Which of the following is NOT a licensure requirement for dispensing controlled substances?

Dispensing controlled substances requires adherence to specific regulatory frameworks at both state and federal levels. One of the primary licensing requirements is having a DEA number, which permits practitioners to legally prescribe and dispense controlled substances. Additionally, a valid state license is essential for the practice of pharmacy or medicine within a given jurisdiction, ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations.

The concept of a federal agency exemption might pertain to certain specific regulations or operational allowances for agencies, but it does not function as a general requirement for any practitioner dispensing controlled substances.

In contrast, national certification, while it may enhance a practitioner's qualifications and indicate a level of competency, is not a mandatory prerequisite for dispensing controlled substances. Thus, it is not considered a licensure requirement. Many pharmacists and healthcare providers may choose to pursue national certifications to improve their credentials and marketability, but those certifications do not replace the fundamental legal requirements of possessing a DEA number and a valid state license. As a result, national certification is not an essential criterion for dispensing controlled substances.