026-07-06
- DEA / 21 CFR — 21 CFR 1305.05(a)-(e) — Power of attorney. www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/section-1305.05 checked 2026-07-06
- DEA / 21 CFR — 21 CFR 1305.17(a), (c) — Preservation of DEA Forms 222. www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/section-1305.17 checked 2026-07-06
- DEA / 21 CFR — 21 CFR 1305.13(a), (b), (d), (e) — Procedure for filling DEA Forms 222. www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/section-1305.13 checked 2026-07-06