Board Information

Due to the evolving COVID-19 situation in Montana, all Montana Department of Labor & Industry offices are closed to the public to protect the health and safety of our clients and staff.  Our services are available through remote delivery. We are available to assist customers through our online public portal at EBIZ.MT.GOV/POL (Professional and Occupational Licenses) and EBIZ.MT.GOV (for Permits). For other services, please contact us via email at DLIBSDWEBHELP@MT.GOV or by phone (406) 841-2300.
 

Click here for information regarding the COVID-19 Emergency Healthcare Registration

Prescribing and Dispensing Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine During the COVID-19 Pandemic

 

COVID-19 Information for Pharmacy

Pharmacist Immunization Authority 

Pharmacist Collaborative Practice Authority

Emergency Prescription Refills

Off-Site/Remote Pharmacy Work Information

  • Board of Pharmacy regulations do not address the location from which an in-state pharmacist may perform his or her duties. Please reference ARM 24.174.823 regarding centralized prescription filling and processing of drug orders as it may apply to your situation.  If off-site work does occur, facility policies and procedures should address this practice.  Also, please reference ARM 24.174.301 (43) and ARM 24.174.818 Security for guidance on security of your software system.
  • Regarding technicians, as described in ARM 24.174.705 Tasks and Functions of a Pharmacy Technician, their functions are limited to the provisions of an approved utilization plan.  Any assigned tasks or functions (including practice location) that deviate from your approved utilization plan must be addressed in a newly submitted plan, or addendum to your current plan. See ARM 24.174.712 for information on modifying an existing plan.
    • Please email any updates to the Board at dlibsdpha@mt.gov for priority review. 
  • As an additional resources, see ARM 24.174.1112 regarding remote medication order processing services for hospitals. 

Pharmacy Resources 

General COVID-19 Resources

October-November Renewals for Facility Licensees

  • Renewal forms are available for facilities renewing October-November 2020 under the "Forms" tab
  • The online renewal process will be available through eBiz at:  https://ebiz.mt.gov/pol/Default.aspx
  • For changes to Pharmacist/Person-In-Charge, submit the PIC change form 
     

MPDR Updates

MPDR Registration, Record ID, and Fees

  • Contact Customer Service as 406-444-6880 to obtain the Record ID number needed for registering with the Montana Prescription Drug Registry (MPDR) and for assistance with completing registration.
  • Effective October 1, 2019, all Montana licensees authorized to prescribe or dispense prescription drugs are required to register with the MPDR at the time of initial licensure or renewal.  In addition, the same licensees are required to pay the $30 MPDR fee at license renewal.
  • Effective July 1, 2021, see Section 3 of House Bill 86 for the MPDR mandatory use requirement for prescribers of opioids or benzodiazepines.  This provision is implemented in statute at 37-7-1515, MCA.
     

Other Updates

Pharmacy Positive Identification Requirement for Controlled Substances and New Rule

  • Effective October 1, 2019, Section 1 of House Bill 86, enacted by the 2019 Montana Legislature, requires positive identification at the pharmacy to dispense a controlled substance prescription except in certain circumstances.  The authorized identifications listed in statute include:  valid driver’s license, a school district or postsecondary education photo identification, a tribal photo identification, or other identification allowed by the Board of Pharmacy by rule.  See 37-7-410, MCA. 
  • Effective January 18, 2020, the Board of Pharmacy adopted a new rule expanding the types of photo identifications allowable for dispensing controlled substances.  New rule ARM 24.174.842, allows for a valid government-issued photo identification, including but not limited to passport, military, or state-issued identification. 
  • Refer to the statute for all requirements, including documentation and provisions for when identification is not required, at 37-7-410, MCA.
  • Refer to the proposed and final rule for MAR Notice No. 24-174-73 on the Rules Notice webpage for new rule information. 

Prescriber Restrictions for Opioid-Naïve Patients

  • Effective October 1, 2019, Section 2 of House Bill 86, enacted by the 2019 Montana Legislature, restricts the prescribing of opioids to opioid-naïve patients to a 7-day supply except in certain circumstances.  The new law states:  “…when a medical practitioner or a naturopathic physician prescribes an opioid to an opioid-naïve patient on an outpatient basis, the prescription may not be for more than a 7-day supply.”  This provision is implemented in statute at 37-2-101 and 37-2-108, MCA, within the General Provisions Related to Health Care Practitioners, and terminates June 30, 2025. 
    • As identified in 37-2-108(2)(a) and (b), MCA, the restriction does not apply if:
      • “(2)(a) in the professional medical judgment of the medical practitioner or naturopathic physician, a prescription for more than a 7-day supply is necessary to treat chronic pain, pain associated with cancer, or pain experienced while the patient is in palliative care; or
      • (2)(b) the opioid being prescribed is designed for the treatment of opioid abuse or dependence, including but not limited to opioid agonists and opioid antagonists.”
    • An opioid-naïve patient is defined in 37-2-101(10), MCA:  “…means a patient who has not been prescribed a drug containing an opioid in the 90 days prior to the acute event or surgery for which an opioid is prescribed.”
    • Pharmacists are responsible for performing corresponding responsibility, as required by DEA in 21 CFR 1306.04, and practice of pharmacy requirements pursuant to 37-7-101(38), MCA.

Wholesale Drug Distributors:  Opioid Seller's License with Department of Revenue

Naloxone 

Montana Medicaid Pharmacy Information from Mountain Pacific Quality Health

  • Access Mountain Pacific's DUR Program Newsletter and sign up to receive the newsletter electronically at:  https://www.mpqhf.org/corporate/montanans-with-medicaid/pharmacy/
  • The DUR Program Newsletter provides information and updates on:  Montana Medicaid Drug Prior Authorization; Preferred Drug List (PDL); Montana Medicaid Drug Utilization Review; and other activities. 
     

Welcome to the Montana Board of Pharmacy

The Board of Pharmacy makes every effort to include on this web site all relevant information pertaining to the licensing and regulation of the following license types: 

  • Individuals:  Pharmacists, Certified Pharmacy Technicians, Pharmacy Technicians-in-Training, Interns, and Dangerous Drug Researchers. 
     
  • Facilities:  Community Pharmacies, Hospital/Institutional Pharmacies, Out-Of-State Mail-Order Pharmacies, Limited Service Pharmacies/Class IV Facilities, Outpatient Surgical Centers, and Wholesale Drug Distributors.

Contact Information

Thank you for your interest in contacting the Montana Board of Pharmacy.

 

If you are already licensed, have applied for a license, are about to apply for a license, or are renewing your license from the Board of Pharmacy:

Professional Licensing Customer Service:
(406) 444-6880
DLIBSDHELP@MT.GOV

 

If you have scope of practice questions or comments for the Board of Pharmacy:

Marcie Bough, PharmD, Executive Officer
(406) 841-2371
DLIBSDPHA@MT.GOV

 

If you have questions about inspections or practice issues:

John Douglas, RPh, Board Inspector
Phone: (406) 431-1952 (cell)
Email: DLIBSDPHA@MT.GOV

 

Mark Klawitter, RPh, Board Inspector
Phone: (406) 459-8847
Email: DLIBSDPHA@MT.GOV

 

If you have questions about the Montana Prescription Drug Registry (MPDR), obtaining your Record ID for registration, or other issues:

Customer Service  
Phone: (406) 444-6880
Email: DLIBSDMPDR@MT.GOV


If you have questions about the Montana Professional Assistance Program (MPAP)

Phone: (406) 245-4300 or (800) 697-9349
Email: MPAP@MTPHP.NET

 

If you have questions about continuing education:

(406) 444-5696
AUDIT@MT.GOV

 

If you have questions about filing a complaint against a licensee:

(406) 841-2357
DLIBSDCOMPLAINTS@MT.GOV


Mailing Address:

Board of Pharmacy

PO Box 200513

Helena, MT 59620-0513

 

Physical Address:

Board of Pharmacy

301 S. Park Avenue

4th Floor

Helena, MT 59620

Board Events

Board meetings are usually held several times a year.

In general, Board meetings are open to the public.

There are certain meetings or parts (Screening Panel and Executive Session), which are closed to the public.

Scheduled and Proposed Meetings

Board Members

Board members are appointed by the Governor with Senate confirmation.
Members serve 5 year terms and may not serve more than 2 consecutive terms.

Individual Board Members can be contacted by email at dlibsdpha@mt.gov. In your message please specify which board member you would like to contact. For additional contact information and information on board member terms, please visit the Governor’s Office link for Board Members and Councils at http://boards.mt.gov/.

Tony King – President, Pharmacist
Starla Blank – Vice President, Pharmacist 
Marian Jensen – Secretary, Public Member
Courtney Bahny, Certified Pharmacy Technician 
Mike Bertagnolli, Pharmacist
Paul Brand, Pharmacist
Charmell Owens, Public Member

HIPAA Info.

Cancer Drug Respository Log

Newsletter Information

NABP Montana Newsletter Home Page

To receive the Montana Newsletters electronically, please subscribe to the Montana Board of Pharmacy Newsletter Alert email list by sending an email to MontanaBoPNewsletter@nabp.net with the word “Subscribe” in the subject heading.


The Montana Board of Pharmacy News is published by the Montana Board of Pharmacy and the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy Foundation, Inc, to promote compliance of pharmacy and drug law. The opinions and views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the official views, opinions, or policies of the Foundation or the Board unless expressly so stated.

Governor's Report

License Information

The Board licenses and regulates the following individual license types in Montana: Pharmacist, Pharmacy Technician, Pharmacy Technician-in-Training, Pharmacist Intern, and Dangerous Drug Researcher. 


The Board licenses and regulates the following facility license types in Montana: Certified Community Pharmacy, Certified Institutional Pharmacy, Out-of-State Mail-Order Pharmacy, Wholesale Drug Distributor, Limited Service Pharmacy (Class IV Facilities), and Outpatient Surgical Centers. 

Please select a license type to the left for application and renewal information. 

Pharmacist

The following outlines general licensing information. For specific information on filing an application, you will need to obtain the application, which includes a detailed listing of the requirements.

A. Application Fee: All Fees are Non-Refundable
$70.00  Montana Application
$180.00  Transfer or Reciprocity from another State
$25.00   MPJE
$35.00   NAPLEX
$25.00 Clinical Pharmacist Practitioner

B. Education Requirements:
Graduated from an American Council of Pharmaceutical Education (ACPE) Accredited
School of Pharmacy and Proof of 1500 documented internship hours

C. Examination Information: Required to pass NAPLEX and MPJE

D. Renewal Period: May 1 - June 30
Late Renew Online for 45 days until Aug. 14

E. Renewal Fee: Active $65 / Late Fee $65 / Inactive $15 / Inactive Late $15

F. Continuing Education:
It is required for each renewal period1.5 CEU’s (10 hours equal one CEU) with 0.5 CEU obtained in an approved contact/group hours or 2.0 CEU if a pharmacist does not take at least 0.5 CEU in an approved contact/group program.

G. Other Special Requirements: Complete the NABP license transfer application.

 

Clinical Pharmacist Practitioner

Information coming soon.

Pharmacy Community - Certified

The following outlines general licensing information. For specific information on filing an application, you will need to obtain the application, which includes a detailed listing of the requirements.

A. Application Fee: All Fees are Non-Refundable
$240.00 
$75.00  Montana Dangerous Drug Act Dispenser Fee
$75.00  Pharmacy Technician Utilization Plan

B. Renewal Period: Oct. 1 - Nov. 30
Late Renew Online for 45 days until Jan. 14

C. Renewal Fee: Active $150 / Late fee $150

D. Other Special License Requirements:
DEA Registration required for Dispensing of Controlled Substances
Schematic of pharmacy must be submitted with application.

Pharmacy Institutional - Certified

The following outlines general licensing information. For specific information on filing an application, you will need to obtain the application, which includes a detailed listing of the requirements.

A. Application Fee: All Fees are Non-Refundable
$240.00 
$75.00  Montana Dangerous Drug Act Dispenser Fee
$75.00  Pharmacy Technician Utilization Plan

B. Renewal Period: Oct. 1 - Nov. 30
Late Renew Online for 45 days until Jan. 14

C. Renewal Fee: Active $150 / Late Fee $150

D. Other Special License Requirements:
DEA Registration required for Dispensing of Controlled Substances
Schematic of pharmacy must be submitted with application.

Pharmacy Technician

The following outlines general registration information. For specific information on filing an application, you will need to obtain the application, which includes a detailed listing of the requirements.

A. Application Fee: All Fees are Non-Refundable $35.00

B. Education Requirements:
Minimum of a high school diploma or an equivalency certificate.

C. Examination Information:
  • Pharmacy Technician certified by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Tecnician (ExCPT) or other board approved certifying entity.
  • Pharmacy Technician-in-Training has 12 months from the time of registration to pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT). 
    • NOTE:  The Technician-in-Training must notify the Board of their successful examination result within the 12 month timeline for the license to be converted to a Certified Pharmacy Technician license without having to submit a new application.

D. Renewal Period: May 1 - June 30
Late Renew Online for 45 days until Aug. 14

E. Renewal Fee: Active $30 / Late Fee $30

F. Other Requirements:
Required to be employed in a Montana Pharmacy to be registered as a Pharmacy Technician-in-Training.

Pharmacy Technician - in - Training

The following outlines general registration information. For specific information on filing an application, you will need to obtain the application, which includes a detailed listing of the requirements.

A. Application Fee: All Fees are Non-Refundable $35.00

B. Education Requirements:
Minimum of a high school diploma or an equivalency certificate.

C. Examination Information:

  • No examination is required for issuance of a Pharmacy Technician-in-Training License. 
  • Pharmacy Technician-in-Training has 12 months from the time of registration to pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT).
    • NOTE:  The Technician-in-Training must notify the Board of their successful examination result within the 12 month timeline for the license to be converted to a Certified Pharmacy Technician license without having to submit a new application.
  • Pharmacy Technician certified by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technician (ExCPT) or other board approved certifying entity.   

D. Renewal Period Certified Technician: May 1 - June 30
Late Renew Online for 45 days until Aug. 14

E. Renewal Fee Certified Technician: Active fee $30 / Late Fee $30

F. Other Requirements:
Required to be employed in a Montana Pharmacy to be registered as a Pharmacy Technician-in-Training.

Preceptor License

The following outlines general licensing information. For specific information on filing an application, you will need to obtain the application, which includes a detailed listing of the requirements.

A. Application Fee:   $5.00 Duplicate License Fee

B. Other Special License Requirements:
Actively engaged in the practice of pharmacy for one year unless otherwise approved by the Board or other approved disciplines.

A preceptor may only supervise one student in internship or one student in Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experience (IPPE) at any time.  No more than three persons can be supervised at one time (including technicians and students) unless an exception is specifically granted by the Board.  A pharmacist preceptor may supervise two students at a time if the students are completing an Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) through an approved school of pharmacy.

Registered Intern Pharmacist

The following outlines general registration information. For specific information on filing an application, you will need to obtain the application, which includes a detailed listing of the requirements.

A. Application Fee: All fees are Non-Refundable $50.00

B. Education Requirements: Currently enrolled in an American Council of Pharmaceutical Education (ACPE) School of Pharmacy

C. Renewal Period: There is no renewal required.  The intern registration is valid for the duration of the professional years of pharmacy school.

D. Other Special Requirements:
The “Internship Experience Affidavit” and “Evaluation of Internship Site” must be filed by the intern at the end of the internship experience, Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experience (IPPE), or Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) in a given site or after 500 hours, whichever comes first.

The “Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience Affidavit” provided by the University must be filed by the intern at the end of the academic year.

Wholesale Drug Distributor

The following outlines general licensing information. For specific information on filing an application, you will need to obtain the application, which includes a detailed listing of the requirements.

A. Application Fee: All fees are Non-Refundable
$240.00
$100.00  Montana Dangerous Drug Act Distribution Fee
$100.00  Montana Dangerous Drug Manufacture Fee

$75.00    Montana Medical Gas Supplier

$75.00    Montana Medical Gas Distributor

B. Renewal Period: Oct. 1 - Nov. 30
Late Renew Online for 45 days until Jan. 14

C. Renewal Fee: Active $240 / Late Fee $240

Limited Service Pharmacy

The following out lines general licensing information.  For specific information on filing an application,  you will need to obtain the application, which includes a detailed listing of the requirements.

A. Application Fee: $45.00

B. Renewal Period

October 1 - November 30, Late Renewal 45 days until January 14

C. Renewal Fee: Active $45 / Late Fee $45

D. Other Special License Requirements: Schematic of the pharmacy area including security.

Dangerous Drug Researcher

The following out lines general licensing information.  For specific information on filing an application,  you will need to obtain the application, which includes a detailed listing of the requirements.

A. Application Fee: $100.00

B. Renewal Period: Regular renewal dates: May 1 - June 30
Late Renew Online for 45 days until Aug. 14

C. Renewal Fee: Active $50 / Late Fee: $50

D. Other Special License Requirements: Resume of all research proposed relative to any dangerous drugs.  Registraion for such purpose pursuant to the Federal Controlled Substances Act of 1970 (DEA).

Mail Order Pharmacy

The following outlines general licensing information. For specific information on filing an application, you will need to obtain the application, which includes a detailed listing of the requirements.

A. Application Fee: All Fees are Non-Refundable $240.00
$75.00  Montana Dangerous Drug Act Dispenser Fee

B. Renewal Period: Oct. 1 - Nov. 30
Late Renew Online for 45 days until Jan. 14

C. Renewal Fee: Active $240 / Late Fee $240

D. Other Special License Requirements:
Registered with the Montana Secretary of State of Montana
DEA registration required for Distributor/Manufacture of Controlled Substance

Outpatient Surgical Center

The following outlines general registration information. For specific information on filing an application, you will need to obtain the application, which includes a detailed listing of the requirements.

A. Application Fee: All Fees are Non-Refundable
$45.00
$75.00  Montana Dangerous Drug Act Dispenser Fee

B. Renewal Period

October 1 - November 30, Late Renewal 45 days until January 14

C. Renewal Fee: Active $45 / Late Fee $45

D. Other Special License Requirements:
DEA Registration required for Dispensing

Lookup Licensed Individual

Licensee Lookup System

This site is a primary source for verification of license credentials.

The Montana Department of Labor and Industry, Business Standards Division, presents Licensee Lookup information as a service to the public. The Division relies upon information provided by licensees to be true and correct, as required by statute. It is an act of unprofessional conduct for a licensee knowingly to provide erroneous information to the Division.

The Department of Labor and Industry makes no warranty or guarantee concerning the accuracy or reliability of the content of this website. Assessing the accuracy and reliability of information obtained from this website is solely the responsibility of the user. If you have questions regarding information found within this Licensee Lookup website, please contact the specific licensing board directly.

Please note that some disciplinary actions against licensees may not appear immediately on the website. Appeals, effective dates of orders and other administrative processes may delay posting on the website. Please contact the specific licensing board directly if you require discipline information that occurred prior to July 1, 1996.

Download List of Licensees

License Download System

This service allows you to purchase complete lists of individuals, businesses, and contractors licensed with the State of Montana through the Business Standards Division.

Options include:

  • Creating a customized list of licensees by selecting board type, license type, license status, county, etc.;
  • Submitting payment for your list using a credit/debit card or registered user account
  • Downloading your list immediately, and if necessary, retrieving your list within 24-hours of purchase

MPDR Drug Registry

 

Welcome to the Montana Prescription Drug Registry (MPDR)

Click "What is the MPDR?" to learn more about this exciting patient safety program.

If you are having trouble with the MPDR search screen:
If the search screen does not respond when you enter search parameters, then please do the following:

  1. Configure your browser to run in compatibility mode. 
  2. Clear your browser’s history.
  3. Close the browser completely – shut down all tabs and windows.
  4. Re-open your browser and access the MPDR at www.mpdr.mt.gov. 
  5. If the above steps don’t resolve the problem, try installing the Firefox browser and using it to run the MPDR screens.  Firefox is a free download available at http://www.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/new/.  When installing Firefox, you do not need to select it as your default browser.

These steps should resolve the issue.  Ask your technical team for assistance if you don’t know how to perform any of the above steps.  You can also call the MPDR’s technical team at 406-449-3468, Option 0.

MPDR Fee Collection

Each Montana licensee who is authorized to prescribe or dispense controlled substances is required to pay a $30 fee for establishing and maintaining the MPDR [§37-7-1511(1) MCA]. Collection of this fee is now integrated with Montana’s license renewal process; licensees are no longer required to submit a separate payment for the MDPR fee. Click the “How Is The Registry Funded?” link for more information.

Delegate Access

MPDR Registered Users can now delegate their MPDR search authority to authorized agents, or Delegates. Eligible pharmacists and prescribers who have not yet completed all steps of the MPDR’s registration process cannot delegate their search authority. To become an MPDR Registered User, follow the instructions given in the white box on the MPDR’s Home Page, www.MPDR.mt.gov.

  • Registered Users, serving as the Supervising Provider, and their Delegates must review a new set of online training documents. This required training is posted on the MPDR’s Information Page. Responsibilities for delegating search authority are outlined.
  • Registered Users must create an online relationship with their Delegate(s). Each Supervising Provider is responsible for monitoring how their Delegate uses the MPDR’s online service and for updating their online relationship(s) when staffing changes occur.
  • Delegates will create their own MPDR login credentials (user name and password), and must identify the Supervising Provider who authorizes each of their patient history searches.

MPDR Online Services

MPDR Information Page

What is the MPDR?

The 2011 Montana Legislature passed HB83, the Patient Safety Act, which created the Montana Prescription Drug Registry (MPDR). The MPDR became functional in 2012 as an online tool to provide a list of controlled substance prescriptions to health care providers to improve patient care and safety. The program may also be used to identify potential misuse, abuse and/or diversion of controlled substances.

  • Pharmacies are required to report to the MPDR all controlled substance Schedule II – V prescriptions within 8 days of dispensing. Generally, pharmacies are reporting weekly or daily. The MPDR has adopted a nationally-accepted standard for this type of data submission. Click “ What data should I submit?” for further details.
  • All information collected for the MPDR is treated as confidential, protected health information.
  • The MPDR’s online service offers prescribers and pharmacists the ability to search their patents’ medication history for controlled substance Schedule II – V prescriptions. These individuals can have online access to data stored in the registry providing they meet the eligibility and application requirements specified by law. Refer to “Who can access the MPDR?” for more information.
  • The following Montana licensees are eligible to become MPDR Registered Users: Dentists, Physicians (MD and DO), Naturopathic Physicians, Optometrists, Pharmacists, Physician Assistants, Podiatrists, Resident Physicians and Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) with prescriptive authority.
  • MPDR Registered Users can identify authorized agents (Delegates) who can search the MPDR on behalf of their MPDR Supervising Provider. Pharmacists can identify Pharmacy Technicians and Pharmacy Interns as authorized agents. Prescribers can identify any staff member as an authorized agent.
  • All Montana licensees who are authorized to prescribe or dispense controlled substances are required to pay a $30 annual fee. Fee collection is integrated into the license renewal process. See “How Is The Registry Funded?” for full details.

What data should I submit?

What data should my Pharmacy submit to the MPDR?

All pharmacies that hold an active Montana license are required to register with the MPDR and make regular data submissions to the MPDR. This includes community pharmacies, out-of-state mail order pharmacies, outpatient surgical centers, dangerous drug researchers, and institutional pharmacies under certain circumstances. Wholesale Drug Distributors are not required to report to the MPDR. Refer to §37-7-1503 Mont. Code Ann. and Admin. Rules of Montana 24.174.1704 for full details.

  • All affected pharmacies are required to register and submit their historical data and begin regular weekly submissions within 30 days of being licensed to practice in Montana. Download the MPDR Reporting Guide for Pharmacies for complete instructions on how to register and submit data to the MPDR.
  • The MPDR adopted the American Society for Automation in Pharmacy (ASAP) Version 4.1 format for data submission, which is a nation-wide standard recognized by most pharmacy software vendors. Download the MPDR’s Technical Specifications for full details on the MPDR’s data submission standards.
  • A pharmacy’s first data submission should include historical data back to the effective date of their Montana license.
  • All Schedule II, III, IV and V controlled substances must be reported no later than close of the next business day after the date of dispensing the controlled substance (daily reporting). 
    • Note that institutional pharmacies are only required to report prescriptions that leave their premises, such as prescriptions dispensed through the Emergency Department.
  • Any errors, rejections or warnings that are received during a data submission must be corrected and resubmitted to the MPDR no later than close of the next business day after the date of the original submission.
  • If the pharmacy did not dispense any controlled substances in Montana during a calendar month, the pharmacy is required to submit a “zero report” entry to the MPDR no later than the fifth calendar day of the following month.
    • Note that institutional pharmacies are not required to submit zero reports.
    • Pharmacies that never dispense controlled substances in Montana may request to be excused from submitting zero reports. Click “Zero Reporting Attestations” for more information.
    • Institutional Pharmacy reporting requirements:
      • Failure to report in a timely manner may result in disciplinary action by the Board of Pharmacy.
      • If a patient leaves the facility with a controlled substance in their possession, the pharmacy is required to report such dispensing within 8 days.
      • If the controlled substance was administered in the facility and the patient did not leave the premises with additional doses, the pharmacy is not required to report that administration.
      • Institutional pharmacies are not required to submit zero reports.

Zero Reporting Attestations

Can my Pharmacy be excused from submitting monthly Zero Reports?

Institutional Pharmacy licensees are not required to submit zero reports.

Wholesale Drug Distributor licensees are not required to submit any reports to the MPDR.

Any other pharmacy that never dispenses controlled substance Schedule II – V prescriptions to patients in Montana may request to be excused from zero reporting by taking the steps listed below.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Submitting a request to be excused from zero reporting does not mean that the request has been approved. The pharmacy must continue submitting monthly zero reports until they are notified via an email from the MPDR (dlibsdmpdr@mt.gov) that their request has been approved.

How to request to be excused from the MPDR’s zero reporting requirements:

Pharmacies that never dispense controlled substances to patients in Montana may request to be excused from submitting monthly zero reports by taking the following steps:

  1. Newly-licensed pharmacies, including licenses re-issued due to ownership changes and changes of location, must register with the MPDR (see pages 7 through 11 of the MPDR Reporting Guide for Pharmacies) to obtain a Unique ID. Note that pharmacies already licensed in Montana should have an existing Unique ID and do not need to create a new registration (see page 7 of the MPDR Reporting Guide for Pharmacies).

    If the pharmacy does not have a DEA registration, the pharmacy should enter a DEA number of MT9999999 during the MPDR registration process.

    Make note of the Unique ID assigned after a pharmacy is registered.

  2. Download the Pharmacy Zero Reporting Attestation Form.

  3. The Pharmacist-in-Charge (PIC) must complete the form. A corporate office cannot submit this form on behalf of the PIC.

  4. The PIC must include the pharmacy’s Unique ID on the request form; incomplete forms will not be considered for approval.

  5. The original request form should be mailed to the MPDR’s address, which is provided in the Instructions section of the form. This form cannot be submitted via fax or email.

  6. The pharmacy is not excused from monthly zero reporting until an email confirmation has been received from the MPDR (dlibsdmpdr@mt.gov), and must continue to submit timely zero reports until such notification has been received.

IMPORTANT NOTE: if an excused pharmacy subsequently dispenses a controlled substance to a patient in Montana, the pharmacy is required to report the prescription with 8 days of the date the prescription was dispensed. The pharmacy is also required meet the MPDR’s monthly Zero Reporting requirement from that date forward.

A previously-excused pharmacy is not allowed to be excused a second time from the MPDR’s Zero Reporting requirements.

How is the Registry funded?

The MPDR’s operating expenses and system enhancement costs are funded through MPDR fees collected from licensees.

MPDR Fees

Each Montana licensee who is authorized to prescribe or dispense controlled substances is required to pay a $30 fee for establishing and maintaining the MPDR [§ 37-7-1511(1) MCA]. This fee is collected at the time of license renewal. Licensees who owe the MPDR fee include Dentists, Physicians, Physician Assistants, Resident Physicians, Naturopathic Physicians, Optometrists, Pharmacists, Podiatrists, and Advance Practice Registered Nurses with prescriptive authority.

Please note that payment of the MPDR fee is required from all Montana licensees who are authorized to prescribe or dispense controlled substances, regardless of the practitioner’s physical location or use of the MPDR’s online services.

History of Grant Funding

In 2011, the MPDR received a grant through the Montana Board of Crime Control (MBCC) from the Federal Department of Justice (DOJ), Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) to cover the initial planning, start-up and operating expenses. These funds enabled the Board of Pharmacy, through the Department of Labor and Industry, to build and launch the MPDR’s core system, and the grant expired in March 2014.

The MPDR received a second grant from MBCC in October 2013 and funds were used from April 2014 through March 2016.  This grant covered some operating expenses, as well as costs incurred for education and system enhancements.  A third grant from MBCC was received in October 2015 and the funds were used from April 2016 through March 2018 for system enhancements.  The MPDR currently does not receive grant funding. 

Who can access the MPDR?

All prescription data contained in the MPDR is protected health information.

There are no fees associated with access to information in the MPDR. Access will be granted to the types of licensees specified below.

Pharmacists, physicians and other licensees with prescriptive authority for controlled substances are eligible for online access to registry information. Montana licensees who are eligible for online access to the MPDR include Dentists, Physicians, Physician Assistants, Resident Physicians, Naturopathic Physicians, Optometrists, Pharmacists, Podiatrists, and Advance Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) with prescriptive authority. Eligible licensees can apply for registry access on the MPDR Home Page, www.mpdr.mt.gov (follow the registration instructions and links in the white box).

Designated representatives from the Montana Medicare and Medicaid programs, Tribal Health, Indian Health Services and Veterans Affairs are eligible for online access to registry information that has been collected for participants in that representative’s program. These individuals can apply for registry access by completing a request form and submitting it to the MPDR office. The application form for access by agency representatives is available on the MPDR’s Information Page.

Law enforcement professionals, including coroners, can obtain a report of an individual’s registry information by submitting an investigative subpoena for information related to an active investigation. A subpoena must contain certain details in order for the MPDR to release protected health information. Please refer to “How Law Enforcement Can Obtain MPDR Information” on the MPDR’s Information Page, for full details. All reports will be delivered digitally through a secure online file transfer service.

Any individual can request that their medical practitioner or pharmacist provide them with a copy of their own prescription history from the MPDR.

An individual may also submit a notarized copy of a request form to the MPDR’s administrative office in order to obtain a digital or paper report of their own prescription history from the registry. The request form for individual patients is available on the MPDR’s Information Page.

State licensing boards or their agents may request a report when a licensed health care provider is under active investigation for suspected drug abuse or drug diversion. This information may only be shared with the licensing board or individuals who are otherwise involved in the investigation. Board Investigators must submit a request form to the MPDR; this form is posted on the MPDR’s Information Page. All reports will be delivered digitally through a secure online file transfer service.

Montana Board of Pharmacy staff members have access to information in the Registry for administrative and maintenance functions of the MPDR.

Refer to §37-7-1506 Mont. Code Ann. and to Administrative Rules of Montana §24.174.1708 for full details.

Forms, Links and Resources

This is the MPDR Home Page. All online user activity begins on this page.

This is the MPDR's Information Page, which contains the following:

  • Links for Prescribers and Pharmacists to become Registered Users.
  • Required online training for Registered Users and their Delegates.
  • Links for Pharmacies include the MPDR’s Technical Specifications for Reporting, an MPDR Reporting Guide, a Fact Sheet about how to correct information previously submitted to the MPDR, and a form requesting that the pharmacy be excused from submitting zero reports to the MPDR.
  • Links for law enforcement include instructions on how to subpoena MPDR information and how to read the resulting MPDR Reports.
  • Agency links include applications for online access by agency employees and a data request form for use by licensing board investigators.
  • Individuals can download the required form for requesting a copy of their own MPDR history.
  • General Information about the MPDR and links to related statutes and rules.

Contact the Registry

Where can I find more information about the MPDR?

MPDR Home Page: go to www.mpdr.mt.gov.

  • Click the “Try the Demo” button at the bottom of the page.
  • Click the “Information” and “How Do I” links at the top of the page.

MPDR Information Page: go to https://app.mt.gov/pdr. The Information Page contains links to:

  • Required training programs for users.
  • Application and Request Forms.
  • Information Sheets and Users Guides.

For technical assistance with registry access, please contact pdrassistance@egovmt.com or 406-449-3468, Option 0.

If you still cannot find the answer to your question, please contact the MPDR office at dlibsdmpdr@mt.gov or 406-841-2240.

If you would like to be notified of rule changes, Advisory Committee meetings, and other changes pertaining to the MPDR, please send an email to dlibsdmpdr@mt.gov and request to be added to our Interested Parties List.

MPDR Advisory Group

The Board of Pharmacy has statutory authority to establish an Advisory Group responsible for providing information and advice about the development and operation of the MPDR. This group consists of representatives from various licensing boards and professional associations, as well as Tribal Health, Medicaid, Medicare, public health agencies, the Department of Justice and the legislature. Members of the advisory group serve at the pleasure of their respective appointing authorities.


Current members of the MPDR Advisory Group:

Starla Blank Advisory Group Chair, Montana Board of Pharmacy
Dave Campana Montana Medicaid Pharmacist
Dale Chamberlain Montana Board of Dentistry
Dean Chrestenson Missoula Police Department
Bill Gallea Advisory Group Co-Chair, St. Peter's Hospital, Emergency Physician
Bruce Hayward Montana Board of Medical Examiners
Corey Heffernan Montana Pharmacy Association
Kevin Howlett Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes
Kaelyn Kelly Office of Consumer Protection, Montana Department of Justice
Tony King Montana Pharmacy Association
Mark Long Montana Department of Justice, Division of Criminal Investigation
Joan McMahon Montana Medical Association
Ian Nesbit Montana Association of Naturopathic Physicians
Kaye Norris Montana Pain Initiative
Nancy Patterson Montana Association of Naturopathic Physicians
Trudi Schmidt Former Montana State Representative
Laureli Scribner Montana Board of Nursing
Siri Smillie Montana Governor’s Office
Kathy Sprattler Montana Board of Nursing

To contact a member of the MPDR Advisory Group, send an email to dlibsdmpdr@mt.gov. MPDR staff will forward your email to the appropriate individual.

Statute/Rule Information

All of the Statutes and Rules listed here are applicable to this board.

Statutes are laws passed by the Legislature. All changes in statutes must go through the legislative process and be passed into law before they become effective. Title 37, Chapter 1, Part 3 is the Uniform Regulatory Act passed by the Legislature in 1995. All professional and occupational licensing is covered in these statutes.

Administrative Rules pertaining to pharmacy are written and adopted by the Board of Pharmacy. The Board writes rules in order to administer the laws over which the Legislature has given the Board authority. Rules can be changed by going through the rule-making procedure. They do not go through the Legislative process. The Board of Pharmacy continuously reviews rules to determine needed changes.

The Administrative Rules of Montana (ARM) at this site contain what should be the same text as the official version published by the Office of the Secretary of State. There is a possibility, however, that the content may vary from the official version. In addition, the format has been changed for viewing on this web site. A copy of the official ARM in official format can be obtained from the ARM Bureau of the Office of the Secretary of State, by calling (406) 444-2055. A web version of the ARM published by the Secretary of State can be viewed at Secretary of State's Administrative Rules of Montana.

Administrative Rules

Rules Notices

Click here to find rules notices older than one year at the Montana Secretary of State website.

MONTANA ADMINISTRATIVE REGISTER (MAR) 24-101-309

In the matter of the amendment of ARM 24.101.402 definitions and the adoption of New Rule I applicants with criminal convictions

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED AMENDMENT AND ADOPTION
(published October 9, 2020)

MONTANA ADMINISTRATIVE REGISTER (MAR) 24-101-308

In the matter of the amendment of ARM 24.101.417 registration for out-of-state volunteer professionals

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED AMENDMENT
(published May 29, 2020)

NOTICE OF AMENDMENT
effective July 25, 2020

MONTANA ADMINISTRATIVE REGISTER (MAR) 24-174-75

In the matter of the adoption of Temporary Emergency Rule I pertaining to the suspension of telepharmacy monthly inspections in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TEMPORARY EMERGENCY RULE
Publication Date: May 15, 2020
Effective Date:  April 30, 2020 (date filed and certified with Secretary of State

MONTANA ADMINISTRATIVE REGISTER (MAR) 24-174-73

In the matter of New Rule 1 pertaining to positive identification for controlled substance prescriptions. 

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED ADOPTION
Published: November 8, 2019

NOTICE OF ADOPTION
Published: January 17, 2020
Effective Date:  January 18, 2020

MONTANA ADMINISTRATIVE REGISTER (MAR) 24-174-72

In the matter of the amendment of ARM 24.174.503 administration of vaccines by pharmacists and 24.174.1712 prescription drug registry fee.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED AMENDMENT
Published: October 4, 2019

NOTICE OF AMENDMENT
Published:  December 6, 2019
Effective Date:  December 7, 2019

MONTANA ADMINISTRATIVE REGISTER (MAR) 24-174-71

In the matter of the amendment of ARM 24.174.401 fee schedule, 24.174.507 military training or experience, 24.174.524 collaborative practice agreement requirements, 24.174.602 internship requirements, 24.174.604 preceptor requirements, 24.174.612 required forms and reports, 24.174.701 registration requirements, 24.174.703 use of pharmacy technician, 24.174.711 ratio of pharmacy technicians to supervising pharmacists, 24.174.835 transfer of prescriptions, 24.174.2104 registered pharmacist continuing education–requirements, and the repeal of 24.174.702 qualifications of pharmacy technician, 24.174.2101 pharmacies–annual renewal, 24.174.2102 pharmacy technician–renewal, 24.174.2103 renewals, 24.174.2107 registered pharmacist continuing education–noncompliance.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED AMENDMENT
Published: July 5, 2019

NOTICE OF AMENDMENT AND REPEAL
Published: September 20, 2019
Effective Date: September 21, 2019

MONTANA ADMINISTRATIVE REGISTER (MAR) 24-174-70

In the matter of the amendment of ARM 24.174.501 examination for licensure as a registered pharmacist, 24.174.526 requirements to become a clinical pharmacist practitioner, 24.174.1704 requirements for submitting prescription registry information to the board, and the repeal of 24.174.2401 screening panel, 24.174.2402 complaint procedure, and 24.174.2403 legal suspension or revocation.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED AMENDMENT
Published:  March 16, 2018

NOTICE OF AMENDMENT
Published:  September 7, 2018
Effective Date:  September 8, 2018

Statutes

Complaint Information

The Montana Department of Labor & Industry and Professional and Occupational Licensing Boards are charged with taking appropriate action for unprofessional, incompetent, or unlawful practice. To learn more about the complaint process or to file a complaint, please visit our Complaint Information page.

How to File a Complaint

FAQ