Virginia pest control license:
everything you need to know

The Virginia pest control industry offers dozens of career opportunities for registered pest control technicians and licensed applicators. Whether you are looking for an in-demand career or the chance to earn a competitive salary, a career in the pest control industry meets those qualifications.

You must apply for your Virginia pest control license to use different types of pesticides on commercial and residential properties. This guide contains everything you need to know about getting a pest control applicator license in Virginia.

Does Virginia require a pest control license?

The state of Virginia requires private applicators, registered technicians, and commercial applicators to be licensed to apply restricted-use pesticides.

Are there different types of licenses for Virginia?

Virginia pest control applicator license categories are:

Private applicator license authorizes licensees to produce agricultural commodities and apply restricted-use pesticides on an employer’s land or private personal property. Fee: $100

Commercial applicator (for hire) license authorizes licensees to receive compensation to apply any type of pesticide on another person’s property. Fee: $100

Commercial applicator (not for hire) license authorizes licensees to apply any pesticide according to their job duties. Government employees must possess this license to apply pesticides. Licensees are authorized to spray pesticides on recreational land (over 5 acres), daycare facilities, educational institutions, and convalescent facilities. Fee: $100

Registered technician licensees must work under the direct supervision of a licensed commercial applicator when using restricted-use pesticides. Persons who hold this license are authorized to apply general pesticides without direct supervision. Fee: $100

Each certification determines the type of pesticide that you are authorized to apply. Licenses are administered by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

The average yearly pay for Virginia pest control technicians is approximately $40,000.

How do I become licensed for pest control in Virginia?

Get your pest control applicator license by completing an application and passing a Virginia applicator exam. Prepare for your Virginian applicator exam by enrolling in online or on-site courses. You must work as a registered technician for at least a year before you are eligible to apply for a Virginia applicator license. If you work for a pest control company in Virginia, contact a company representative to determine your employer training options.

Virginia examination and training programs and information:

Virginia pesticide certification and recertification costs:

Expect to pay between $50 and $200 per course.

Licensing board Information: Apply for your license with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Find specific information about Virginia pest applicator license requirements on the agency’s website.

Virginia license examination requirements: Registered technicians and commercial pest applicator licensees must be employed by a licensed business.

Virginia license examination categories include:

Virginia examination resources:

How to use your pest control license to get a job

In Virginia, there are several jobs available for Virginia pest control licensees and registered technicians. Here are a few sample job titles:

Top websites to find a job in the pest control industry:

Virginia pest control technician job interview tips:

Pest control industry trends

Noteworthy pest control industry trends include:

Dangers of being a pest control technician

Virginia pest control technician job hazards:

Occupational safety tips:

Is my pest control license only valid in Virginia?

Virginia has reciprocity agreements with the following states:

How often do I need to renew my pest control license in Virginia?

Renew your Virginia pest control license every two years. Virginia license renewal fees and recertification course costs range from $100 to $300.

Other industry licenses