Pennsylvania Prescription Drug Bond Guide
In Pennsylvania, all prescription drug wholesalers, distributors and virtual manufacturers must file a surety bond to operate.
Bond Overview
- Purpose: To ensure wholesalers and distributors properly handle prescription drugs
- Who Needs It: Required for all prescription drug wholesalers in Pennsylvania
- Regulating Body: The Pennsylvania Department of Health
- Required Amount: $25,000 or $100,000
- Premium Rate: Credit-based, starting at 1%
Keep scrolling to learn more about the bonding process.
What Is a Pennsylvania Prescription Drug Wholesaler Bond?
This type of surety bond protects the public and pharmacies from harm if pharmaceutical wholesalers, distributors or virtual manufacturers break license regulations.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) requires this bond for licensing under the Pennsylvania Wholesale Prescription Drug Distributors License Act No. 101 of 2024.
How Much Bond Coverage Do I Need?
Most prescription drug wholesalers need to file a $100,000 surety bond. However, if your annual gross receipts for the previous tax year are less than $10,000,000, you can request to lower the bond amount to $25,000.
To lower your bond amount, you must submit your tax records from the previous year or a review of your sales by a Certified Public Accountant.
How Much Do Pharmacy Wholesaler Bonds Cost in Pennsylvania?
PA prescription drug wholesaler and distributor bond premiums typically cost 1–2% of the bond amount, based on credit score.
For example, with excellent credit, you could pay just $1,000 for $100,000 in coverage.
Select your amount below to get your free personalized quote.
SuretyBonds.com offers the lowest available rates from our nationwide provider network with no added fees.
How Does a Pennsylvania Prescription Drug Wholesaler Bond Work?
A Pennsylvania prescription drug wholesaler bond is a legal contract between three parties:
- Principal: The wholesaler, distributor or virtual manufacturer purchasing the bond
- Obligee: The Pennsylvania Department of Health requiring the bond
- Surety: The provider issuing the bond
Under this contract, you, as the principal, promise to uphold all regulations under the Wholesale Prescription Drug Distributors License Act.
If you break these terms, harmed parties can file claims on the bond. The surety will validate and pay claims up to the full bond amount. However, you are ultimately responsible for refunding the surety.
Who Needs a Prescription Drug Wholesaler Bond?
In Pennsylvania, anyone who engages in the wholesale distribution of prescription drugs must file a surety bond. This includes wholesaler distributors and virtual drug or device manufacturers.
In-state virtual manufacturers need a bond if they hold FDA product label codes, even though they don’t physically handle products.
You only need to file one bond, even if you own multiple facilities.
How Do I Get a Pharmacy Wholesaler Bond in Pennsylvania?
SuretyBonds.com provides the fastest and easiest way to get a prescription drug wholesaler bond. Just follow these simple steps:
- Apply Online: Select your bond amount and enter your information for a personalized quote.
- Pay Invoice: Complete your purchase online or over the phone.
- Receive Bond: Receive your official bond form via email.
Upon receipt, sign and file the bond documentation with the DOH.
How Fast Can I Get My Bond?
SuretyBonds.com issues pharmacy bonds faster than any other provider. We process most bond applications same-day. Apply now to receive your free quote.
Can I Get Bonded With Bad Credit?
Yes, you may still be able to get bonded with bad credit. However, poor credit will typically increase your premium rate.
Apply for a free quote or visit our Surety Bond Cost FAQ page to see how credit may impact your cost.
How Do I Renew My Bond?
Pennsylvania prescription drug wholesaler, distributor or virtual manufacturer bonds expire annually. We’ll send you reminders and a renewal invoice before your bond expires.
To renew your bond, just pay the premium — we’ll do the rest!
Note: You must maintain an active bond policy for one year after your license expires or is deemed inactive.
How to Become a Prescription Drug Wholesaler in Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Department of Health regulates all prescription drug wholesalers, including distributors and virtual manufacturers, in the state. Depending on your license type, you may need both a registration and a license.
All corporations must submit proof of business registration filed with the Pennsylvania Department of State.
The DOH issues most registrations and licenses within 15 business days. Mail your completed application to the address below:
Pennsylvania Department of Health
Drug & Device Registration Section
2525 North 7th Street
Suite 210D
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17110
Wholesalers and Wholesale Distributor Licensing
All pharmaceutical wholesalers and distributors must complete the application for DOH registration and/or licensure.
Wholesale human prescription drug distributors need both a distributor registration and a wholesale distributor license.
Virtual Manufacturer Licensing
The DOH requires licensure for any in-state virtual medical device or pharmaceutical manufacturers holding FDA product label codes.
Complete the virtual manufacturer application. Mail all documents to the DOH, including payment for the $10 fee.
How Do I Renew My License?
The DOH will mail you a renewal notice four weeks before the expiration date. Complete and mail the renewal form to the DOH.
Any changes to ownership or registration type require a new application.
