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:
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:
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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