The USDA Certification Process
The USDA Organic certification is administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) National Organic Program (NOP). It verifies that farms, ranches, handlers, and processors comply with strict federal standards for organic production, including prohibiting synthetic pesticides, GMOs, and certain fertilizers, while promoting soil health, biodiversity, and animal welfare.
Certification is required to use the USDA Organic seal or label products as "organic" (with exemptions for very small operations selling under $5,000 annually). The process is managed by USDA-accredited third-party certifiers (not directly by USDA).
Farm Transition Services works with you every step of the way (end to end - because your most important job is farming!)
Key Steps to Organic Certification
The USDA outlines five main steps for becoming certified:
Develop an Organic System Plan (OSP)
Create a detailed plan describing your practices, inputs (seeds, fertilizers, feeds), monitoring, recordkeeping, and measures to prevent contamination or commingling with non-organic products. This is the foundation of certification.
Implement the OSP and Select a Certifier
Switch to organic practices. For crops/land, a 36-month transition period is required (no prohibited substances applied). Choose a USDA-accredited certifying agent from the official directory (nearly 80 available nationwide and internationally).
Submit Application and On-Site Inspection
Send your OSP, application, and fees to the certifier. An independent inspector conducts a thorough on-site visit to verify compliance (e.g., reviewing fields, facilities, records, and practices).
Certifier Review and Decision
The certifier evaluates the application, inspection report, and any needed corrections. If compliant, they issue an organic certificate.
Maintain Certification
Annual renewal involves updating your OSP, paying fees, undergoing yearly inspections, and keeping detailed records (auditable for at least 5 years). Unannounced inspections and residue testing can occur anytime.
Important Notes
- Costs: Vary by certifier, operation size, and scope (typically $500–$2,000+ initially, plus annual fees). USDA offers cost-share assistance through programs like the Organic Certification Cost Share Program.
- Timeframe: 3–6 months for initial certification after application (plus transition time).
- Exemptions: Small producers (<$5,000 in organic sales) don't need certification but must follow standards.
- Recent Updates (as of 2025): Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) rules enhance supply chain traceability and require certification for more handlers/brokers.
Talk With Our Experts
Set up an initial meeting to discuss your goals and discuss a strategy to have your farm USDA certified within 36 months.