North Carolina Pest Control License: Everything You Need to Know

The United States pest control industry is experiencing a remarkable growth period. According to a recent independent study, the global pest control market is expected to increase by 5.2 percent within the next decade. This is good news if you want to begin a career in the pest control industry.

As a licensed pest control applicator in North Carolina, you will enjoy excellent job benefits including a competitive salary and opportunities for promotion. Apply the tips in this North Carolina pest control license guide to get your first job in the pest control industry.

Does North Carolina Require a Pest Control License?

North Carolina requires all restricted-use and state limited-use pesticide applicators to possess a North Carolina pest control license.

Are There Different Types of Licenses for North Carolina?

North Carolina pest control applicator license categories are:

• Commercial ground applicator license

• Public ground applicator license

• Private pesticide applicator license

• Aerial applicator license

• Pesticide dealer license

Commercial ground applicator licensees are authorized to apply restricted-use and state limited-use pesticides on another person's property. Commercial ground applicants are required to pass an exam.

Public ground applicator licensees are authorized to apply restricted-use and state limited-use pesticides on municipal, county, state, and federal property as part of their job duties. Government employees are not required to pay a fee for the public ground applicator license.

Private pesticide applicator licensees are authorized to apply restricted-use and state limited-use pesticides on their own land to produce agricultural commodities. Private pesticide applicator applicants must pass an exam.

Aerial pesticide applicator licensees are authorized to apply restricted-use and state limited-use pesticides on property using a helicopter or an airplane. Aerial pesticide applicators must pass three examinations. These exams are a specialty examination, an aerial methods examination, and a core examination.

Pesticide dealers are authorized to hold, make, distribute, and sell restricted-use pesticides to others.

Pest control applicator licenses in North Carolina range from $50 to $250. Certifications and licenses are issued by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

The average yearly pay for North Carolina pest control technicians is approximately $37,000.

How Do I Become Licensed for Pest Control in North Carolina?

Determine what you need to get your North Carolina pest control license. Take appropriate examinations, submit an application, and pay a fee.

North Carolina pest control training courses and programs: Online classes are not accepted for North Carolina pest control applications. You must attend classes in person. Search for approved pest control license courses on the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services website.

North Carolina pesticide certification and recertification course costs: Expect to pay between $50 and $200 per course.

Prerequisites:

• Have a high school diploma or equivalent

• Be at least 18 years old

• Possess a valid North Carolina identification card or driver's license

• Be employed by a licensed business

• Pass an examination

On-the-Job Experience:

• Provide excellent customer service

• Mix open containers of restricted-use pesticides

• Fumigate commercial and residential properties

• Transport, clean, and adjust pesticide equipment

• Prepare pesticide service estimates

Licensing board Information: Submit your application online to the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

North Carolina license examination requirements: Expect to pay between $10 and $50 for each exam. Each applicant must bring the following items with them to the examination.

• Valid picture identification

• Number 2 pencil

• Name and mailing address of employer (applies to government employees only)

North Carolina certification and recertification courses include:

• North Carolina Pest Control Laws and Regulations

• Federal Pesticide Laws

• Turf Health Update

• Livestock and Pasture Pests

• Pesticide Update

• Recreational Pond Management

• Pesticide Calibration and Safety

North Carolina examination resources:

• License (Fumigation, Household Pest, Wood)

• Certification (Fumigation, Household Pest, Wood)

• Online Study Materials

How to Use Your Pest Control License to Get a Job

Jobs in the North Carolina pest control industry include:

• Exterminator

• Pest Control Supervisor

• Licensed Termite Inspector

• Pest Control Technician/Specialist

• Pest Control Apprentice

• Termite Treatment Specialist

• Lawn Care Spray Technician

• Licensed Pest Control Manager

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

• ZipRecruiter

• Indeed

• CareerBuilder

• Glassdoor

The hourly pay rate for a pest control technician in North Carolina is $18.87.

Job interview tips:

• Ask questions

• Provide honest responses to questions

• Wear professional clothing.

• Bring a copy of your identification, social security card, and resume

• Send a follow-up message to hiring managers

Pest Control Industry Trends

Pest control industry trends include:

• Train employees on customer service best practices

• Research habits of local pests to determine how to control and eliminate them

• Provide pest control education services to customers

• Automate scheduling and billing systems

• Attend trade shows and meetings to remain competitive

Dangers of Being a Pest Control Technician

North Carolina pest control technicians face the following hazards:

• Dangerous pests with diseases

• Chemical spills and exposure

• On-the-job injuries (slipping and falling)

• Excessive heat and sun exposure

Pest control safety tips:

• Keep pesticides away from cigarettes, open flames, torches and lighters

• Mix pesticides according to the directions

• Wear protective clothing

Is My Pest Control License Only Valid in North Carolina?

North Carolina has reciprocal license agreements with South Carolina, Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee.

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

Renew your North Carolina pest control applicator license every two years. Expect to pay between $100 and $200 for license renewal and recertification.

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