A licensed blood bank is one that:

·       Has applied for and received formal approval from the relevant provincial or federal authority.

·       Meets minimum standards for infrastructure, staffing (including qualified medical officers and technologists), equipment, testing, storage and record‑keeping.

·       Agrees to regular inspections and audits and to follow national policies for safe blood transfusion.

Licensing is not a one‑time act; it must be renewed periodically, and licenses can be suspended or cancelled if standards are not maintained.