In Illinois, pest control workers must be licensed to apply pesticides. A person who engages in commercial pest control using general use pesticides must:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• pass an exam; and
• pay a fee.

Those engaging in commercial or non-commercial structural pest control using restricted pesticides must also meet the above requirements plus:

• six months of practical experience; and
• successful completion of a minimum of 16 semester hours in entomology or a pest control course approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health.

Licenses must be renewed after three years. Licensed individuals must attend a recertification seminar during the term of the license.

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