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Florida Pesticide Licensing & CEUs

Which Pesticide License Do You Need?

The following will help you figure out:

  • Which pesticide license do you need?
  • Which test is required?
  • What manuals do you need to study.
  • What passing grade is required?
  • Are there any limitations on the certification?
  • What are the renewal requirements of your license?

The laws can be somewhat complex and vague at times. This document cannot answer all questions. If in doubt, consult the Pesticide Applicator Certification and Licensing in Florida [pdf] Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). Call (850) 488-3314 to obtain a copy of this publication. For more information, visit FDCAS’s Division of Agricultural Environmental Services website or call (850)617-7900.


Take the Questionairre

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Pesticide Certification Decision Questions

The following questions and answers are intended to help potential applicators determine specifically which certification they require.

1. Do you work for a public agency?

Yes Go to Question #3
No Go to Question #2

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2. What type of Property are you spraying? Private or Commercial?

Private property owned by you or your employer (does NOT include contractors for-hire). Go to Question #5
Private property owned by a person or business other than yourself or your employer (includes contractors for-hire and wood treatment). Go to Question #4
Public property owned by the public and administered by a Local, State or Federal Agency. Go to Question #4

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3. What type of Public Site are you treating?

Agriculture Go to Question #7
Aquatic (herbicides only) Public Certification (Aquatic)
Forest Public Certification (Forest)
Marine paint for boats & other structures Public Certification 
(Organotin Antifouling Paint)
Mosquito Control Public Certification (Public Health)
Natural Area Public Certification (Natural Areas)
Right-Of-Way Public Certification (Right-of-Way)
Structural or Interior pest control Public Certification (Limited Structural)
Turf & Landscape around or near public buildings Public Certification
(Limited Lawn & Ornamental)
Turf & landscape at golf courses, parks & cemeteries ONLY Public Certification (Ornamental & Turf)
Wood treatment Public Certification (Wood Treatment)

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4. What type of Commercial Site are you treating?

Aquatic (herbicides only) Commercial Certification (Aquatic)
Agricultural (farm, ranch, grove, etc) Go to Question #6
Forest Commercial Certification (Forest)
Marine paint for boats & other structures Commercial Certification
(Organotin Antifouling Paint)
Natural Area Commercial Certification (Natural Areas)
Right-Of-Way Commercial Certification (Right-of-Way)
Structural or interior pest control Pest Control Operator Certification
(General Household)
Landscape shrubs/ beds only (no turf) Limited Commercial Landscape Maintenance Certification
Turf & landscape Pest Control Operator Certification (Lawn & Ornamental)
Wood treatment Commercial Certification (Limited Lawn & Ornamental)

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5. What type of Private Site are you treating?

Structural or Interior pest control Limited Structural Certification
Turf & Landscape pest control Limited Lawn & Ornamental Certification
Other privately owned or rented (by the client or client's employer) property - i.e. farm, ranch, grove, nursery, etc. Private Certification (Private Applicator)

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6. What type of Site are you treating?

Agriculture Animals Commercial Certification
(Agriculture Animals)
Agriculture Row Crop Commercial Certification
(Agriculture Row Crop)
Agriculture Tree Crop Commercial Certification
(Agriculture Tree Crop)
Raw Agricultural Commodity Fumigation Commercial Certification
(Agriculture Tree Crop)
Soil & Greenhouse Fumigation Commercial Certification
(Soil & Greenhouse Fumigation)

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7. What type of Public Agriculture Site are you treating?

Agriculture Animals Public Certification (Agriculture Animals)
Agriculture Row Crop Public Certification (Agriculture Row Crop)
Agriculture Tree Crop Public Certification (Agriculture Tree Crop)
Raw Agricultural Commodity Fumigation Public Certification (Raw Agricultural Commodity Fumigation)
Soil & Greenhouse Fumigation Public Certification (Soil & Greenhouse Fumigation)

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Florida Pesticide Licenses and Certifications

Aerial  Organotin Antifouling Paint
Agriculture Animal  Ornamental & Turf
Agriculture Row Crop  Pest Control Operator
Agriculture Tree Crop  Private Applicator 
Aquatic  Public Health 
Forest  Raw Agricultural Commodity Fumigation 
Limited Commercial Maintenance  Right-Of-Way 
Limited Lawn & Ornamental  Soil & Greenhouse 
Limited Structural  Wood Treatment 
Natural Areas  

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Aerial Pesticide License

The Florida Aerial Pesticide License is available either as a Public certification, for those applicators that apply pesticides by air and that work for federal, state, county or municipal public agencies, or as a Commercial certification for contractors for apply by air.

The Florida Aerial Pesticide Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%), and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

A helpful resource is the UF/IFAS publication Requirements of Aerial Applicators in Florida

Costs

Testing: Free

License Application: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

License Renewal: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

Renewal

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 20 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 16 CEUs in the Aerial category

    plus
  • 4 CEUs in the CORE category.

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

Study Materials

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.

These materials are also available on a walk-in basis at the Hillsborough County Extension Office. Call ahead to be sure of availability.



Agriculture Animal

The Florida Agricultural Animal Pesticide License is available either as a Public certification, for those applicators that apply pesticides to row crops and that work for federal, state, county or municipal public agencies, or as a Commercial certification for contractors.

The Florida Agricultural Animal Pesticide Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%), and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 8 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

A helpful resource is the UF/IFAS publication Licensing of Agricultural Animal Pesticide Applicators in Florida

Costs

Testing: Free

License Application: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

License Renewal: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

Renewal

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 8 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 4 CEUs in the Ag Animal category

    plus
  • 4 CEUs in the CORE category.

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

Study Materials

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.

These materials are also available on a walk-in basis at the Hillsborough County Extension Office. Call ahead to be sure of availability.

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Agriculture Row Crop

The Florida Agricultural Row Crop Pesticide License is available either as a Public certification, for those applicators that apply pesticides to row crops and that work for federal, state, county or municipal public agencies, or as a Commercial certification for contractors.

The Florida Agricultural Row Crop Pesticide Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%), and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 16 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

A helpful resource is the UF/IFAS publication Licensing of Agricultural Row Crop Pesticide Applicators in Florida

Costs

Testing: Free

License Application: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

License Renewal: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

Renewal

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 16 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 8 CEUsin the Ag Row Crop category

    plus
  • 4 CEUsin the CORE

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

These materials are also available on a walk-in basis at the Hillsborough County Extension Office. Call ahead to be sure of availability.

Study Materials

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.

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Agriculture Tree Crop

The Florida Agricultural Tree Crop Pesticide License is available either as a Public certification, for those applicators that apply pesticides to row crops and that work for federal, state, county or municipal public agencies, or as a Commercialcertification for contractors.

The Florida Agricultural Tree Crop Pesticide Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%), and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam.Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 12 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

A helpful resource is the UF/IFAS publication Licensing of Agricultural Tree Crop Pesticide Applicators in Florida

Costs

Testing: Free

License Application: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

License Renewal: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

Renewal

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 12 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 8 CEUsin the Ag Tree Crop category

    plus
  • 4 CEUsin the CORE

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

Study Materials

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.

These materials are also available on a walk-in basis at the Hillsborough County Extension Office. Call ahead to be sure of availability.

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Aquatic

The Florida Aquatic Pesticide License is available either as a Public certification, for those applicators that apply herbicides to bodies of water and that work for federal, state, county or municipal public agencies, or as a Commercial certification for contractors for aquatic pesticide work.

The Florida Aquatic Pesticide Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%), and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

A helpful resource is the UF/IFAS publication Licensing of Aquatic Herbicide Applicators in Florida

Costs

Testing: Free

License Application: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

License Renewal: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

Renewal

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 20 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 16 CEUsin the Aquatic category

    plus
  • 4 CEUsin the CORE

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

Study Materials

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.

These materials are also available on a walk-in basis at the Hillsborough County Extension Office. Call ahead to be sure of availability.

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Forest

The Florida Forest Pesticide License is available either as a Public certification, for those applicators that apply pesticides to row crops and that work for federal, state, county or municipal public agencies, or as a Commercial certification for contractors.

The Florida Agricultural Tree Crop Pesticide Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%), and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 12 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

A helpful resource is the UF/IFAS publication Licensing of Forest Pesticide Applicators in Florida

Costs

Testing: Free

License Application: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

License Renewal: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

Renewal

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 12 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 8 CEUsin the Forest category

    plus
  • 4 CEUsin the CORE

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

Study Materials

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.

These materials are also available on a walk-in basis at the Hillsborough County Extension Office. Call ahead to be sure of availability.

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Limited Commercial Maintenance

The Florida Limited Commercial Maintenance License is available only for Landscape Maintenance Contractorsapplying pesticides to their customers' properties. This license is sometimes incorrectly called the "Roundup License". In fact this license can be used for much more than the herbicide, Roundup®. Products are limited to "Caution" labels only, not "Warning" or "Danger" labels. Applications are limited to beds and shrubs, not turf. Application equipment is limited to backpacks and handheld pump-up sprayers; not powered equipment.

This certification no longer requires documentation of 3 years experience in Landscape Maintenance. Each applicator must be licensed and may not supervise other applicators. Six hours of training, an application, and proof of insurance is required.  See complete details for the Limited Certification Application Instructions for Commercial Landscape Maintenance (216KB pdf).

Note: the application has not yet been changed to reflect changes in license requirements; the documentation of experience is no longer required.

The Florida Limited Commercial Maintenance License Exam requires a passing grade (75%). This certification must be renewed annually either by testing or with 4 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the Extension Office in your county to determine if they offer Exam Prep Classes for this license; or check the Calendar of Events for upcoming training in the Hillsborough County area.

Costs

Exam: $150

License: Free

Renewal: $75 (if recertifying with CEUs; $150 if recertifying by reexamination)

Renewal

The Renewal period is annually. 4 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal. Any combination of Limited Commercial CEUs and CORE CEUs is acceptable.

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

Helpful Publications

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Study Manual Information

These test study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by orderingonline or by calling 1-800-226-1764. If you order with a credit card, you should receive the books within 4-5 business days.


Limited Lawn & Ornamental

The Florida Limited Lawn & Ornamental License, also known as the "Limited L&O License", is available only to employees on private property (in-house maintenance crews) and employees of government agencies who make pesticide applications to the turf and ornamental areas of the property.

See complete details for the Limited Lawn and Ornamental Application linked to the right application above).

The Florida Limited Lawn & Ornamental License Exam requires a passing grade (75%). This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 4 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the Extension Office in your county to determine if they offer Exam Prep Classes for this license; or check the Calendar of Events for upcoming training in the Hillsborough County area.

Costs

Exam: $150

License: Free

Renewal: $25 (if recertifing with CEUs; $150 if recertifying by reexamination)

Renewal

The Renewal period is 4 years. 4 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal. Any combination of Limited Lawn & Ornamental CEUs and CORE CEUs is acceptable.

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

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Helpful Publications

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Study Manual Information

These test study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by orderingonline or by calling 1-800-226-1764. If you order with a credit card, you should receive the books within 4-5 business days.


Limited Structural

The Florida Limited Structural License is available only to employees on private property (in-house maintenance crews) and employees of government agencies who make pesticide applications in, on, around or under structures.

See complete details for the Limited Certification Application Instructions for Commercial Landscape Maintenance (216KB pdf).

The Florida Limited Structural License Exam requires a passing grade (75%). This certification must be renewed every 4 yearseither by testing or with 4 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the Extension Office in your county to determine if they offer Exam Prep Classes for this license; or check the Calendar of Events for upcoming training in the Hillsborough County area.

Costs

Exam: $150

License: Free

Renewal: $25 (if recertifying with CEUs; $150 if recertifying by reexamination)

Renewal

This certification must be renewed every 4 years. 4 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal. Any combination of Limited Structural CEUs and CORE CEUs is acceptable.

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

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Helpful Publications

Study Manual Information

These test study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. If you order with a credit card, you should receive the books within 4-5 business days.


Natural Areas

The Florida Natural Areas Pesticide License is available either as a Public certification, for those applicators that apply pesticides to dry natural areas and that work for federal, state, county or municipal public agencies, or as a Commercialcertification for contractors.

The Florida Natural Areas Pesticide Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%), and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. Please see Core Exam FAQ.This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

Helpful resources are UF/IFAS publications: Licensing of Natural Areas Pesticide Applicators in Florida 
Study questions for the Certified Pesticide Applicator Exam: Natural Areas Weed Management

Costs

Test: Free
License:
$100 for Public category
$250 for Commercial category
License Renewal:
$100 for Public category
$250 for Commercial category

Renewal

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 20 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 16 CEUsin the Natural Areas category

    plus
  • 4 CEUsin the CORE

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Compliance Monitoring (BCM), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-488-8731, or by fax at 850-488-8498, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

Study Manual Information

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.

These materials are also available on a walk-in basis at the Hillsborough County Extension Office. Call ahead to be sure of availability.

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Ornamental & Turf

The Florida Ornamental & Turf Pesticide License, also known as the "O&T License", is available either as a Publiccertification, for those applicators that apply herbicides to golf courses, parks and cemeteries and that work for federal, state, county or municipal public agencies, or as a Commercialcertification for contractors to apply pesticides in those same areas.

The Florida Ornamental & Turf Pesticide Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%), and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 16 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

Helpful resources are the UF/IFAS publications: Licensing of Lawn and Ornamental Pesticide Applicators in Florida 
Posting of Lawn and Ornamental Pesticide Applications

Costs                    

Test: Free

License:

$100 for Public category
$250 for Commercial category

License Renewal

$100 for Public category
$250 for Commercial category

Renewal

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 16 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 12 CEUsin the Ornamental & Turf category

    plus
  • 4 CEUsin the CORE

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

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Study Manual Information

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.


Pest Control Operator

The Florida Pest Control Operator License, is available only to Commercial Contractors applying pesticides to their customers' properties. This certification is only available to those with documentation of 3 years experience working "under" someone with the same category of this certification. There are 4 different categories within this certification: General Household Pest (GHP), Lawn & Ornamental (L&O), Termite, and Fumigation.

The Florida Pest Control Operator Certification Exam requires a passing grade (75%). This certification must be renewed annually either by testing or with 2 CORE Continuing Education Units (CEUs) plus 2 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) per category.

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing. Exam Prep Classes may be available in your area.

Costs

Exam: $300

Certification Fee: $150

Renewal: $150

Renewal Information

The Renewal period is annually. Renewal is due by June 1st of each year. After July 1st, there will be a $50.00 late fee. The license cannot be renewed after 180 days beyond June 1st. 4 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

Study Materials

The study materials vary according to which of the four catergories within this certificaton is being pursued. For a complete listing of materials see Florida Pest Control Operator Exam Dates and Information

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Private Applicator

The Florida Private Applicator License, is available only to private individuals applying pesticides to their own property or to property rented, leased to them or to their employer.

The Florida Private Applicator Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%) on the Private Applicator Exam and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 8 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

A helpful resource is the UF/IFAS publication Licensing of Private Pesticide Applicators in Florida

Costs

Test: Free

License: $100

License Renewal: $100

Renewal Information

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 8 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 4 CEUsin each appropriate category

    plus
  • 4 CEUsin the CORE

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Compliance Monitoring (BCM), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-488-8731, or by fax at 850-488-8498, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

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Study Manual Information

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.


Public Health

This license is also known as the mosquito control license and is required for Mosquito and Biting Fly Control pesticide applicators.

The Florida Public Health Pesticide License, also known as the "Mosquito Control License" is required for Mosquito and Biting Fly Control pesticide applicators.

The Florida Public Health Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%) and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 16 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

A helpful resource is the UF/IFAS publication Licensing of Public Health Pest Control Applicators in Florida

Costs

Test: Free

License: Free

License Renewal: Free

Renewal Information

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 16 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

Study Manual Information

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.

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Florida Pesticide Testing Information

Both of the required exams may be taken at your local county extension service office or the Bureau's Headquarters in Tallahassee, at any of the twelve regional entomologist / inspectors located throughout the State, and at certification workshops that are held regionally during the Spring.

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine if they offer Exam Prep Classes for this license

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Organotin Antifouling Paint

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Public Certification in the Organotin Antifouling Paint Category.

This certification requires a passing grade (70%) on the Organotin Antifouling Paint Exam. You do not need to take the General Standards (CORE) Exam. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 4 CEUs. As of March 1, 2002 the license fee is $60 for 4 years, both initially and for each renewal. There is no fee for this examination.

The manual you need to study is:

Please make note of this information. Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

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Raw Agricultural Commodity Fumigation

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Raw Agricultural Commodity Fumigation Category

This certification requires a passing grade (70%) on the Raw Agricultural Commodity Fumigation Exam and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 4 CEUs. As of March 1, 2002 the license fee is $160 for 4 years, both initially and for each renewal. There is no fee for this examination.

The manuals you need to study are:

Please make note of this information. Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

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Right-Of-Way

The Florida Right-Of-Way Pesticide License is available either as a Public certification, for those applicators who apply pesticides to road, railroad or power line right-of-ways, and that work for federal, state, county or municipal public agencies, or as a Commercial certification for contractors.

The Florida Right-Of-Way Pesticide Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%), and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 12 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

A helpful resource is the UF/IFAS publication Licensing of Right-of-Way Pesticide Applicators in Florida

Costs

Test: Free
License:
$100 for Public category
$250 for Commercial category
License Renewal:
$100 for Public category
$250 for Commercial category

Renewal Information

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 12 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 8 CEUsin the Right-Of-Way category

    plus
  • 4 CEUsin the CORE

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Compliance Monitoring (BCM), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-488-8731, or by fax at 850-488-8498, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

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Study Manual Information

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.

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Soil & Greenhouse

The Florida Soil & Greenhouse Pesticide License is available either as a Public certification, for those applicators that apply pesticides to Soils and Greenhouses and that work for federal, state, county or municipal public agencies, or as a Commercialcertification for contractors who apply pesticides to Soils and Greenhouses.

The Florida Soil & Greenhouse Pesticide Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%), and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam.Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 8 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

A helpful resource is the UF/IFAS publication Licensing of Soil and Greenhouse Fumigation Applicators in Florida

Costs

Test: Free
License
$100 for Public category
$250 for Commercial category
License Renewal
$100 for Public category
$250 for Commercial category

Renewal Information

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 8 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 4 CEUsin the Soil & Greenhouse category

    plus
  • 4 CEUsin the CORE

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Compliance Monitoring (BCM), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-488-8731, or by fax at 850-488-8498, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

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Study Manual Information

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.

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Wood Treatment

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Wood Treatment Category.

This certification requires a passing grade (70%) on the Wood Treatment Exam and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 4 CEUs.As of March 1, 2002 the license fee is $160 for 4 years, both initially and for each renewal. There is no fee for this examination.

The manuals you need to study are:

Please make note of this information. Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.


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Which Pesticide License Do You Need?

The following will help you figure out:

  • Which pesticide license do you need?
  • Which test is required?
  • What manuals do you need to study.
  • What passing grade is required?
  • Are there any limitations on the certification?
  • What are the renewal requirements of your license?

The laws can be somewhat complex and vague at times. This document cannot answer all questions. If in doubt, consult the Pesticide Applicator Certification and Licensing in Florida [436KB pdf] published by Florida Division of Agricultural Environmental Services (FDACS). Call (850) 488-3314 to obtain a copy of this publication. For clarification, contact either the Bureau of Compliance Monitoring (BCM) at (850) 617-7870, or the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC) at (850) 921-4177 - whichever is appropriate, in Tallahassee.

Pesticide Certification Decision Questions

The following questions and answers are intended to help potential applicators determine specifically which certification they require.

1. Do you work for a public agency?

Yes Continue to Question #3
No Continue to Question #2

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2. What type of Property are you spraying? Private or Commercial?

Private property owned by you or your employer (does NOT include contractors for-hire). Continue to Question #5
Private property owned by a person or business other than yourself or your employer (includes contractors for-hire and wood treatment). Continue to Question #4
Public property owned by the public and administered by a Local, State or Federal Agency. Continue to Question #4

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3. What type of Public Site are you treating?

Agriculture Continue to Question #7
Aquatic (herbicides only) Go to Answer A Aquatic
Forest Go to Answer B Forest
Marine paint for boats & other structures Go to Answer C Organotin Antifouling Paint
Mosquito Control Go to Answer D Public Health
Natural Area Go to Answer EE Natural Areas
Right-Of-Way Go to Answer E Right of Way
Structural or Interior pest control Go to Answer F Limited Structural
Turf & Landscape around or near public buildings Go to Answer G Limited Lawn & Ornamental
Turf & landscape at golf courses, parks & cemeteries ONLY Go to Answer H Ornamental & Turf
Wood treatment Go to Answer CC Wood Treatment

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4. What type of Commercial Site are you treating?

Aquatic (herbicides only) Go to Answer I Aquatic
Agricultural (farm, ranch, grove, etc) Continue to Question #6
Forest Go to Answer J Forest
Marine paint for boats & other structures Go to Answer K Organotin Antifouling Paint
Natural Area Go to Answer DD Natural Areas
Right-Of-Way Go to Answer L Commerical Right-of-Way
Structural or interior pest control Go to Answer M Pest Control Operator Certification in the General Household Category
Landscape shrubs/ beds only (no turf) Go to Answer N Limited Commercial Landscape Maintenance Certification
Turf & landscape Go to Answer O Pest Control Operator Certification in the Lawn & Ornamental Category
Wood treatment Go to Answer W Limited Lawn & Ornamental

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5. What type of Private Site are you treating?

Structural or Interior pest control Go to Answer F Limited Structural
Turf & Landscape pest control Go to Answer G
Other privately owned or rented (by the client or client's employer) property - i.e. farm, ranch, grove, nursery, etc. Go to Answer P Private Certification in the Private Applicator Category

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6. What type of Site are you treating?

Agriculture Animals Go to Answer Q Agriculture Animals
Agriculture Row Crop Go to Answer R Agriculture Row Crop
Agriculture Tree Crop Go to Answer S Agriculture Tree Crop
Raw Agricultural Commodity Fumigation Go to Answer T Agriculture Tree Crop
Soil & Greenhouse Fumigation Go to Answer V Soil & Greenhouse Fumigation

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7. What type of Public Agriculture Site are you treating?

Agriculture Animals Go to Answer X Agriculture Animals
Agriculture Row Crop Go to Answer Y Agriculture Row Crop
Agriculture Tree Crop Go to Answer Z Agriculture Tree Crop
Raw Agricultural Commodity Fumigation Go to Answer AA Raw Agricultural Commodity Fumigation
Soil & Greenhouse Fumigation Go to Answer BB Soil & Greenhouse Fumigation

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Pesticide Certification Details

Pesticide Certification Decision Answers

Answer A

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Public Certification in the Aquatic Category.

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Answer B

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Public Certification in the Forest Category.

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Answer C

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Public Certification in the Organotin Antifouling Paint Category.

This certification requires a passing grade (70%) on the Organotin Antifouling Paint Exam. You do not need to take the General Standards (CORE) Exam. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 4 CEUs. As of March 1, 2002 the license fee is $60 for 4 years, both initially and for each renewal. There is no fee for this examination.

The manual you need to study is:

Please make note of this information. Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

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Answer D

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Public Certification in the Public Health Category.

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Answer E

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Public Certification in the Right-Of-Way Category.

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Answer F

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Limited Structural Certification.

Answer G

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Limited Lawn & Ornamental Certification.

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Answer H

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Public Certification in the Ornamental & Turf Category.

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Answer I

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Aquatic Category.

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Answer J

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Forest Category.

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Answer K

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Organotin Antifouling PaintCategory.

This certification requires a passing grade (70%) on the Organotin Antifouling Paint Exam. You do not need to take the General Standards (CORE) Exam. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 4 CEUs. As of March 1, 2002 the license fee is $160 for 4 years, both initially and for each renewal. There is no fee for this examination.

The manual you need to study is:

Please make note of this information. Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

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Answer L

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Right-Of-Way Category.

Answer M

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Pest Control Operator Certification in the General Household Category.

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Answer N

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Limited Commercial Landscape Maintenance Certification.

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Answer O

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Pest Control Operator Certification in the Lawn & Ornamental Category.

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Answer P

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Private Certification in the Private Applicator Category.

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Answer Q

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Agriculture Animals Category.

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Answer R

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Agriculture Row Crop Category.

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Answer S

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Agriculture Tree Crop Category.

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Answer T

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Raw Agricultural Commodity Fumigation Category

This certification requires a passing grade (70%) on the Raw Agricultural Commodity Fumigation Exam and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 4 CEUs. As of March 1, 2002 the license fee is $160 for 4 years, both initially and for each renewal. There is no fee for this examination.

The manuals you need to study are:

Please make note of this information. Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

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Answer V

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Soil & Greenhouse Fumigation Category (view complete details).

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Answer W

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Wood Treatment Category.

This certification requires a passing grade (70%) on the Wood Treatment Exam and a passing grade (70%) on the GeneralStandards (CORE) Exam. This certification  must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 4 CEUs.As of March 1, 2002 the license fee is $160 for 4 years, both initially and for each renewal. There is no fee for this examination.

The manuals you need to study are:

Please make note of this information. Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

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Answer X

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Public Certification in the Agriculture Animals Category(view complete details).

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Answer Y

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Public Certification in the Agriculture Row Crop Category(view complete details).

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Answer Z

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Public Certification in the Agriculture Tree Crop Category(view complete details).

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Answer AA

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Raw Agricultural Commodity Fumigation Category

This certification requires a passing grade (70%) on the Raw Agricultural Commodity Fumigation Exam and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 4 CEUs. As of March 1, 2002 the license fee is $160 for 4 years, both initially and for each renewal. There is no fee for this examination.

The manuals you need to study are:

Please make note of this information. Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

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Answer BB

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Public Certification in the Soil & Greenhouse FumigationCategory (view complete details).

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Answer CC

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Wood Treatment Category.

This certification requires a passing grade (70%) on the Wood Treatment Exam and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 4 CEUs.As of March 1, 2002 the license fee is $160 for 4 years, both initially and for each renewal. There is no fee for this examination.

The manuals you need to study are:

Please make note of this information. Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

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Answer DD

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Natural Areas.

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Answer EE

The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Public Certification in the Natural Areas Category.

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Licensing and Certifications

Aerial  Natural Areas 
Agriculture Animal  Ornamental & Turf 
Agriculture Row Crop  Natural Areas 
Agriculture Tree Crop  Pest Control Operator 
Aquatic  Private Applicator 
Forest  Public Health 
Limited Commercial Maintenance  Right-Of-Way 
Limited Lawn & Ornamental  Soil & Greenhouse 
Limited Structural   


Aerial Pesticide License

The Florida Aerial Pesticide License is available either as a Public certification, for those applicators that apply pesticides by air and that work for federal, state, county or municipal public agencies, or as a Commercial certification for contractors for apply by air.

The Florida Aerial Pesticide Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%), and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

A helpful resource is the UF/IFAS publication Requirements of Aerial Applicators in Florida

Costs

Testing: Free

License Application: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

License Renewal: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

Renewal

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 20 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 16 CEUs in the Aerial category

    plus
  • 4 CEUs in the CORE category.

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

Study Materials

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.

These materials are also available on a walk-in basis at the Hillsborough County Extension Office. Call ahead to be sure of availability.



Agriculture Animal
Florida Pesticide License

The Florida Agricultural Animal Pesticide License is available either as a Public certification, for those applicators that apply pesticides to row crops and that work for federal, state, county or municipal public agencies, or as a Commercial certification for contractors.

The Florida Agricultural Animal Pesticide Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%), and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 8 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

A helpful resource is the UF/IFAS publication Licensing of Agricultural Animal Pesticide Applicators in Florida

Costs

Testing: Free

License Application: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

License Renewal: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

Renewal

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 8 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 4 CEUs in the Ag Animal category

    plus
  • 4 CEUs in the CORE category.

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

Study Materials

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.

These materials are also available on a walk-in basis at the Hillsborough County Extension Office. Call ahead to be sure of availability.


Agriculture Row Crop

The Florida Agricultural Row Crop Pesticide License is available either as a Public certification, for those applicators that apply pesticides to row crops and that work for federal, state, county or municipal public agencies, or as a Commercial certification for contractors.

The Florida Agricultural Row Crop Pesticide Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%), and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 16 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

A helpful resource is the UF/IFAS publication Licensing of Agricultural Row Crop Pesticide Applicators in Florida

Costs

Testing: Free

License Application: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

License Renewal: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

Renewal

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 16 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 8 CEUsin the Ag Row Crop category

    plus
  • 4 CEUsin the CORE

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

These materials are also available on a walk-in basis at the Hillsborough County Extension Office. Call ahead to be sure of availability.

Study Materials

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.


Agriculture Tree Crop

The Florida Agricultural Tree Crop Pesticide License is available either as a Public certification, for those applicators that apply pesticides to row crops and that work for federal, state, county or municipal public agencies, or as a Commercialcertification for contractors.

The Florida Agricultural Tree Crop Pesticide Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%), and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam.Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 12 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

A helpful resource is the UF/IFAS publication Licensing of Agricultural Tree Crop Pesticide Applicators in Florida

 

Costs

Testing: Free

License Application: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

License Renewal: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

Renewal

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 12 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 8 CEUsin the Ag Tree Crop category

    plus
  • 4 CEUsin the CORE

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

Study Materials

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.

These materials are also available on a walk-in basis at the Hillsborough County Extension Office. Call ahead to be sure of availability.


Aquatic

The Florida Aquatic Pesticide License is available either as a Public certification, for those applicators that apply herbicides to bodies of water and that work for federal, state, county or municipal public agencies, or as a Commercial certification for contractors for aquatic pesticide work.

The Florida Aquatic Pesticide Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%), and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

A helpful resource is the UF/IFAS publication Licensing of Aquatic Herbicide Applicators in Florida

 

Costs

Testing: Free

License Application: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

License Renewal: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

Renewal

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 20 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 16 CEUsin the Aquatic category

    plus
  • 4 CEUsin the CORE

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

Study Materials

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.

These materials are also available on a walk-in basis at the Hillsborough County Extension Office. Call ahead to be sure of availability.


Forest

The Florida Forest Pesticide License is available either as a Public certification, for those applicators that apply pesticides to row crops and that work for federal, state, county or municipal public agencies, or as a Commercial certification for contractors.

The Florida Agricultural Tree Crop Pesticide Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%), and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 12 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

A helpful resource is the UF/IFAS publication Licensing of Forest Pesticide Applicators in Florida

 

Costs

Testing: Free

License Application: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

License Renewal: $100 for Public category,  $250 for Commercial category

Renewal

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 12 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 8 CEUsin the Forest category

    plus
  • 4 CEUsin the CORE

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

Study Materials

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.

These materials are also available on a walk-in basis at the Hillsborough County Extension Office. Call ahead to be sure of availability.

Forest Pest Control (SM-43)


Limited Commercial Maintenance

The Florida Limited Commercial Maintenance License is available only for Landscape Maintenance Contractorsapplying pesticides to their customers' properties. This license is sometimes incorrectly called the "Roundup License". In fact this license can be used for much more than the herbicide, Roundup®. Products are limited to "Caution" labels only, not "Warning" or "Danger" labels. Applications are limited to beds and shrubs, not turf. Application equipment is limited to backpacks and handheld pump-up sprayers; not powered equipment.

This certification no longer requires documentation of 3 years experience in Landscape Maintenance. Each applicator must be licensed and may not supervise other applicators. Six hours of training, an application, and proof of insurance is required.  See complete details for the Limited Certification Application Instructions for Commercial Landscape Maintenance (216KB pdf).

Note: the application has not yet been changed to reflect changes in license requirements; the documentation of experience is no longer required.

The Florida Limited Commercial Maintenance License Exam requires a passing grade (75%). This certification must be renewed annually either by testing or with 4 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the Extension Office in your county to determine if they offer Exam Prep Classes for this license; or check the Calendar of Events for upcoming training in the Hillsborough County area.

 

Costs

Exam

$150

License

Free

Renewal

$75 (if recertifying with CEUs; $150 if recertifying by reexamination)

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Renewal Information

The Renewal period is annually. 4 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal. Any combination of Limited Commercial CEUs and CORE CEUs is acceptable.

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

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Helpful Publications

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Study Manual Information

These test study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by orderingonline or by calling 1-800-226-1764. If you order with a credit card, you should receive the books within 4-5 business days.


Limited Lawn & Ornamental

The Florida Limited Lawn & Ornamental License, also known as the "Limited L&O License", is available only to employees on private property (in-house maintenance crews) and employees of government agencies who make pesticide applications to the turf and ornamental areas of the property.

See complete details for the Limited Lawn and Ornamental Application linked to the right application above).

The Florida Limited Lawn & Ornamental License Exam requires a passing grade (75%). This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 4 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the Extension Office in your county to determine if they offer Exam Prep Classes for this license; or check the Calendar of Events for upcoming training in the Hillsborough County area.

Costs

Exam
$150

License
Free

Renewal

$25 (if recertifing with CEUs; $150 if recertifying by reexamination)

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Renewal Information

The Renewal period is 4 years. 4 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal. Any combination of Limited Lawn & Ornamental CEUs and CORE CEUs is acceptable.

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

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Helpful Publications

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Study Manual Information

These test study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by orderingonline or by calling 1-800-226-1764. If you order with a credit card, you should receive the books within 4-5 business days.


Limited Structural

The Florida Limited Structural License is available only to employees on private property (in-house maintenance crews) and employees of government agencies who make pesticide applications in, on, around or under structures.

See complete details for the Limited Certification Application Instructions for Commercial Landscape Maintenance (216KB pdf).

The Florida Limited Structural License Exam requires a passing grade (75%). This certification must be renewed every 4 yearseither by testing or with 4 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the Extension Office in your county to determine if they offer Exam Prep Classes for this license; or check the Calendar of Events for upcoming training in the Hillsborough County area.

Costs

Exam

$150

License

Free

Renewal

$25 (if recertifying with CEUs; $150 if recertifying by reexamination)

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Renewal Information

This certification must be renewed every 4 years. 4 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal. Any combination of Limited Structural CEUs and CORE CEUs is acceptable.

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

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Helpful Publications

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Study Manual Information

These test study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. If you order with a credit card, you should receive the books within 4-5 business days.

General Household Pest Control Applicator Training Manual (SM-47).


Natural Areas

The Florida Natural Areas Pesticide License is available either as a Public certification, for those applicators that apply pesticides to dry natural areas and that work for federal, state, county or municipal public agencies, or as a Commercialcertification for contractors.

The Florida Natural Areas Pesticide Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%), and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. Please see Core Exam FAQ.This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

Helpful resources are UF/IFAS publications: Licensing of Natural Areas Pesticide Applicators in Florida 
Study questions for the Certified Pesticide Applicator Exam: Natural Areas Weed Management

Costs

Test

Free

License

$100 for Public category
$250 for Commercial category

License Renewal

$100 for Public category
$250 for Commercial category

Renewal Information

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 20 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 16 CEUsin the Natural Areas category

    plus
  • 4 CEUsin the CORE

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Compliance Monitoring (BCM), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-488-8731, or by fax at 850-488-8498, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

Study Manual Information

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.

These materials are also available on a walk-in basis at the Hillsborough County Extension Office. Call ahead to be sure of availability.


Ornamental & Turf

The Florida Ornamental & Turf Pesticide License, also known as the "O&T License", is available either as a Publiccertification, for those applicators that apply herbicides to golf courses, parks and cemeteries and that work for federal, state, county or municipal public agencies, or as a Commercialcertification for contractors to apply pesticides in those same areas.

The Florida Ornamental & Turf Pesticide Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%), and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 16 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

Helpful resources are the UF/IFAS publications: Licensing of Lawn and Ornamental Pesticide Applicators in Florida 
Posting of Lawn and Ornamental Pesticide Applications

 

Costs                    

Test

Free

License

$100 for Public category
$250 for Commercial category

License Renewal

$100 for Public category
$250 for Commercial category

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Renewal Information

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 16 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 12 CEUsin the Ornamental & Turf category

    plus
  • 4 CEUsin the CORE

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

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Study Manual Information

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.


Pest Control Operator

The Florida Pest Control Operator License, is available only to Commercial Contractors applying pesticides to their customers' properties. This certification is only available to those with documentation of 3 years experience working "under" someone with the same category of this certification. There are 4 different categories within this certification: General Household Pest (GHP), Lawn & Ornamental (L&O), Termite, and Fumigation.

The Florida Pest Control Operator Certification Exam requires a passing grade (75%). This certification must be renewed annually either by testing or with 2 CORE Continuing Education Units (CEUs) plus 2 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) per category.

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing. Exam Prep Classes may be available in your area.

 

Costs

Exam

$300

Certification Fee

$150

Renewal

$150

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Renewal Information

The Renewal period is annually. Renewal is due by June 1st of each year. After July 1st, there will be a $50.00 late fee. The license cannot be renewed after 180 days beyond June 1st. 4 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

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Study Materials

The study materials vary according to which of the four catergories within this certificaton is being pursued. For a complete listing of materials see Florida Pest Control Operator Exam Dates and Information


Private Applicator

The Florida Private Applicator License, is available only to private individuals applying pesticides to their own property or to property rented, leased to them or to their employer.

The Florida Private Applicator Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%) on the Private Applicator Exam and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 8 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

A helpful resource is the UF/IFAS publication Licensing of Private Pesticide Applicators in Florida

 

Costs

Test

Free

License

$100

License Renewal

$100

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Renewal Information

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 8 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 4 CEUsin each appropriate category

    plus
  • 4 CEUsin the CORE

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Compliance Monitoring (BCM), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-488-8731, or by fax at 850-488-8498, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

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Study Manual Information

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.


Public Health

This license is also known as the mosquito control license and is required for Mosquito and Biting Fly Control pesticide applicators.

The Florida Public Health Pesticide License, also known as the "Mosquito Control License" is required for Mosquito and Biting Fly Control pesticide applicators.

The Florida Public Health Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%) and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 16 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

A helpful resource is the UF/IFAS publication Licensing of Public Health Pest Control Applicators in Florida

 

Costs

Test

Free

License

Free

License Renewal

Free

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Renewal Information

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 16 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Entomology & Pest Control (BEPC), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-921-4177, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

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Study Manual Information

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.

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Florida Pesticide Testing Information

Both of the required exams may be taken at your local county extension service office or the Bureau's Headquarters in Tallahassee, at any of the twelve regional entomologist / inspectors located throughout the State, and at certification workshops that are held regionally during the Spring.

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine if they offer Exam Prep Classes for this license


Right-Of-Way

The Florida Right-Of-Way Pesticide License is available either as a Public certification, for those applicators who apply pesticides to road, railroad or power line right-of-ways, and that work for federal, state, county or municipal public agencies, or as a Commercial certification for contractors.

The Florida Right-Of-Way Pesticide Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%), and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam. Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 12 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

A helpful resource is the UF/IFAS publication Licensing of Right-of-Way Pesticide Applicators in Florida

 

Costs

Test

Free

License

$100 for Public category
$250 for Commercial category

License Renewal

$100 for Public category
$250 for Commercial category

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Renewal Information

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 12 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 8 CEUsin the Right-Of-Way category

    plus
  • 4 CEUsin the CORE

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Compliance Monitoring (BCM), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-488-8731, or by fax at 850-488-8498, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

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Study Manual Information

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.


Soil & Greenhouse

The Florida Soil & Greenhouse Pesticide License is available either as a Public certification, for those applicators that apply pesticides to Soils and Greenhouses and that work for federal, state, county or municipal public agencies, or as a Commercialcertification for contractors who apply pesticides to Soils and Greenhouses.

The Florida Soil & Greenhouse Pesticide Certification Exam requires a passing grade (70%), and a passing grade (70%) on the General Standards (CORE) Exam.Please see Core Exam FAQ. This certification must be renewed every 4 years either by testing or with 8 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.

A helpful resource is the UF/IFAS publication Licensing of Soil and Greenhouse Fumigation Applicators in Florida

 

Costs

Test

Free

License

$100 for Public category
$250 for Commercial category

License Renewal

$100 for Public category
$250 for Commercial category

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Renewal Information

The Renewal period is every 4 years. 8 total Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are needed for renewal:

  • 4 CEUsin the Soil & Greenhouse category

    plus
  • 4 CEUsin the CORE

Note: 1 CEU equals 50 minutes of classroom time.

This is a State of Florida certification issued by the Bureau of Compliance Monitoring (BCM), a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). If you need more information or have a problem, call the Bureau at 850-488-8731, or by fax at 850-488-8498, 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday.

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Study Manual Information

These study manuals are available from the IFAS Bookstore in Gainesville, either by ordering online or by calling 1-800-226-1764. Credit card orders should arrive in 4-5 days.


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Contact Our Agents

Commercial Horticulture / IPM
Susan Haddock

Phone (813) 744-5519

View Staff Directory

Address
5339 County Rd. 579
Seffner, FL 33584-3334

Directions to Our Office

Hours
Monday-Friday
8am – 5pm

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