Certification Training & Requirements

Individuals who attend a Beef Quality Assurance training workshop conducted by the NM Cooperative Extension Service and pass a test administered at the workshop, can become NM BQA Certified producers. This can and should include anyone involved in beef or dairy cattle production, and may include individuals who do not own or market animals, such as ranch hands or dairy workers.

NM BQA Certification is valid for three years (renewal January 1, expiration December 31). Certification will automatically renew if all recertification requirements are satisfied.

Recertification Requirements

Six (6) CEUs are required during each license term for recertification. Producers must also complete and return the Vet Client Patient Relationship (VCPR) form and Critical Management Plan/Affidavit (CMP). Once on file the VCPR and CMP forms do not need to be completed each term unless an update is needed.

BQA Certified producers with a current license may opt to participate in events designated as "BQA Certification Training" and receive 2 CEUs only once during a license term. Producers attending for CEUs only, will not be required to complete the online test.

Individuals who prefer to take the Certification Training online may do so by contacting the National BQA Program then registering and setting up an account. You will still need to contact your local county agent to complete testing requirements for New Mexico.

To check the status of your NM BQA Certification, contact your County Extension Agent or email bqa@nmsu.edu.