Pesticide, Certified Applicators, & Registered Technicians
The Pesticide, Certified Applicators, & Registered Technicians program makes sure pesticides are used safely by watching over the people who are trained to use pesticides.
Private Pesticide Applicator
- What It Is: A license needed to use certain pesticides on land you own or rent for farming.
- How to Get It: Pass a free test, then pay $10 for the license.
- Special Cases: Extra testing and a special permit are needed for using certain fumigants.
- Renewal: Take update training every 3 years and pay $10 to renew your license.
- Find Training: Use the Recertification Course Locator.
Commercial/Public Pesticide Applicator
- What It Is: A license needed to work with pesticides for a business or in public areas.
- How to Get It: Pass two tests (one core and one or more category tests) and be employed by a pesticide business.
- Costs: Core test - $50, each category test - $10, Commercial license - $40 per year, Public license - $10 every 3 years.
- Renewal: Attend update training for core and category topics. Missing credits means losing your license.
- Find Training: Use the Recertification Course Locator.
Registered Pesticide Technician
- What It Is: A technician who helps with pesticide applications under the supervision of a certified applicator.
- How to Get It: The business registers you, and you must train with a certified applicator for at least 30 days.
- During Training: You can’t apply pesticides alone; you must be supervised.
- Costs: Commercial Technician - $30 per year, Public Technician - $20 per year.
Pesticide Certification Exams and Study Packets
- Exams: Given at PDA Regional Offices. Check dates on PaPlants.
- Study Materials: Buy from Penn State University or online.
