Alabama Pest Control License: Everything You Need to Know

The demand for technicians in the Alabama pest control industry is increasing every year. This career offers a competitive salary and a chance to develop your skills.

Alabama pest control technicians must go through the licensing process to apply pesticides and restricted-use chemicals. This guide will show you how to get an Alabama pest control license.

Does Alabama Require a Pest Control License?

The state of Alabama requires professional pest control technicians to be licensed to handle general and restricted use pesticides.

Are There Different Types of Licenses for Alabama?

The different types of Alabama pest control licenses are:

• Private applicator license

• Commercial applicator license

The Alabama pest control license is commonly known as a pesticide applicator license. Here are the two categories:

Private applicator license authorizes you to purchase and use restricted use pesticides on your employer's property or your own property. This license applies to the production of agricultural commodities. The fee for the Alabama private applicator license is $45.

Commercial applicator license authorizes you to purchase or use restricted use pesticides on your employer's property or your property for compensation. The fee for the Alabama commercial applicator license is $45.

The average yearly pay for Alabama pest control technicians is about $34,000.

How Do I Become Licensed for Pest Control in Alabama?

It is not necessary for you to attend college or apply for a formal training program to become a pest control technician. You must take recertification courses to renew your license. Alabama pest control licenses are issued by the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries.

Training programs:

• Pest Control Training Headquarters

• Alabama Cooperative Extension System

Course Costs: Expect to pay between $15 and $30 per credit for Alabama pest control recertification courses.

Prerequisites:

• Have a high school diploma or GED

• Be at least 18 years old

• Possess an Alabama driver's license

• Be physically able to perform the job

On-the-Job Experience:

• Establish business relationships with customers to solve problems

• Stay abreast of company products and service offerings

• Transport heavy equipment, such as pesticide sprayers and ladders

• Operate a company vehicle in a safe manner

Licensing board Information: Apply for your license online at the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries.

Examination requirements: Alabama pest control license applicants must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED. Pest control license applicants must pass an exam to receive a license. The pest control license examination fee is $75.

Examination categories include:

• General Standards (Core)

• Agricultural Animal Pest Control

• Agricultural Plant Pest Control

• Aerial Equipment Authorization

• Public Health Control

Examination Resources:

Use the following resources to prepare for your Alabama pest control examination:

• Commercial Pesticide Applicator Study Manual

• Pesticide Applicator Study Quiz

• General Standard Exam Review Questions

How to Use Your Pest Control License to Get a Job

Alabama pest control technician jobs are available throughout the state. Whether you want to work for a private company or a government agency, it is possible to find a job that suits your skills. Browse the following job websites to find current Alabama pest control technician vacancies:

• Indeed

• CareerBuilder

• Glassdoor

The hourly Alabama pest control technician pay rate is $17.17.

Practice responding to the following questions to prepare for your interview:

• How do you handle dealing with difficult people?

• What is the key to success when interacting with customers?

• What are your long-term career goals?

• How do you plan to achieve your goals?

• What is the most difficult part of customer service?

• How do you handle stressful situations?

Wear neatly-pressed business clothes to your interview. Bring a copy of your education credentials, resume, social security card, and driver's license to your Alabama pest control technician interview.

Pest Control Industry Trends

Noteworthy trends and developments in the pest control industry include:

• Market to customers who are new to the location

• Determine the most common types of pests in the area

• Impact pesticide regulations by attending hearings and legislative votes

• Use eco-friendly pesticides

• Attend pest control technician trade shows

Dangers of Being a Pest Control Technician

Alabama pest control technicians face daily hazards. From harsh chemicals to rodents with diseases, pest control technicians must make safety a top priority. Common hazards for Alabama pest control technicians are:

• Toxic Chemicals

• Pest bites and stings

• Company truck accidents

• Back sprains due to heavy equipment

Apply these tips to protect yourself. Always wear:

• Work boots

• Respiratory protection gear

• Chemical resistant rubber gloves

• Safety glasses or goggles

Follow directions when applying general and restricted use chemicals. Be careful when you walk on slippery surfaces. Make sure your ladder is strong enough to hold you and your equipment.

Is My Pest Control License Only Valid in Alabama?

Alabama has reciprocity agreements with the following states:

• Georgia

• Florida

• Indiana

• Louisiana

• Mississippi

• Ohio

• South Carolina

• Tennessee

How Often Do I Need to Renew My Pest Control License in Alabama?

All Alabama pest control licenses are valid for three years. The renewal fee is $45.

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