Pest Control Applicator License Requirements

Trades · Low Difficulty · 1-3 months

Live DataLast updated: April 13, 2026·Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics & State Licensing Boards

Verified

Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics & State Licensing BoardsUpdated: 2026 dataHow we compile →

Education

Training Program (40-100 hours)

Required Exam

State Pest Control Exam

Avg Initial Fee

$100

Median Salary

$40,180

Renewal Period

Every 1 year(s)

CE Hours / Cycle

8 hours

Required in All States?

Yes

State-by-State Pest Control Applicator License Requirements

State	Required	Fee	State Wage	Difficulty	CE Hours
Alaska	Yes	$74	$43,530	Low	8
Alabama	Yes	$83	$35,160	Low	8
Arkansas	Yes	$117	$34,900	Low	8
Arizona	Yes	$100	$39,780	Low	8
California	Yes	$75	$48,100	Low	8
Colorado	Yes	$120	$44,990	Low	8
Connecticut	Yes	$106	$45,710	Low	8
District of Columbia	Yes	$88	$49,500	Low	8
Delaware	Yes	$94	$41,200	Low	8
Florida	Yes	$83	$41,220	Low	8
Georgia	Yes	$96	$38,660	Low	8
Hawaii	Yes	$71	$48,050	Low	8
Iowa	Yes	$80	$37,140	Low	8
Idaho	Yes	$81	$39,660	Low	8
Illinois	Yes	$124	$41,930	Low	8
Indiana	Yes	$122	$37,260	Low	8
Kansas	Yes	$90	$38,070	Low	8
Kentucky	Yes	$106	$35,780	Low	8
Louisiana	Yes	$89	$38,110	Low	8
Massachusetts	Yes	$105	$46,450	Low	8
Maryland	Yes	$83	$45,040	Low	8
Maine	Yes	$96	$41,470	Low	8
Michigan	Yes	$98	$39,980	Low	8
Minnesota	Yes	$125	$42,190	Low	8
Missouri	Yes	$82	$37,730	Low	8
Mississippi	Yes	$103	$33,530	Low	8
Montana	Yes	$87	$38,940	Low	8
North Carolina	Yes	$121	$39,870	Low	8
North Dakota	Yes	$72	$38,680	Low	8
Nebraska	Yes	$113	$37,970	Low	8
New Hampshire	Yes	$107	$43,410	Low	8
New Jersey	Yes	$94	$45,750	Low	8
New Mexico	Yes	$79	$37,860	Low	8
Nevada	Yes	$109	$39,490	Low	8
New York	Yes	$71	$46,340	Low	8
Ohio	Yes	$112	$38,790	Low	8
Oklahoma	Yes	$88	$36,590	Low	8
Oregon	Yes	$83	$44,430	Low	8
Pennsylvania	Yes	$125	$40,340	Low	8
Puerto Rico	Yes	$75	$32,830	Low	8
Rhode Island	Yes	$86	$43,780	Low	8
South Carolina	Yes	$96	$38,350	Low	8
South Dakota	Yes	$74	$38,370	Low	8
Tennessee	Yes	$124	$37,630	Low	8
Texas	Yes	$75	$38,970	Low	8
Utah	Yes	$80	$39,780	Low	8
Virginia	Yes	$84	$42,030	Low	8
US Virgin Islands	Yes	$73	$37,520	Low	8
Vermont	Yes	$91	$42,380	Low	8
Washington	Yes	$100	$44,970	Low	8
Wisconsin	Yes	$117	$40,550	Low	8
West Virginia	Yes	$113	$35,610	Low	8
Wyoming	Yes	$128	$37,350	Low	8

Highest Paying States for Pest Control Applicator

District of Columbia$49,500 California$48,100 Hawaii$48,050 Massachusetts$46,450 New York$46,340 New Jersey$45,750

Lowest Fee States for Pest Control Applicator

Hawaii$71 fee New York$71 fee North Dakota$72 fee US Virgin Islands$73 fee Alaska$74 fee South Dakota$74 fee

📊

LicenseWize Editorial TeamData Specialists

The LicenseWize editorial team aggregates and verifies licenses data from Bureau of Labor Statistics & State Licensing Boards. Every statistic on this site is cross-referenced against the official source before publication, with quarterly re-verification cycles.

✓ Sourced from Bureau of Labor Statistics & State Licensing Boards✓ Quarterly review✓ No paid placements

Read our full methodology or contact us with corrections.

Frequently Asked Questions

What trade licenses are required in most states?

The most commonly required trade licenses include Electrician (Journeyman and Master), Plumber (Journeyman and Master), HVAC Technician, and General Contractor. Requirements typically include a combination of classroom training, apprenticeship hours (usually 4,000-8,000 hours), and passing a trade-specific exam.

How much do trade licenses cost?

Trade license fees vary by state and trade. Initial licensing fees typically range from $50-$300. However, the total investment includes apprenticeship program costs ($0-$5,000 for union programs), exam fees ($50-$200), insurance requirements, and tools. The apprenticeship period of 3-5 years is the largest time investment.

Can I work in trades without a license?

Licensing requirements for trades vary significantly by state. Some states require licensure at the state level, while others delegate to municipalities. In many states, you can work under a licensed contractor as an apprentice without your own license. However, performing independent work without proper licensure can result in fines, legal liability, and voided insurance coverage.

Do trade licenses transfer between states?

Trade licenses generally do not have interstate compacts like some healthcare professions. When moving to a new state, you typically need to apply for a new license, though many states offer reciprocity or endorsement pathways that may waive some requirements if you hold a license in good standing from another state. Experience documentation and exam scores may transfer.

How long is a trade apprenticeship?

Trade apprenticeships typically last 3-5 years, depending on the trade and state requirements. Electricians usually need 4-5 years (8,000-10,000 hours), plumbers need 4-5 years (8,000-10,000 hours), and HVAC technicians need 3-4 years. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, often through union programs or community colleges.

What is the difference between journeyman and master licenses?

A journeyman license allows you to perform trade work under general supervision, while a master license allows you to work independently, pull permits, supervise others, and run your own business. Master licenses typically require additional experience (2-4 years as a journeyman), a more advanced exam, and higher fees. Many states require a master license to operate a contracting business.

Explore the DataPeek Network

LawyerCostPeek DivorceLawPeek EvictionLawPeek CarInsurancePeek DMVPeek FloodRiskPeek VocabWize VocabLibre DicionarioWize WortWize KalimaWize KotobaPeek NameBlooms WagePeek NetPayPeek SalaryByCity