Wholesale Drug Distributors in Tennessee

Wholesale drug distributors operating in Tennessee must obtain licensure from the Tennessee Board of Pharmacy before engaging in the sale or distribution of prescription drugs or devices. This requirement applies to both resident facilities and out-of-state distributors shipping into Tennessee, with no exemption for interstate commerce. The Board enforces compliance through facility inspections, controlled substance reporting requirements, and criminal background checks for facility managers.

The Tennessee Board of Pharmacy (TN BOP) regulates wholesale drug distributors under authority granted by TCA Title 63, Chapter 10 (Practice of Pharmacy). The Board operates within the Tennessee Department of Health, Division of Health-Related Boards. Specific licensing authority for manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, and third-party logistics providers (3PLs) is established under TCA Section 63-10-306 and TCA Section 63-10-310 (effective July 1, 2025). Operational requirements are codified in Rules of the Tennessee Board of Pharmacy, Chapter 1140-09.

Every manufacturer, outsourcing facility, or wholesaler/distributor must obtain Board licensure before engaging in the manufacture, sale, or distribution of prescription drugs or devices in Tennessee.

1. Submit application: Online at tn.gov/health/health-program-areas/health-professional-boards/pharmacy-board/pharmacy-board/applications.html or by mail to Tennessee Board of Pharmacy, 665 Mainstream Drive, Nashville, TN 37243

2. Pay fees: Credit card, debit card, or eCheck (online); check or money order payable to Tennessee Board of Pharmacy (mail)