Starting level and typical ranges
These ranges use the starting level alone, before any adjustments, for someone with no criminal record unless the column says otherwise. Most real cases add levels.
| Starting point | Level | Trial | Guilty plea | Plea + zero-point | Category IV, plea |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Getting drugs by fraud or forgery, the starting point | 8 | 0–6 months | 0–6 months | 0–6 months | 6–12 months |
Important details
- The calculator does not apply mandatory minimum sentences set by statute for this offense. If the statute of conviction requires one and it is higher than the range shown, the minimum controls; check the statute or ask a lawyer.
Frequently asked questions
What is the base offense level for obtaining drugs by fraud?
The guideline for obtaining drugs by fraud is §2D2.2 of the federal Sentencing Guidelines. Its starting level is 8, before any adjustments.
What is the guideline range for obtaining drugs by fraud with no criminal history points and a guilty plea?
Using the starting level alone, a person with no criminal history points who pleads guilty scores 0–6 months, including the 2-level zero-point reduction. Adjustments such as role in the offense or obstruction can change the level, and the judge can sentence outside the range.
Is probation possible for obtaining drugs by fraud?
The guidelines allow it at the starting level: with a guilty plea and the zero-point reduction the range begins at 0 months (Zone A), so prison is not required, unless the offense is a Class A or B felony or the statute rules probation out (§5B1.1(b)). Added facts can raise the range out of Zone A.
Is the calculator accurate for obtaining drugs by fraud?
It follows §2D2.2 of the Guidelines Manual effective November 1, 2025. It passed 5 review rounds, each comparing every number, rule and label with the manual text, and its last round found nothing to correct. Those reviews were done with AI tools, not by lawyers, and it has not yet been reviewed by an attorney, so mistakes are possible. The guidelines are advisory, and a lawyer who knows the case can tell you what actually applies.
Related offenses
- Operating a Common Carrier Under the InfluenceRan a bus, train, plane or ship while drunk or on drugsVerified
- Drug Registration Number OffensesMisused a drug registration number, or illegally advertised drugsVerified
- Regulatory Drug OffensesBroke regulatory rules for handling drugs or listed chemicalsVerified
- Drug TraffickingSold, moved or made drugsVerified
- Drug Dealing Near a School or Involving a MinorDealt drugs near a school, or involving an underage or pregnant personVerified
- Continuing Criminal EnterpriseRan a large, ongoing drug organizationVerified
- Using a Phone to Commit a Drug CrimeUsed a phone, the mail or the internet to commit a drug crimeVerified
- Drug ParaphernaliaSold or shipped drug paraphernaliaVerified