How Do I Become a Flea Exterminator?

The training requirements and preparation that are necessary to become a flea exterminator vary depending on the region in which you live. Pest control is a regulated industry, either by a local or federal government, and certain environmental standards must be met in different places, including individual states in the U.S. To become a specialized exterminator that concentrates on a certain type of pest, such as fleas, you will need to be a certain age, such as 18 years or older, and may need to do some type of apprenticeship under a certified professional to qualify.

In order to become a flea exterminator, you will have to handle dangerous pesticides that could cause harm to the environment or individuals and that are accessible in large quantities. As a result, any criminal history is going to come into play when seeking an exterminator license. Criminal convictions surrounding the environment or vandalism are likely to prohibit someone from participating in this field as a professional.

Specific education is required to become a flea exterminator. Some regions will be satisfied with a high school or equivalent level of education, but subsequent training, certification, and practice are likely to be required. The actual requirements, including the amount of time invested and the hours of formal training accomplished, will vary. Learning under the direction of a certified flea exterminator most certainly counts toward training.

Exterminator workshops are available to professionals at different stages of a career. To become a flea exterminator, enroll in such conferences and select a program that caters to new industry professionals. Also, certain workshops will focus on different pests, and you should attend training that will propel you closer in your quest to become a flea exterminator, such as training that teaches about bed bugs and fleas. Workshops where you can learn more about insects and extermination may be held at a local school, college, or a pest-control company. Independent training may be offered by former industry participants who are no longer working as exterminators.

You may need to be certified as a broader pest control professional to become a flea exterminator, but once your career gets underway, you can choose to focus on a type of insect. Expect to take and pass a written test in order to earn the proper certification. You should also plan to drive and develop relationship skills because you will be traveling from house to house or office to office and undoubtedly dealing with people.