Horticultural Workers - Licensing / Certification

Some states require licenses for people who apply pesticides. Requirements vary by state. In general, those who apply pesticides must be at least 18 years old and pass a written exam. Some states also require that pesticide applicators take a training course of 16 hours or more.

In Illinois, those who apply pesticides must:

be at least 16 years of age;
be a resident of Illinois;
pass a written exam; and
pay a fee.

Pesticide applicators must renew their licenses every three years.

For more information, contact:

Illinois Department of Agriculture
State Fairgrounds
801 E. Sangamon Ave, Springfield, IL 62702-1813
Phone: 217.782.2172, Fax: 217.785.4505