Certification in Illinois

Types of Licenses

Private Applicator License
Required for people applying restricted use pesticides to produce an agricultural commodity on property they own or control. Private Applicators must take the Grain Fumigation category in order to fumigate their own grain bins. For information concerning Private Applicator and Grain Fumigation Training and Testing, click here, or contact your local Extension Office.
($20 fee for 3-year license)

Other Licenses
Each exam is valid for a period of three years if no lapse occurs in licensure.

Pesticide Dealer License
An individual selling Restricted Use pesticides must be licensed. Also, an individual selling non-restricted use (general use) pesticides for the production of an agricultural commodity in containers with capacities equal to or greater than 2 1/2 gallons or 10 pounds must be licensed. A test, license, and fee are required. Also, mandatory records must be kept for two years. Commercial Applicators and Structural Pest Control Licensees are exempt from the test and fee but must register with the Department of Agriculture as Dealers.
($100 fee for 1-year license)

Commercial Applicator and Operator Licenses
Required for individuals who purchase, use, or supervise the use of pesticides classified for General or Restricted Use for hire.
(Applicator - $60, Operator - $40, both 1-year licenses)

Public Applicator and Operator Licenses
Required for individuals who use or supervise the use of pesticides classified for General or Restricted Use as an employee of a state agency, municipality, or other duly constituted governmental agency or unit. (no license fee)

Commercial Not-for-Hire Applicator and Operator Licenses
Required for individuals who use or supervise the use of pesticides classified for General or Restricted Use for any purpose on property of an employer when such activity is a requirement of the terms of employment and the application is limited to property under the control of the employer only. (no license fee).