Currently, USDA eAuthentication offers eAuthentication Accounts with Level 1 Access and Accounts with Level 2 Access.
Level 1 Access is limited and does not allow you to conduct official electronic business transactions with the USDA via the internet.
An account with Level 2 Access provides the ability to conduct official electronic business transactions with the USDA via the Internet. You must have a valid email address to register for an account with Level 2 Access. You create a customer profile, User ID, password that you will remember and respond to a confirmation email within seven (7) days. In addition, you must visit the nearest USDA Service Center in person and prove your identity with a current State Driver's License, State Photo ID, US Passport or US Military ID. Approximately one hour after your Level 2 Access has been activated by the USDA Service Center employee, you will have access to USDA applications and services that require an account with Level 2 Access.
On September 3, 2008, Larry Talley and Steve Holden had a teleconference with Owen Unangst of USDA. Owen explained that the USDA e-signature