Licensing requirements for Pest Control in Delaware
Pest Control Responsibilties:
Apply or release chemical solutions or toxic gases and set traps to kill or remove pests and vermin that infest buildings and surrounding areas.
Pest Control Benefits:
Make bugs your full time job. See all kinds of critters so others don't need to deal with them! Lots of food processing plants have CRAZY bug problems.
Does Delaware require a pest control license?
Requirements for Pest Control Technicians in Delaware
Pest control technicians in Delaware must hold a valid license to apply pesticides on both residential and commercial properties. This licensing is mandatory and ensures that pest control technicians have the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively and safely manage pest problems.
Are there different types of licenses for Delaware?
Delaware Pest Control Applicator License
If you are interested in pursuing a pest control occupation in Delaware, you will need to obtain the appropriate licensure. The state offers three categories of pest control applicator licenses:
1. Private Applicator License
Private applicator licensees have the authority to purchase and use restricted-use pesticides on agricultural land that produces commodities. This includes both their employer's and their own land. The application fee for a Delaware private applicator license is $30.
2. Commercial Applicator License (For Hire)
Commercial applicator licensees with the "for hire" designation are authorized to apply pesticides on another person's property. The fee for a Delaware commercial applicator license is $30.
3. Commercial Applicator License (Not for Hire)
Commercial applicator licensees with the "not for hire" designation are authorized to apply pesticides as part of their job duties on their employers' property. The fee for a Delaware commercial applicator license (not for hire) is $30.
Licenses are administered by the Delaware Department of Agriculture. To learn more about the requirements and application process, visit their website.
Restricted-Use Pesticides
It's important to note that anyone who purchases or applies restricted-use pesticides must apply for a Delaware pest control license. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the regulations and guidelines regarding restricted-use pesticides in Delaware, we recommend reading the Delaware Pesticide Rules and Regulations.
Pest Control Technician Salary
If you're considering a career as a pest control technician in Delaware, you might be interested to know that the average yearly salary in this field is approximately $36,000.
How do I become licensed for pest control in Delaware?
To become a licensed pest control technician in Delaware, you need to successfully pass the applicator exam. Here are the steps you can take:
1. Enroll in courses: Prepare for your application exam by enrolling in courses, either online or in a classroom setting. If you are employed by a pest control company, reach out to your Human Resources department to explore the training options they offer.
2. Delaware examination and training programs: You can find helpful resources and exam preparation courses through the following links:
3. Delaware training course costs: Expect to pay between $50 and $200 per course.
4. Prerequisites: Before taking the exam, make sure you meet the following requirements:
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Be at least 18 years old
- Possess a valid Delaware identification card or driver’s license
5. On-the-Job Experience: As a pest control technician, your responsibilities may include:
- Spraying chemical powders, gases, and solutions to eliminate pests in residential and commercial areas
- Installing mechanical pest traps
- Calculating cost estimates for pest control services
- Removing blockages from infested areas
- Fumigating infested areas
- Driving company truck to different jobs
6. Licensing board Information: Apply for your license with the Delaware Department of Agriculture. You can find specific information about pest applicator certification and recertification on the agency’s website: https://agriculture.delaware.gov/pesticide-management/pesticide-applicator-certification/
7. Delaware license examination requirements: Commercial applicators must be employed by a licensed pest control company. Private applicators are not required to be employed by a licensed pest control company.
8. Delaware license examination categories: The license examination categories in Delaware include:
- Agricultural – Plant
- Agricultural – Animal
- Fumigation of Soils and Agricultural Commodities
- Ornamental & Turf
- Seed Treatment
- Aquatic
- Mosquito
- General Pest Control
- Public Health
- Regulatory
- Demonstration & Research
- Cooling Tower
9. Examination resources: To prepare for the exam, you can explore the following resources:
How to use your pest control license to get a job
Are you looking for pest control jobs in Delaware? You're in luck! There are plenty of opportunities available for applicants with pest control licenses. Here are some sample job titles that you may be interested in:
- Bed Bug Exterminator
- Certified Pest Control Technician
- Extermination Inspector
- Hand Spray Operator
- Pest Control Representative
- Pest Control Technician
- Pest Control Specialist
- Spray Worker
- Termite Exterminator
- Residential Pest Control Technician
- Commercial Pest Control Technician
- Pest Controller Assistant
If you are ready to start your job search, here are some top websites where you can find pest control job listings:
If you're wondering about the hourly pay rate for a pest control technician in Delaware, it is approximately $17.39. This information can help you assess the potential financial benefits of pursuing a career in pest control.
Preparing for a job interview as a pest control technician? Here are some valuable tips to consider:
- Make sure you fully understand the requirements of the job before applying.
- Practice your interviewing skills to feel more confident during the process.
- Dress professionally to make a good impression at the interview.
- Speak with confidence and demonstrate your knowledge and expertise.
- Provide positive responses to interview questions, showcasing your skills and qualifications.
We hope these resources and tips help you in your pursuit of a pest control job in Delaware. Good luck!
Pest control industry trends
Trends contributing to growth in the pest control industry in Delaware
- Increased urbanization attracting rodents and other pests
- Rise in pests becoming resistant to over-the-counter chemicals
- Adoption of automated billing and online scheduling by pest control companies
- Participation in trade shows and meetings to stay competitive (check out the upcoming events)
Dangers of being a pest control technician
Delaware Pest Control Technician Job Hazards:
- Pests with diseases bite technicians
- Exposure to general and restricted-use chemicals cause skin rashes, lung infections, and malignancies
- Technicians fall from elevated surfaces and ladders
Occupational Safety Tips:
- Keep pesticides away from fire
- Adhere to your company's safety standards at all times
- Wear protective gear
Is my pest control license only valid in Delaware?
If you work in pest control in Delaware, it's important to know that the state has reciprocity agreements with the following states:
- Maryland
- Virginia
- New Jersey
- Pennsylvania
How often do I need to renew my pest control license in Delaware?
If you work in the pest-control occupation in Delaware, it is important to renew your license every three years. You can renew either your private applicator license or your commercial applicator license. The costs for license renewal and recertification courses in Delaware range from $100 to $300.
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