If interested in becoming certified, we recommend you review the detailed documentation in the CCA Application and Credential Information Booklet and the 2025 Policy Manual before starting the process.

Meet the experience requirements to become a CCA or CCA Candidate

• Have at least two years of experience and a Bachelor of Science Degree, Master’s Degree or PhD in an agronomy related field
• Have at least three years of experience and an Associates Degree in an agronomy related field
• Have at least four years of experience with no degree or a degree in a non-agronomy related field
• If you do not yet meet the experience requirements, you are still able to take the exams and apply under CCA Candidate status. More information is available in the credential booklet.

Pass the two required comprehensive exams

• International Exam: standardized general exam
• Local Board Exam: based on Missouri’s crops and agriculture

Fill out the CCA credential booklet with your information

• Application must be sent within six months of passing both exams
• Application includes
  • Contact information
  • Documenting education and crop advising experience with transcripts
  • References from employer and client
  • Signing and agreeing to uphold the CCA code of ethics

Wait for review

• Members of your local board will review and approve or deny your application. The board has up to six weeks to grant or deny your certification

Receive your certificate

• Once your application has been approved, you will be granted either full CCA status or CCA Candidate while your experience is completed.

International, Local Board, and Specialty Exams are offered quarterly (four times a year). You can take the International and Local exams in one window or you can split them between different windows.

The International and Local Board exams are organized into sections, Crop Management, Nutrient Management, Soil and Water Management and Pest Management. Section testing offers a flexible way to tackle the ICCA and Local Board exams by allowing candidates to take each of the four sections separately, rather than all at once. You can choose to complete the sections in any order and at your own pace within a five-year timeframe. More information about section testing is available on the exam FAQ page. 

Exam registration is open four times a year that correspond to specific exam dates. View the calendar below to identify the various dates that fit your schedule and accommodate your availability.  

Exams will be conducted during this time frame. 

February 4 – 18, 2026

April 8 – 22, 2026

August 5 – 19, 2026

Nov. 4 – 18, 2026

Specialty certifications

Additional certifications are available for CCAs who want to specialize in a particular field or topic. Learn more about how to earn specialty certifications below.

4R Nutrient Management Specialty (4R NMS) Certification

California Nitrogen Management (CA-NSp) Certification

Precision Agriculture Specialty (PASp) Certification

Resistance Management Specialty (RMS) Certification

Sustainability Specialty (SSp) Certification

Certified Professional Agronomist (CPAg) Certification