Navigating the path to your Arizona pest control license

In the world of pest control, knowledge is power — and it comes in the form of your credentials. Whether you’re striving to excel in your career or embarking on a new chapter within the industry, you want to make your mark. We get it. You’re making moves and rising in the ranks; obtaining your license unlocks an entire world of possibilities. 

Arizona pest control license requirements 

Understanding how to get a pest control license in Arizona:

Before delving into the specifics of how to obtain your Arizona pest control license, it’s essential to grasp its significance. It represents your dedication to professionalism, safety, and excellence in the field. It’s a testament to your commitment to safeguarding public health and property and your mastery of pest management principles. 

The process may seem daunting at first, but each step brings you closer to your goal.

Arizona Pest Management Division (PMD) is the agency to turn to for your Arizona pest control license. Governed by the Environmental Protection Agency regulations and state statutes, PMD focuses on structural pest control, encompassing various pests affecting structures and public health.

Arizona pest control license test: your step by step

• Apply with PMD to get approved for the exams.
• Once you’ve applied, keep an eye out for a letter from PMD approving you to test — it’s your green light.
• Schedule your exam. 
• Life happens. If you need to reschedule your exam appointment for any reason, no worries. Just give a notice and reschedule at no extra charge.
• Don’t forget to bring your picture ID with you to the testing site.

Categories of the PMD license

The PMD license in Arizona encompasses various categories, each tailored to address specific pest challenges. The following categories define the scope of pest control activities allowed:

• Ornamental and turf pest control
• Aquatic pest control
• Right-of-way pest control
• Industrial, institutional, and structural pest control
• Public health pest control
• Non-soil fumigation

Additionally, Arizona introduces State-Only Categories addressing Wood-Destroying Organism Management. These include Wood-Destroying Organism Treatment, Wood-Destroying Insect Inspection, and Wood Preservation.

Certified Applicator vs. Qualified Applicator

A Certified Applicator is licensed to provide pest management services, while a Qualified Applicator possesses additional privileges, like registration as a Qualifying Party for a PMD Business Licensee.

Certified Applicator

This individual, including a Qualified Applicator, can apply general or restricted-use pesticides while employed by a PMD-licensed business or a political subdivision. To become a Certified Applicator, you need to:

• Submit a completed application
• Pay the application fee ($55)
• Provide evidence of lawful presence
• Undergo a background investigation through fingerprints
• Pass the Core and at least one category-specific examination with a score of 75% or higher

The Arizona PMD has streamlined the application process for your Applicator license, and a simple one-step online application is all it takes. All you need is a credit card or bank account to cover the $55 application fee. You can begin your application here.

Qualified Applicator

With the privileges of a Certified Applicator come the opportunity to register as a Qualifying Party of a PMD Business Licensee to take on the responsibility of ensuring training, equipping, and supervision of all applicators within a business licensee or school district. They play a crucial role in maintaining proper proof of financial security for the business licensee. Experience/Qualification Requirements include certification as an applicator for 24 months within the last 10 years or certification for 12 months within the last 10 years with specific educational qualifications or relevant experience.

. To become a Qualified Applicator:

• Submit a completed application
• Pay the application fee ($75.00)
• Provide evidence of lawful presence
• Demonstrate required experience or qualification
• Undergo a background investigation through fingerprints
• Pass the Core and at least one category-specific examination with a score of 75% or higher

The PMD doesn’t regulate agricultural pest control, however. In addition to PMD’s regulatory oversight, the Environmental Services Section (ESS) collaborates with the agriculture industry to enforce regulations concerning pesticides, animal feed, seeds and fertilizer. ESS inspectors conduct inspections, provide compliance assistance, and offer training to ensure adherence to state and federal regulations.