(a) In order to be considered for certification as a technical service provider, an individual must:

1. (1) Submit an Application for Certification to NRCS in accordance with this section;
2. (2) Request certification through a recommending organization pursuant to § 652.25; or
3. (3) Request certification through an application submitted by a private-sector entity or public agency pursuant to § 652.23 or § 652.24, as appropriate.

(c) NRCS will, within 60 days of receipt of an application, make a determination on the application submitted by an individual under paragraph (a)(1) of this section and in accordance with paragraph (a) of § 652.21. If all requirements are met, NRCS will:

1. (1) Enter into a Certification Agreement and certify the applicant as qualified to provide technical services for a specific practice, category, or categories of technical service;
2. (2) Place the applicant on the list of approved technical service providers when certified; and
3. (3) Make available to the public the list of approved technical service providers by practice or category of technical services.