How much does it cost to get IATF 16949 certified?

The cost of obtaining IATF 16949 certification, the global quality management standard for the automotive industry, can vary widely based on several factors. Here’s a breakdown:

  1. Organization Size and Complexity: Larger companies or those with complex processes and multiple locations can expect higher costs. Small to medium-sized businesses might spend $15,000 to $35,000, while larger enterprises may see costs upwards of $50,000 to $100,000.

  2. Certification Body Fees: Fees vary by certification body and often include the initial audit, surveillance audits, and recertification every three years. Initial certification audits may range from $10,000 to $25,000.

  3. Consulting Fees: Many companies use consultants to ensure compliance with IATF 16949’s rigorous standards. Consulting fees can range from $5,000 to $50,000, depending on the level of assistance and organization size.

  4. Internal Costs: These include employee training, time spent on documentation, and possible upgrades in equipment or software to meet standards, potentially adding $5,000 to $20,000 or more.

Total Estimate

For a small to mid-sized company, the total cost might range from $30,000 to $80,000 initially, with annual surveillance audits costing $5,000 to $15,000 per year after certification.