Florida Pesticide Licensing & CEUs
- Pesticide Certification Section Chapter 487
- Structural Pest Control Chapter 482
- Public Health Chapter 388
- Exam study materials
- Exam preparation classes
- Apply for and schedule exam
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 |
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 |
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) |
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) |
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) |
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) |
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) |
Florida Pesticide Licenses and Certifications
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE) (SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Aerial Application (Aerial Category Exam) (SM-41).
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE) (SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Agricultural Pest Control: Animals (Agriculture Animal Cateogry Exam) (SM-2).
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1), Also called the "CORE Manual"
- Agricultural Row Crop Pest Control(SM-5)
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Agriculture Tree Crop Pest Control (Agriculture Tree Crop Exam)(SM-63).
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Aquatic Pest Control Training Manual (Aquatic Category Exam)(SM-3).
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- 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)
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
- Licensing of Lawn and Ornamental Pesticide Applicators in Florida
- Posting of Lawn and Ornamental Pesticide Applications
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Ornamental and Turfgrass Pest Management (Ornamental and Turf; Lawn and Ornamental Exams) (SM-7)..
- The 2008 Florida Statutes, Chapter 482: Structural Pest Control Act
- Florida Administrative Code, Chapter 5E-14: Entomology - Pest Control Regulations
Note: you only need 5E-14, not 5E-13 (or anything before that) or 5E-15 (or anything after that).
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.
Helpful Publications
- Licensing of Lawn and Ornamental Pesticide Applicators in Florida
- Posting of Lawn and Ornamental Pesticide Applications
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Ornamental and Turfgrass Pest Management (Ornamental and Turf; Lawn and Ornamental Exams)(SM-7).
- The 2008 Florida Statutes, Chapter 482: Structural Pest Control Act
- Florida Administrative Code, Chapter 5E-14: Entomology - Pest Control Regulations
Note: you only need 5E-14, not 5E-13 (or anything before that) or 5E-15 (or anything after that).
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.
Helpful Publications
- The 2008 Florida Statutes, Chapter 482: Structural Pest Control Act
- Florida Administrative Code, Chapter 5E-14: Entomology - Pest Control Regulations
Note: you only need 5E-14, not 5E-13 (or anything before that) or 5E-15 (or anything after that). - Licensing of Structural Pesticide Applicators in Florida
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- 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: FreeRenewal
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Control of Non-native Plants in Natural Areas of Florida(SP-242).
- Natural Area Weed Management(SP-295).
- Study Questions for the Certified Pesticide Applicator Examination: Natural Areas Weed Management(156KB pdf)
- Identification and Biology of NonNative Plants in Florida's Natural Areas (SP257).
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
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.
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Spray Equipment and Calibration(SM-38).
- Ornamental and Turfgrass Pest Management (Ornamental and Turf; Lawn and Ornamental Exams)(SM-7).
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.
- Florida Pest Control Operator Certification Exam Dates and Times
- 2 CEUsin each appropriate category
plus - 2 CEUsin the CORE
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
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.
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Private Applicator Agricultural Pest Control (CORE)(SM-53).
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:
- 16 CEUsin the Public Health
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Public Health Pesticide Applicator Training manual (SP-318)
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.
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
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:
- Organotin Antifouling Paint Manual (SM-042). $5.00.
Please make note of this information. Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.
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:
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE) (SM-1). $20.00. Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Raw Agricultural Commodity Fumigation (Raw Agricultural Commodity Fumigation Exam) (SM-66 ). $5.00
Please make note of this information. Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.
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: FreeRenewal 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.
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Right-Of-Way Pest Control (SM-9).
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$250 for Commercial 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.
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Soil Fumigation (Soil and Greenhouse Fumigation Exam)(SM-61).
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:
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE) (SM-1). $20.00. Also called the "CORE Manual".
- The Preservation of Wood (Wood Treatment Exam) (SM-32). $8.00.
Please make note of this information. Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.
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 |
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 |
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 |
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 |
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 |
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 |
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 |
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.
Answer B
The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Public Certification in the Forest Category.
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:
- Organotin Antifouling Paint Manual (SM-042). $5.00.
Please make note of this information. Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.
Answer D
The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Public Certification in the Public Health Category.
Answer E
The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Public Certification in the Right-Of-Way Category.
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.
Answer H
The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Public Certification in the Ornamental & Turf Category.
Answer I
The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Aquatic Category.
Answer J
The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Forest Category.
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:
- Organotin Antifouling Paint Manual (SM-042). $5.00.
Please make note of this information. Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.
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.
Answer N
The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Limited Commercial Landscape Maintenance Certification.
Answer O
The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Pest Control Operator Certification in the Lawn & Ornamental Category.
Answer P
The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Private Certification in the Private Applicator Category.
Answer Q
The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Agriculture Animals Category.
Answer R
The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Agriculture Row Crop Category.
Answer S
The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Agriculture Tree Crop Category.
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:
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE) (SM-1). $20.00. Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Raw Agricultural Commodity Fumigation (Raw Agricultural Commodity Fumigation Exam) (SM-66 ). $5.00
Please make note of this information. Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.
Answer V
The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Soil & Greenhouse Fumigation Category (view complete details).
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:
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE) (SM-1). $20.00. Also called the "CORE Manual".
- The Preservation of Wood (Wood Treatment Exam) (SM-32). $8.00.
Please make note of this information. Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.
Answer X
The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Public Certification in the Agriculture Animals Category(view complete details).
Answer Y
The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Public Certification in the Agriculture Row Crop Category(view complete details).
Answer Z
The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Public Certification in the Agriculture Tree Crop Category(view complete details).
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:
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE) (SM-1). $20.00. Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Raw Agricultural Commodity Fumigation (Raw Agricultural Commodity Fumigation Exam) (SM-66 ). $5.00
Please make note of this information. Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.
Answer BB
The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Public Certification in the Soil & Greenhouse FumigationCategory (view complete details).
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:
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE) (SM-1). $20.00. Also called the "CORE Manual".
- The Preservation of Wood (Wood Treatment Exam) (SM-32). $8.00.
Please make note of this information. Contact the County Extension Office in your county to determine the dates and times of pesticide testing.
Answer DD
The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Commercial Certification in the Natural Areas.
Answer EE
The type of pesticide application that you have indicated requires a Public Certification in the Natural Areas Category.
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE) (SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Aerial Application (Aerial Category Exam) (SM-41).
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE) (SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Agricultural Pest Control: Animals (Agriculture Animal Cateogry Exam) (SM-2).
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1), Also called the "CORE Manual"
- Agricultural Row Crop Pest Control(SM-5)
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Agriculture Tree Crop Pest Control (Agriculture Tree Crop Exam)(SM-63).
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Aquatic Pest Control Training Manual (Aquatic Category Exam)(SM-3).
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
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)
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.
Helpful Publications
- Licensing of Lawn and Ornamental Pesticide Applicators in Florida
- Posting of Lawn and Ornamental Pesticide Applications
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Ornamental and Turfgrass Pest Management (Ornamental and Turf; Lawn and Ornamental Exams) (SM-7)..
- The 2008 Florida Statutes, Chapter 482: Structural Pest Control Act
- Florida Administrative Code, Chapter 5E-14: Entomology - Pest Control Regulations
Note: you only need 5E-14, not 5E-13 (or anything before that) or 5E-15 (or anything after that).
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 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.
Helpful Publications
- Licensing of Lawn and Ornamental Pesticide Applicators in Florida
- Posting of Lawn and Ornamental Pesticide Applications
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Ornamental and Turfgrass Pest Management (Ornamental and Turf; Lawn and Ornamental Exams)(SM-7).
- The 2008 Florida Statutes, Chapter 482: Structural Pest Control Act
- Florida Administrative Code, Chapter 5E-14: Entomology - Pest Control Regulations
Note: you only need 5E-14, not 5E-13 (or anything before that) or 5E-15 (or anything after that).
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 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.
Helpful Publications
- The 2008 Florida Statutes, Chapter 482: Structural Pest Control Act
- Florida Administrative Code, Chapter 5E-14: Entomology - Pest Control Regulations
Note: you only need 5E-14, not 5E-13 (or anything before that) or 5E-15 (or anything after that). - Licensing of Structural Pesticide Applicators in Florida
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Control of Non-native Plants in Natural Areas of Florida(SP-242).
- Natural Area Weed Management(SP-295).
- Study Questions for the Certified Pesticide Applicator Examination: Natural Areas Weed Management(156KB pdf)
- Identification and Biology of NonNative Plants in Florida's Natural Areas (SP257).
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
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.
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Spray Equipment and Calibration(SM-38).
- Ornamental and Turfgrass Pest Management (Ornamental and Turf; Lawn and Ornamental Exams)(SM-7).
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.
- Florida Pest Control Operator Certification Exam Dates and Times
- 2 CEUsin each appropriate category
plus - 2 CEUsin the CORE
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
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.
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Private Applicator Agricultural Pest Control (CORE)(SM-53).
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:
- 16 CEUsin the Public Health
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Public Health Pesticide Applicator Training manual (SP-318)
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.
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
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.
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Right-Of-Way Pest Control (SM-9).
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.
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.
- Applying Pesticides Correctly: A Guide for Pesticide Applicators (CORE)(SM-1). Also called the "CORE Manual".
- Soil Fumigation (Soil and Greenhouse Fumigation Exam)(SM-61).
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