A pharmacy chain with multiple locations must obtain what for each individual pharmacy?

In the context of a pharmacy chain operating in multiple locations, each individual pharmacy must obtain a DEA number. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) number is essential for pharmacies that handle controlled substances. This number is unique to each pharmacy and is used for the distribution, prescribing, and dispensing of controlled substances as regulated by federal law.

The requirement for a DEA number ensures compliance with federal regulations governing controlled substances, which include both prescription medications and narcotics. Without this number, a pharmacy cannot legally manage or dispense these types of medications, making it critical for operational compliance.

While state licenses are crucial and indeed required by each pharmacy, the question specifically focuses on a unique identifier necessary for federal compliance regarding controlled substances, which is addressed by the DEA number. Other options like a federal tax ID and insurance policies, while important for aspects of pharmacy operation, do not hold the same regulatory significance specifically tied to handling controlled substances as a DEA number does.