What is the process for EPA approval of disinfectant products related to COVID-19?

EPA reviews and registers antimicrobial pesticides, which include disinfectants for use on pathogens like SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. Products expected to kill SARS-CoV-2 are added to EPA’s List N: Disinfectants for Use Against SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), which shows products that are effective against COVID-19.

If you have an antimicrobial product intended for use against SARS-CoV-2, please consult our guides on amending product registrations to add claims of efficacy against SARS-CoV-2, claims of residual efficacy, and directions for electrostatic spray application.

If you would like to register a new pesticide (including disinfectants), please see the Pesticide Registration Manual, a resource for those who want to have their pesticide products registered for sale in the United States. In addition, information on what needs to be on a pesticide label is found in the Pesticide Label Review Manual. If you still have questions after reviewing the manuals, EPA suggests registrants consider employing the services of a pesticide regulatory consultant, which you can find by searching the internet. We recommend checking at least three references.

Companies with a pending submission can contact EPA via email with their CDX tracking number to request an update on their submission status.

Return to Frequent Questions about Disinfectants and Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Related Questions

• Are there any changes to the registration of disinfectants due to COVID-19?
• Do I need to register disinfectant products with EPA in order to import them?
• Does EPA regulate companies that require cleaning services claiming to disinfect for SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)?
• Will EPA take enforcement action against companies making false claims that their disinfectants work against SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)?
• What is an emerging viral pathogen claim?
• Why aren’t hand sanitizers listed on List N?
• What’s the difference between products that disinfect, sanitize, and clean surfaces?