Does Florida require a pest control license?

Florida requires pest control technicians to get approved for the appropriate licensing.

Are there different types of licenses for Florida?

The different types of pest control licenses in Florida are:

• Certified pest control business operator license
• Limited governmental or private applicator license
• Commercial landscape maintenance applicator license
• Limited urban fertilizer applicator license
• Limited commercial wildlife management license

The pest control business operator license is required for individuals who own pest control businesses. You must acquire this license before you enter the business by transfer or startup. New certified pest control business operator licenses cost $310.

The limited governmental or private applicator license (structural pest control and lawn/ornamental pest control) is for individuals who are employed by private pest control companies or government agencies. With this license, you have the authority to use restricted and general materials. The cost is $150 for each structural pest control and lawn/ornamental pest control license.

The commercial landscape applicator license gives commercial landscapers authority to apply pesticides to plant beds and ornamental plants. Authorized commercial buildings include schools, banks, grocery stores, hotels, restaurants, apartment buildings, and condominium common areas. The cost for this license is $150.

The limited fertilizer applicator license gives licensees the authority to apply restricted use pesticides as the owner of a private property or government employee. The application fee for this license is $150.

The limited commercial wildlife management license gives licensees the authority to trap rodents without the use of pesticides. This license costs $150.

The average yearly pay for Florida pest control technicians is approximately $32,889.

How do I become licensed for pest control in Florida?

Pest control technicians do not have to attend school to obtain their licenses. You will have to apply for a Florida pest control license with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. There are a few programs that provide training for pest control technicians.

Training programs:

• Pest Control Training Headquarters
• All Star Training – Florida Pest Control Continuous Education
• Florida Pest Management Association

Tuition Costs:

Expect to pay between $15 (online options) and $200 per course.

Prerequisites:

• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Be at least 18 years old
• Possess a Florida driver’s license
• Be physically able to perform the job

On-the-Job Experience:

• Apply pesticides to residential and commercial properties
• Eliminate termites, bugs, and other pests using restricted chemicals
• Work under the supervision of a Florida licensed pest control technician
• Develop and maintain customer relationships

Licensing Board Information:

Florida pest control licenses are issued by Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

Examination Requirements:

Applicants must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED. Applicants are required to take an exam for each license. Fees are $75 – $200 per test.

Examination Resources:

• Pest Control Exam Prep
• Certified Training Institute

How to use your pest control license to get a job

Residential and commercial property owners need pest control technicians. Local and national pest control companies are looking for technicians who are ready to get licensed and work with their customers.

The hourly Florida pest control technician pay rate is $18.47.

Take at look at the following career sites to find a pest control technician job in Florida.

• Indeed
• CareerBuilder
• Glassdoor

Prepare for your Florida pest control technician job interview by reviewing these common interview questions.

• What are your goals for working in this industry?
• What makes you a good team member for this company?
• What are your strengths?
• Do you mind if we run a background check on you?
• Why should we consider you for this position?

Wear business casual clothing to your interviews. Bring a copy of your resume, social security card, and driver’s license to your pest control technician interview.

Pest control industry trends

The pest control industry is constantly changing. Current pest control industry trends include:

• Targeting customers in a variety of areas
• Providing automated billing and scheduling services to improve the customer experience
• Reviewing and impacting new pest control legislation
• Identifying the habits of pests in the area
• Using eco-friendly pesticides
• Teaching customers how to prevent pest infestations

Dangers of being a pest control technician

Florida pest control technicians work with hazardous chemicals on every project. These pesticides must be used carefully because they are harmful to your health.

Pesticides cause skin infections, oral sores, lung problems, malignancies, and asthma. In Florida, pests such as scorpions, snakes, and spiders are dangerous. They will bite and sting you.

Injury prevention precautions for pest control technicians:

• Wear protective clothing.
• Wear respiratory protection equipment.
• Read and follow the directions when applying pesticides.

Is my pest control license only valid in Florida?

Florida has limited reciprocity agreements with Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Indiana, and Mississippi.

How often do I need to renew my pest control license in Florida?

Florida pest control licenses must be renewed every four years. Renewal fees range from $100 – $300.