PEST CONTROL LICENSING

Maryland pest control license:
everything you need to know

Maryland provides an opportunity for pest control technicians to earn a good living in the pest control industry. This Maryland pest control license guide provides an overview of what it takes to get and maintain your license.

Does Maryland require a pest control license?

The state requires pest control technicians to obtain a Maryland pest control license.

Are there different types of licenses for Maryland?

The three types of pest control licenses in Maryland include:

  • Private applicator license
  • Commercial pest control license
  • Pest control consultant license

Pest control technicians with a private applicator license use pesticides for agricultural purposes on their own property. Owners of nurseries, dairy farms, greenhouses, and orchards are required to get a private applicator license.

Commercial pest control licenses are granted to business owners that perform pest control services as part of a contract or customer service agreement. This license grants businesses the authority to use weed killers, organic pesticides, and rodent repellents around any commercial or residential property.

A pest control consultant license gives technicians the authority to inspect, identify, and control pests. Technicians with this type of license generally work for pest control businesses.

The average yearly pay for pest control technicians in Maryland is $41,431.

How do I become licensed for pest control in Maryland?

Maryland pest control technicians are not required to attend school. Most technicians receive on-the-job training. However, formal pest control training programs are available for pest control technicians.

Training programs:

Tuition Costs:

Tuition costs vary. Expect to pay between $15 (online) and $200 per course.

Prerequisites:

  • Have a high school diploma or GED
  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Possess a Maryland driver’s license
  • Be physically able to perform the job

On-the-Job Experience:

  • Work under the supervision of a licensed senior pest control technician
  • Use chemicals to eliminate rodents, termites, and roaches
  • Conduct pest inspections

Licensing Board Information:

Maryland pest control licenses are granted by the Maryland Department of Agriculture.

Examination Requirements:

Applicants for private applicator licenses must be at least 16 years old. Exam includes multiple-choice questions. A passing score is 70%.

Applicants for commercial pest control licenses must be at least 18 years old and have one year of experience as an employee of a pesticide company. Exams include multiple-choice questions.  A passing score is 70%.

Applicants for the pest control consultant license are required to take a multiple-choice exam. Passing score is a 70 percent.

Examination Resource:

How to use your pest control license to get a job

Pest control technicians receive competitive salaries. The hourly pest control technician pay rate is $19.47. To find a job as a pest control technician, browse job websites or pest control company websites. Top job websites include:

Prospective employers ask the following types of questions:

  • What are your career goals?
  • What do you know about our company?
  • Why did you choose a career in this industry?
  • Why should we hire you for this job?

Wear professional clothing to your job interview. Bring a copy of your resume and driver’s license to your pest control technician interview.

The Maryland pest control industry is growing. Pest control companies are tapping into the following trends to gain their share of the pest control market:

  • Identifying the demographics of customers in the area
  • Learning about new pest control laws and regulations
  • Using artificial intelligence and new pest control technology
  • Attending Maryland trade shows

Dangers of being a pest control technician

Pest control technicians work with different types of chemicals and heavy equipment. People in the pest control industry face several types of danger.

Chemicals – Technicians use pesticides during the extermination process. Pesticides contain harsh chemicals. Pesticide exposure contributes to skin irritation, lung infections, asthma, and mouth ulcers.

Physical hazards – Technicians lift heavy equipment, such as ladders and pesticide machines. This equipment may cause back injuries, strains, and hernias.

Accidental injuries – Walking on uneven or slippery surfaces causes technicians to fall. Technicians fall off ladders, roofs, and other elevated platforms.

Pest hazards – Mosquitoes and other pest bite technicians. Bees, wasps, and hornets attack and sting technicians.

As a pest control technician, preventative measures exist to reduce your chances of getting hurt:

  • Wear protective clothing and safety shoes
  • Wear respiratory protection gear
  • Wear chemical-resistant gloves
  • Wear eye protection

Is my pest control license only valid in Maryland?

Maryland pest control license reciprocity is offered to technicians who hold a valid license in their state of residence.

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

Licensees are required to take recertification courses before they can renew their licenses. Pest control licenses shall be renewed every year. With certification courses and renewal fees, plan to spend between $100 and $300 to renew your license.