Under the Regulation and Inspection of Weighing and Measuring Devices Amendment Act of 2004, the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) requires businesses to register all Universal Product Code (UPC) scanners and commercially used weighing and measuring devices by October 1, 2005. Renewal notices have already been mailed, and merchants who miss the registration deadline will have to pay a $150 late fee.

 

DCRA's Device Registration and Inspection Program protects consumers from being overcharged for items such as produce or prescription drugs. In addition, the program protects individuals who depend on the accuracy of scales used in dialysis clinics.

 

Through the Device Registration and Inspection Program, DCRA tracks the location of all commercially used weighing and measuring devices, prevents illegal weighing and measuring devices from being used in the marketplace and ensures that devices used in commercial transactions are appropriate for the intended use. DCRA inspects devices twice a year to ensure they are properly calibrated and show accurate displays.

 

To complete the registration process, merchants must submit an application*, a Clean Hands form* and a check for applicable fees made payable to the DC Treasurer. For help with completing the application, please see the application instructions*. Completed documents may be dropped off at the One Stop Business Center at 941 North Capitol Street, NE, #1100, between 8:15 am and 4 pm or mailed to the following address:

 

Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs

P.O. Box 96081

Washington, DC 20090

 

For questions about registration, please review the device registration fact sheet* or call DCRA's Business Services Division at (202) 442-4311.