How do I Become a Pesticide Applicator?

The requirements you’ll have to meet to become a pesticide applicator may depend on the jurisdiction in which you live. In many places, however, you will have to complete a training program, which may last for about three to six months, to become a pesticide applicator. Then, you will usually have to take and pass an exam to become certified to apply pesticides. You may need additional training or have to pass an additional test if you will operate a vehicle, such as an airplane, when applying pesticides. In many jurisdictions, you will also have to participate in continued training each year to keep your certification valid.

The first thing you will need to do to become a pesticide applicator is determine which types of pesticides you want to apply. For example, you may want to apply pesticides in residential or commercial buildings, or you may choose to apply pesticides outdoors. You may, for instance, want to spray crops with pesticides from an airplane, or treat public parks for pests. The types of pesticides you want to apply may influence the training you need as well as the certification requirements you will have to meet.

Depending on the jurisdiction in which you are planning to work, you may receive on-the-job training to become a pesticide applicator. In such a case, you will likely learn the ins and outs of this job under the supervision of a certified pesticide applicator. In other jurisdictions, you may have to enroll in a jurisdiction-approved course or seminar or study from a jurisdiction-provided training manual. You will likely learn not only the proper application of pesticides, but also how to choose and store them. This type of training will usually also cover ways to protect yourself, other people, and the environment when you apply pesticides.

After you complete the training to become a pesticide applicator, you will usually have to take an exam to become certified. This exam tests your knowledge of the proper handling and storage of pesticides. If you will have to operate a vehicle when applying pesticides, you may have to obtain licensing to operate the vehicle as well. Additionally, the jurisdiction may require you to seek additional training each year to maintain your certification.

It is important to note that some jurisdictions will not require you to become certified if you do not plan to purchase pesticide chemicals or apply them without supervision. If you will only apply pesticides under the direct supervision of a certified applicator, you may still need training, and some jurisdictions will still require you to pass an exam, but the training and exam are likely to be less rigorous, however.