Become IATF 16949 Certified Through IAOB Sponsorship
Published: 5/2/2023
**Attention Automotive Suppliers:**
The International Automotive Oversight Bureau (IAOB) is offering a limited sponsorship program to become certified to IATF 16949. Automotive suppliers who meet the criteria will have their audit days for the Stage 1 readiness review and the Stage 2 initial audit paid for by IAOB.
Eligibility criteria:
- 75 or fewer employees executing the automotive quality management system (QMS)
- Gross revenue for the site < $30 million
- IAOB-contracted Certification Body (CB) conducting Stage 1 and Stage 2 initial audit.
- Member of Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG) (even free membership for small companies).
- AIAG Core Tools Assessment completed by key personnel.
- Recommend use and implementation of Core Tools Software.
- Signed contract with IAOB IATF-recognized CB with confirmed Stage 1 audit date.
- Not currently certified to IATF 16949 and not previously certified in the last 3 years.
- Supplier located in North America (initial pilot test region).
If your organization meets the eligibility criteria or are interested in applying, the process breaks down like this:
- Client submits required form and evidence to confirm eligibility and be approved for the sponsorship program
- Application reviewed by IAOB for acceptance, additional information, or denial per eligibility criteria.
- Supplier implements QMS meeting the requirements of IATF 16949.
- IAOB-contracted CB (Smithers) completes Stage 1 and submits reimbursement form for invoiced audit days.
- Supplier implements required corrections based on feedback from Stage 1.
- IAOB-contracted CB (Smithers) completes Stage 2 (and special audit if needed to close out nonconformities).
- Smithers issues certificate to newly IATF certified organization.
- Client is responsible for all subsequent audit and related costs to maintain certification.
Ready to get the process started? Contact us, today, or join us for a Lunch and Learn Webinar with Quality Assessments IATF Sector Manager to learn more!
The fine print:
Client is responsible for auditor travel expenses, certificate fees, or other administrative costs associated with the initial audit. Stage 1 and Stage 2 can be conducted in separate years and separate reimbursement submissions are required. A Stage 2 audit that has a failed result is not eligible for audit days cost reimbursement. Evidence is required to show the date of withdrawal, cancellation, or expiration of an IATF certificate if client was certified more than 3 years prior to submission.