Licensing and registration of operators and end-users - trade within the EU

The table below provides the licensing and registration requirements for precursor chemical (also known as scheduled substances) operators and end-users trading within the EU. The requirements are set out in Regulation (EC) No. 273/2004 (as amended).

A precursor chemical annual licence is required for:

  • The operator who is placing a Category 1 precursor chemical on the market.
  • The end-user, for the possession of a Category 1 precursor chemical.

A precursor chemical registration is required for:

  • The operator who is placing Category 2A and 2B precursor chemicals on the market.
  • The end-user, for the possession of a Category 2A precursor chemical.
 Category 1Category 2ACategory 2BCategory 3Category 4
Annual licence/ registrationLicence required for the operator and userRegistration required for the operator and end-user*

Registration required for the operator**

No registration required for end-users

No registration or licence requiredNo registration or licence required
Customer DeclarationCustomer declaration requiredCustomer declaration required Customer declaration required No customer declaration requiredNo customer declaration required

*Registration required for the operator and end-user when quantities exceed more than outlined below (per calendar year).

  1. Acetic Anhydride > 100L
  2. Red Phosphorus > 0.1kg

**Registration required for the operator only when quantities exceed more than outlined below (per calendar year).

  1. Phenylacetic Acid > 1kg
  2. Anthranilic Acid > 1kg
  3. Piperidine > 0.5kg
  4. Potassium Permanganate > 100kg

You can find application forms for precursor chemical licences, registrations, and authorisations on our dedicated page.