Do GRS, OEKO-TEX®, RCS, and GOTS Certifications Expire or Require Annual Renewal?
Yes, All Major Textile Certifications Require Annual Renewal
GRS, OEKO-TEX® (STANDARD 100, STeP, ECO PASSPORT), RCS, and GOTS certifications all require annual renewal and regular audits—typically every 12 months. A certification issued on January 15, 2025, for example, is generally valid only until January 14, 2026, unless renewed through the next audit cycle.
How Renewal Works
Annual On-Site Audit
Certification bodies conduct yearly physical inspections to verify continued compliance with environmental, social, and quality standards.
Documentation Review
Records of material sourcing, production volumes, TC transaction certificates, and chemical usage logs are examined each cycle.
Certification Validity Periods at a Glance
| Certification | Validity | Audit Type |
|---|---|---|
| GRS (Global Recycled Standard) | 12 months | Annual on-site + document review |
| RCS (Recycled Claim Standard) | 12 months | Annual document review |
| GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) | 12 months | Annual on-site + residue testing |
| OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 | 12 months | Annual laboratory retesting |
| OEKO-TEX® STeP | 12 months | Annual on-site audit |
Important: A certification that expired between order placement and shipment can cause cargo rejection or chargebacks. Always validate that the certificate scope, expiry date, and site address match your current production order.
Best Practices for Brands
- Request the supplier’s current certificate before placing each production order.
- Cross-check the certificate scope, site address, and expiration date.
- Keep TC (Transaction Certificate) documentation linked to specific production runs and shipment dates.
- Set calendar reminders for renewal deadlines of your own brand certifications.
- Work with suppliers who maintain continuous certification without gaps.
Need help verifying your supplier’s certification status? Contact our team for a compliance check.
