Frequently Asked Certification Questions
Do I need to be a certified pesticide applicator?
Certification as a commercial or public applicator is required if...
How do I become certified?
To become certified as a commercial or public applicator, you must pass two written examinations...
What commercial/public category do I need?
For a general description see the Pennsylvania Code or call your Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture regional office.
How do I become a Certified Home Inspector?
Unfortunately, the Pesticide Education Program does not deal with Home Inspectors or their certification. However...
How much does it cost to become certified and stay certified?
The current fees are as follows:
Are study materials available to help prepare for the exams?
Study materials for examinations are available for a fee from The Pennsylvania State University...
Are the exams open or closed book?
The core exam for public/commercial applicators is closed book...
How long are the exams?
You will have three hours to take the core and/or as many category exams as you can finish. However...
Where and when are the exams given?
When you are ready to take the exam(s), check the PaPlants Certification Exam Search page for dates and locations...
What should I bring to the exam?
On the day of the exam, make sure you bring the following:
When will I know if I passed or failed the exam?
The Pesticide Education Program does not have access to exam results. The exams are given by and scored by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture...
How do I get a reciprocal license for Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania accepts initial reciprocity with all borderline states, in addition to many other states...
With what states does Pennsylvania have reciprocity agreements?
Pennsylvania has reciprocity with the following states...
Can I take the exams online?
Currently, Pennsylvania does not have the capabilities to provide this service...
How do I keep my certification?
To maintain pesticide certification, applicators must accumulate update training at three year intervals...
How do I convert my commercial/public certifcation to a private certification?
Individuals with valid commercial or public pesticide certification are eligible for obtaining a private certification...
What is a Registered Technician?
Registered Technicians are applicators who have received training as required under...
I live in what Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Region?
To find the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Regional Office nearest you...


