How To: Hemp Producers License
1. Create an account on the USDA’s website
Creating a USDA eAuth account is the first step in applying for a hemp license. Once you create an account you’ll be able to access the Hemp eManagement Platform (HeMP). This is where you will submit your application and do all your tracking.
website: https://www.eauth.usda.gov/eauth/b/usda/home
2. Obtain an FBI criminal history report
You will need to obtain a copy of the criminal history report for you and all “key participants” listed under your license.
If you have been convicted of a felony related to controlled substances in the last 10 years, you are ineligible for a license at this time.
website: https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/identity-history-summary-checks
3. Register to use the Hemp eManagement Platform
Detailed instructions on how to register and use this system can be found on the USDA website.
website: www.hemp.ams.usda.gov
4. Apply for a license
Follow the instructions on the HeMP online tool to apply for a USDA hemp production license. You will need your FBI criminal history report.
5. Designate your lots
A “lot” is defined as a contiguous area in a field, greenhouse, or indoor growing structure planted with the same variety or strain of hemp. If you are arranging plants in pots, in a greenhouse or planting under a hoop in anticipation of a winter harvest this year, think about how you are going to designate your lots. You may establish as many separate lots as you wish, but each lot must be sampled and tested separately. If you plant different varieties or strains or plant across noncontiguous land areas, you must designate separate lots. While there is no restriction on the size of a hemp lot or the number of lots designated, you are responsible for all sampling and testing fees for each of your designated lots.
6. Report hemp acreage to USDA Farm Service Agency
Immediately after planting hemp, contact your local USDA Farm Service Agency and make an appointment to establish your farm record and report your hemp crop acreage.
You will need the following documents:
– USDA Hemp License
– Deed/Lease to the land
– Planting date
– GPS coordinates
– Crop type
– Intended use
– Size of each lot
– Irrigation practices
Once you establish your farm record, the FSA will assign an FSA lot ID for each of your planted hemp lots. Each FSA lot ID must be sampled and tested separately
website: USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) Service Center locator
website: USDA FSA Self Service Portal
7. Sampling and Testing
You are responsible for finding your own sampling agent and laboratory testing facility. The USDA will not sample or test hemp and licensees may not act as a sampling agent.
First, find a certified hemp sampling agent. Our association has in house testing agents that you can schedule an appointment with here: Book a Sampling Agent
Next, find a certified hemp testing facility here: WI Laboratories registered with the DEA
You may use any lab that meets the USDA minimum performance requirements (pdf). The Laboratory must test for total THC concentration and report all test results to you and the USDA. A lot of laboratories across Wisconsin have begun offering this service as a bundled package for one price
Wisconsin Producers License Requirements
As of January 1, 2022 all DATCP industrial hemp producers need to transition over to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) industrial hemp program. All new producers must also obtain a license through the USDA . This page is intended to help current and new Wisconsin producers transition or apply to the USDA industrial hemp program. All information was provided by the USDA and is current as of January 1, 2022.
Useful Links:
Book your sampling consultation today. Our in house sampling agent will contact you and obtain all the necessary information prior to the appointment.