DEA Proposed Rule of DEA 222 Forms

The proposed new format for DEA Form 222 will employ a single-sheet
form. In executing a transaction of a schedule I and/or II controlled substance, a DEA registrant will process the new single-sheet form in a similar manner to the processing of the current three-part form. The change in processing will be that the single-sheet form will have to be copied rather than having the copies pre-printed. DEA will continue to preprint and issue the original form.

The new form is being initiated to improve security and to allow better ease in handling. The new form will have enhanced security features over the current three-part form. DEA will preprint the new form on sturdier paper with a special embedded watermark of the DEA emblem making it more difficult to copy for counterfeit purposes. If photocopied, the photocopy
of the new form will display the DEA emblem and the statement ‘‘Copy’’ to hinder counterfeiting. It is anticipated that the new form will be more convenient for DEA registrants to utilize. The old three-part form format was created more than thirty years ago and the processing of a transaction with carbon copies is an outdated concept. Today, new office
technology exists such as laser printers and photocopiers which will allow DEA registrants greater ease in utilizing the single-sheet form.

The single-sheet form will be beneficial for DEA as well. The equipment used to print the interleaved carbon forms is old, and finding replacement parts and otherwise maintaining the equipment is costly, difficult, and time-consuming. Please read full part of Federal Register.