Earthworms FAQ's

Do I need to submit a separate application for each State in which I plan to sell the earthworms? 

You need to submit only one PPQ permit application for the State where your business is located. You may receive imported shipments only at the permitted business address. If you do not have a central facility to receive imported shipments, each of your customers must possess a valid PPQ permit to receive imported earthworm shipments.

Can I obtain a permit for the importation of earthworms other than Dendrobaena veneta for research in my laboratory? 

Yes you can apply for a permit to import other species of earthworms, but your laboratory may be inspected to confirm that you are able to prevent their release to the environment. Such permits will restrict all activities to a containment laboratory and will not allow subsequent movement or environmental release without an additional PPQ permit.

I understand that when I receive my PPQ permit to import earthworms I also need Red & White labels. How do I order these? 

Simply log into APHIS eFile, navigate to My Activity and search for your permit. On the permit details page, view and download your labels in the Labels section. One label will be issued for the life of the permit and is reusable. If you need additional assistance for red and white labels, email Redandwhitelabelrequest@aphis.gov.

Do I need a Red & White label for each package that is shipped?

No, you only need one label for each imported shipment.