Virginia pest control license:
everything you need to know

Does Virginia require a pest control license?

The state of Virginia requires private applicators, registered technicians, and commercial applicators to be licensed to apply restricted-use pesticides.

Are there different types of licenses for Virginia?

Virginia pest control applicator license categories are:

• Private applicator license
• Commercial applicator license (for hire)
• Commercial applicator license (not for hire)
• Registered technician license

Private applicator license authorizes licensees to produce agricultural commodities and apply restricted-use pesticides on an employer’s land or private personal property. Fee: $100

Commercial applicator (for hire) license authorizes licensees to receive compensation to apply any type of pesticide on another person’s property. Fee: $100

Commercial applicator (not for hire) license authorizes licensees to apply any pesticide according to their job duties. Government employees must possess this license to apply pesticides. Licensees are authorized to spray pesticides on recreational land (over 5 acres), daycare facilities, educational institutions, and convalescent facilities. Fee: $100

Registered technician licensees must work under the direct supervision of a licensed commercial applicator when using restricted-use pesticides. Persons who hold this license are authorized to apply general pesticides without direct supervision. Fee: $100

Each certification determines the type of pesticide that you are authorized to apply. Licenses are administered by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

The average yearly pay for Virginia pest control technicians is approximately $40,000.

How do I become licensed for pest control in Virginia?

Get your pest control applicator license by completing an application and passing a Virginia applicator exam. Prepare for your Virginian applicator exam by enrolling in online or on-site courses. You must work as a registered technician for at least a year before you are eligible to apply for a Virginia applicator license. If you work for a pest control company in Virginia, contact a company representative to determine your employer training options.

Virginia examination and training programs and information:

• Pesticide Applicator Training
• Applicator Training – Virginia Pesticide Safety
• Pesticide Training – Prince William County Government

Virginia pesticide certification and recertification costs:

Expect to pay between $50 and $200 per course.

Prerequisites:

• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Be at least 18 years old
• Possess a valid Virginia identification card or driver’s license
• Be employed by a licensed business (commercial applicator license and registered technician license)

On-the-Job Experience:

• Spray chemical powders, gases and solutions to get rid of pests
• Fumigate infested areas
• Install mechanical pest traps
• Remove blockages from infested areas
• Calculate cost estimates for pest control services

Licensing board Information: Apply for your license with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Find specific information about Virginia pest applicator license requirements on the agency’s website.

Virginia license examination requirements: Registered technicians and commercial pest applicator licensees must be employed by a licensed business.

Virginia license examination categories include:

• Pesticide Safety
• Virginia Pesticide Rules and Regulations
• Federal Pesticide Rules and Regulations
• Pesticide Application Techniques

Virginia examination resources:

• Pest Applicator License Quiz
• Virginia Pesticide Exam Prep and Worker Protection Standard
• Applying Pesticides in Virginia Flashcards 1
• General Standard Exam Review Questions

How to use your pest control license to get a job

In Virginia, there are several jobs available for Virginia pest control licensees and registered technicians. Here are a few sample job titles:

• Bed Bug Exterminator
• Certified Pest Control Technician
• Hand Spray Operator
• Pest Control Representative
• Pest Control Technician/Specialist
• Licensed Pest Control Manager
• Spray Worker
• Termite Exterminator
• Commercial/Residential Pest Control Technician
• Pest Control Apprentice

Top websites to find a job in the pest control industry:

• ZipRecruiter
• Indeed
• CareerBuilder

The hourly pay rate for a pest control technician in Virginia is $19.38.

Virginia pest control technician job interview tips:

• Read the job requirements to determine if you are a good fit for the job.
• Polish your job interview skills.
• Wear professional clothing to the interview.
• Respond to interview questions in a clear and concise manner.

Pest control industry trends

Noteworthy pest control industry trends include:

• Post-construction termite treatment is growing
• Weather conditions and urbanization attract pests, such as rats, termites, and bed bugs.
• Companies use automated billing and online scheduling to improve the customer experience.
• Pest control workers attend trade shows and meetings to remain competitive.

Dangers of being a pest control technician

Virginia pest control technician job hazards:

• Pests attack technicians
• Pesticide exposure causes upper respiratory problems, skin rashes, and malignancies.
• Technicians must transport heavy equipment.

Occupational safety tips:

• Never smoke or light fires near pesticides.
• Follow your company’s safety procedures at all times.
• Wear protective goggles, clothing, and gloves.

Is my pest control license only valid in Virginia?

Virginia has reciprocity agreements with the following states:

• Maryland
• North Carolina
• West Virginia
• Tennessee
• South Carolina

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

Renew your Virginia pest control license every two years. Virginia license renewal fees and recertification course costs range from $100 to $300.