Beverage Container Recycling: Recyclers & Processors

How to Become a Certified Operator

Once you determine your category for certification, fill out the appropriate certification application and send it with other required supporting documents to:

Beverage Container Recycling Program
Certification Section
801 K Street, MS 15-59
Sacramento, CA 95814-3533

Before mailing your application, make sure you have done the following:

• Completed all items on the application form.
• Enclosed all required supporting documents with the applications.
• Provided the appropriate original signature(s) and initials on the application form.

Be sure you read and understand the Requirements of Certified Operators.

The Application Process

• CalRecycle has 15 working days to initially review your application.
• If your application is found to be incomplete, you will be sent a letter telling you what is needed to complete your application.
• If your application is complete when received, or completed after notification, CalRecycle has an additional 45 calendar days to further review your application and to conduct any on-site program reviews as necessary. If you have never been certified by the Division, a program review is required.
• Upon approval of your application, CalRecycle will mail a notification of approval along with your certificate showing the certification number and expiration date and an operating manual. Operators of recycling centers will later be sent a sign or decal that identifies them to the public as a certified operator.

For Recycling Centers and Processors:

• It is important to consider this review schedule because you cannot act as a certified operator until your application is approved and you have notified the Division in writing of your operational date.
• Once your application is approved, you are required to begin operating within 60 calendar days or the certification number will become invalid and you will have to reapply.

Application

Print a copy of the instructions and the application for certification.

• Certification Application for Recycling Centers & Processors (PDF, 132 KB)
  Instructions for recycling centers and processors (PDF, 128 KB)
• Certification Application for Collection and Community Service Programs (PDF, 106 KB)
  Instructions for collection and community service programs (PDF, 118 KB)

Or you can call (916) 324-8598 to have an application mailed to you.