California Pharmacy Wholesaler Bond Overview
- Purpose: To guarantee payment of fines and enforcement costs
- Who Needs It: All pharmaceutical wholesalers doing business in California
- Regulating Body: The California State Board of Pharmacy
- Bond Amount: $25,000 or $100,000
- Minimum Price: $250 for the $25,000 bond; $1,000 for the $100,000 bond
What Is a California Pharmacy Wholesaler Bond?
A California pharmacy wholesaler bond ensures that the State Board of Pharmacy (Board) can recover unpaid administrative fines and enforcement costs if a wholesaler violates state law or regulations.
You must file this surety bond as financial security to apply for a California pharmacy wholesaler license.
Who Needs a Pharmacy Wholesaler Bond?
All pharmaceutical wholesalers in California must be licensed and bonded with the Board. This applies to both resident and nonresident entities.
Only the following types of wholesalers are exempt:
- Government-owned wholesalers
- Certain FDA-approved manufacturers that distribute only their own products
Bond Coverage Requirements for California Pharmacy Wholesalers
Your required California pharmacy wholesaler bond amount depends on your gross annual receipts value.
| Gross Annual Receipts | Bond Coverage |
|---|---|
| Up to $10 million | $25,000 bond |
| Over $10 million | $100,000 bond |
Alternatively, you can submit a letter of credit or a cash deposit. A surety bond is typically the most affordable option, requiring only a small upfront premium.
How Much Do Pharmacy Wholesaler Bonds Cost in California?
California pharmacy wholesaler bond prices start at $250 for $25,000 coverage or $1,000 for $100,000 coverage.
We’ll run a soft credit check to calculate your personalized rate. Select your bond below to apply for a free quote.
SuretyBonds.com offers the lowest available rates from our nationwide provider network with no added fees.
How Does a California Pharmacy Wholesaler Bond Work?
A California pharmacy wholesaler bond is a legal contract between three parties: the principal, the obligee and the surety.
| Bond Party | Description |
|---|---|
| Principal | The pharmacy wholesaler purchasing the bond |
| Obligee | The California State Board of Pharmacy requiring the bond |
| Surety | The issuing surety provider |
By filing this bond, you agree to comply with the California Pharmacy Law and pay any imposed fines.
If you commit any prohibited acts, harmed parties can file claims against your bond. The surety will pay valid claims up to the full bond amount, but you are ultimately responsible for refunding the surety.
How Do I Get a Pharmacy Wholesaler Bond in California?
With SuretyBonds.com, you can apply for a free quote online 24/7. Simply complete the form on this page. We’ll send you your personalized premium within one business day.
Once you pay the invoice, select your FedEx shipping option to receive your official bond form. We offer three-day to overnight shipping options.
Be sure to include the bond form when you submit your wholesaler license application.
Can I Get Bonded With Bad Credit?
Yes, you may still be able to get bonded with bad credit. However, poor credit will likely increase your premium rate.
Apply now to receive your free quote or visit our Surety Bond Cost FAQ page to see how credit may impact your cost.
How Do I Renew My Pharmacy Wholesaler Bond?
California pharmacy wholesaler bonds expire annually along with your license. We’ll send you reminders by phone and email starting 90 days before the expiration date. To renew, simply pay the attached invoice.
Can I Make Changes to My Bond?
Yes, you can typically make minor updates to your bond form by contacting your surety company. If you purchased your bond from us, email [email protected] with the needed change.
How to Get a Pharmacy Wholesaler in California
Both resident and nonresident pharmacy wholesalers must hold a license with the California State Board of Pharmacy.
Before applying, determine the wholesaler license type you need:
- An Emergency Medical Services Provider Agency
- A reverse distributor participating in the California Drug Take-Back Program
- A third-party logistics (3PL) provider at the same address or under common ownership with a 3PL
- A virtual manufacturer or FDA-registered manufacturer
Then, follow these steps to get your pharmacy wholesaler license:
- Register your business with the state.
- Purchase the required surety bond.
- Select a Designated Representative-in-Charge (DRIC) to fill out and submit the resident license application or nonresident application.
- Complete Live Scan fingerprinting.
Mail the application and all supporting documents to the Board:
California State Board of Pharmacy
2720 Gateway Oaks Drive, Suite 100
Sacramento, CA 95833
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Pharmacy Wholesaler License?
Both resident and nonresident applicants can expect to pay at least $1,299 to get a wholesaler license in California. This includes the following fees:
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | $1,000 |
| Fingerprint Card | $49 |
| Surety Bond | $250+ |
What Is the Temporary Wholesaler License?
A temporary wholesaler license allows you to start operating immediately while the Board reviews your application. Temporary licenses are valid for up to 180 days and cost $715.
