Pest control is a reliable job that pays well; that’s why several people want to know how to get a pest control license in Arizona.
The warm climate in this State can house unwanted guests like snakes, rodents, and weeds. They value their pest control technicians, so you must fulfill some requirements to get the license.
Here are essential tips about pest control in Arizona.
Should You Get A Pest Control License In Arizona?
Arizona State has a Pest Management Division (PMD) that oversees pesticides, including safe use and handling of these chemicals. Pest control technicians use pesticides daily; that’s why the State requires you to have an official license before you start work.
Here’s a guide on how to get pest control license and its general requirements. Arizona has specific fees and training courses to become a certified applicator.
Types Of Pest Control Licenses
Arizona takes its pest control technicians seriously. You must meet the correct requirements to work your way up through the ranks.
There are three pesticide licenses you can apply for, starting with a “certified applicator” license. You can apply for other permits that will grant you a higher position and even create a pest control business.
1. Certified applicator license
This license is your starting level in the pest control business. You can use general or restricted-use pesticides, but you can only work as an employee of a company.
You must pay a fee for this license. Expect to spend $75.00 for this certification.
2. Certified qualified applicator license
You use the same chemicals and still work for a company, but now you’re considered a qualifying party in a business license. You have a higher level compared to regular employees.
You must pass an exam and have enough experience to get this license. You will also need a $100.00 application fee.
3. Business applicator license
Owning this certificate means you can start a pest control business. You will be in charge, and you can earn money.
The requirements for this license are a little stricter, though. You need your trade name certificate, proof of financial security, and a $250.00 application fee.
All these licenses are issued by the PMD, which will regulate your pest management work.
Types Of Pest Control Categories
Pest management has several categories, from weeds to rodents; here is what the PMD regulates.
- Wood-destroying organisms – This category involves inspecting and treating wood-destroying organisms like termites.
- Industrial and institutional – This is general pest management for residential and commercial areas.
- Ornamental and turf – This pest management uses fumigant to treat weeds and other overgrowths.
- Aquatic – This includes pest control in standing or running water against mosquito larvae.
- Right-of-way – Treating weeds and other overgrowths in power lines, public roads, or railways.
- Fumigation – Using fumigants to prevent all pests.
- Wood preservation – Applying pesticides directly to wooden boards that aren’t part of an existing structure.
Requirements For A Pest Control License In Arizona
Pest control license requirements are usually similar; here is a guide on how to become a pest control technician. However, Arizona State has some additional requirements you must complete before getting your license.
1. Prerequisite requirements
Besides the age limit and primary education, a pest control technician in Arizona must have the State’s valid ID card. They must also be employed by a licensed business to get the certificate.
2. Examinations and training programs
Arizona State requires aspiring technicians to go through training programs. You can check these pages for more information:
- APMC Pesticide Safety Education Program
- Pest Control Training Arizona
- Arizona Pesticide Continuing Educational Courses
Here are some certification courses required to be a pest control technician in Arizona.
- Introduction to insects
- Advanced termite control
- Insecticide application
- Mosquito biology
- Larval management
- Personal protective equipment
- Fumigation
- Animal classification
3. On-the-job experience
It helps if you’ve already had past experience working with pest control. You will know how to treat infestations and how to deal with clients.
This interpersonal relationship will help you develop your business later on.
What Happens After The Certificate?
Once you have your certified applicator license, you can look for pest control work. It may seem like a straightforward profession, but there are several aspects where you can specialize:
- Certified pest control technician
- Pest control representative
- Bed bug exterminator
- Licensed pest control manager
- Termite exterminator
- Hand spray operator
- Pest control apprentice
- Commercial/residential pest control technician
Once you’ve found your niche in the pest control world, you can work your way up until you can start your own business.
Pest Control License Renewal
You must renew your license every year; the cost can range from $75.00 to $400.00. A typical pest control technician earns at least $39,000.00 a year, so the renewal fee is a small sacrifice to make.
You must remember that Arizona doesn’t have any reciprocal licensing agreement with other U.S. states, so your pest control license is only valid in Arizona.
Conclusion
Pest control is a growing business, especially in warm states like California. You can build a promising career if you know how to get a pest control license in Arizona.
So, start processing your documents and fulfill your work goal!