A Rehab Center’s Step-by-Step Guide to Getting LegitScript Approval

Oct 8, 2025 | Uncategorized

TL;DR: LegitScript certification is required to run ads for drug rehab centers on Google and Meta. The process takes 2 to 3 months and involves paperwork, reviews, and compliance checks. Without it, your ads won’t run. Worry not, for Artgro can help with certification and provide expert drug rehab SEO and rehab marketing services.

Online marketing is one of the most powerful ways for drug rehab centers to reach people who are actively searching for help, but not just anyone can advertise in this space. Platforms like Google and Meta now require LegitScript certification for addiction treatment providers that want to run ads. This is vital to keep in mind.

If you’re new to this or unsure how to start, don’t worry. This guide from our experts at Artgro will walk you through what LegitScript is, why it matters, how to apply, and how long the process takes. We’ll also explain the risks of skipping this step and how working with a marketing team like ours can simplify the entire process.

Whether you’re planning to launch paid campaigns or just want to build a strong digital foundation, understanding LegitScript is key to your rehab center’s growth.

What Exactly is a LegitScript Certification?

LegitScript is a third-party certification company that monitors and approves online advertising in highly regulated industries like addiction treatment, telemedicine, and pharmacy. For drug rehab centers, LegitScript acts as a gatekeeper, ensuring facilities meet strict operational, safety, and legal standards before they can advertise on platforms like Google and Meta (Facebook and Instagram). Without it, your ads won’t run. It’s that simple.

Why Rehab Centers Can’t Ignore LegitScript

If your center offers addiction treatment and you plan to promote your services online, LegitScript certification is no longer optional – it’s required. This certification verifies that your facility is legitimate, transparent, and compliant with local and federal laws. It also shows search engines and potential clients that you’re trustworthy. In a market where credibility directly affects patient decisions, having this certification can give your rehab center a real edge.

How LegitScript Impacts Your Online Advertising

Platforms like Google and Meta have cracked down on healthcare-related ads in recent years due to concerns about fraudulent addiction treatment services. LegitScript bridges that gap, allowing ethical rehab centers to run paid search and display ads once certified. Without it, your drug rehab SEO and overall digital marketing strategy can hit a major wall.

In short, no LegitScript = no ads. And if you can’t run ads, reaching people actively looking for help becomes much harder.

What to Expect During the LegitScript Application

The LegitScript application process involves several key steps:

  1. Initial Application

You’ll need to submit business details, licenses, staff credentials, insurance information, and disclosures.

  1. Document Review

LegitScript will verify that your rehab center meets local, state, and federal guidelines.

  1. Background Checks

They’ll look into ownership, leadership, and facility history.

  1. On-Site Inspection

In some cases, LegitScript may schedule an in-person or virtual audit of your facility.

The process can surely feel overwhelming if you’re unfamiliar with compliance, but the good news is that it’s designed to ensure ethical treatment centers rise to the top.

How Long Does LegitScript Certification Take?

On average, LegitScript certification takes 2 to 3 months from start to finish, assuming all paperwork is in order. However, delays can happen if your documents are incomplete or if additional verifications are required. It’s always best to get started early, especially if your goal is to launch paid advertising campaigns by a specific date.

What Happens If You Advertise Without LegitScript?

Attempting to advertise without LegitScript certification is not only ineffective, it’s risky.

Your ad account can be suspended, or worse, blacklisted. Even if your intentions are good, platforms like Google have zero tolerance for non-certified rehab advertisers. And beyond ad restrictions, failing to meet LegitScript standards can call your facility’s credibility into question.

So, if you’re serious about addiction treatment SEO and reaching people who need help, getting certified is a necessary investment.

Need Help? Work with Us at Artgro

Artgro specializes in Digital Marketing for Addiction Treatment Centers. We’ve worked with facilities across the country to help them not only get LegitScript certified, but also rank on Google, run compliant ad campaigns, and build patient trust through effective digital marketing.

LegitScript Certification: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is LegitScript certification free?
A: No. The application involves a fee based on the number of facilities you operate. Prices start at several hundred dollars.

Q: Can I still do SEO without LegitScript?
A: Yes. You can still optimize your website and rank organically with addiction treatment SEO, but know that paid ads require LegitScript.

Q: How long does certification last?
A: You’ll need to renew annually. LegitScript will continue to monitor your compliance throughout the year.

Q: Is LegitScript only required for rehab centers in the United States of America?
A: No. Centers in Canada and other countries are also required to get certified if they want to advertise to U.S. audiences.

Q: Does Artgro help with the LegitScript application?
A: Yes, we guide rehab centers through the certification process as part of our rehab marketing services.

Whether you’re just getting started or struggling to navigate the LegitScript application process, Artgro can help streamline the journey and set you up for long-term success.

Need help with SEO Services or Digital Marketing for Addiction Treatment Centers?
Contact us today at Artgro and let’s build a strategy that works.