Rhode Island Pest Control License: Everything You Need to Know
The pest control industry is growing. Companies and government agencies are looking for licensed pest control technicians and supervisors. If you are ready to take your career in another direction, apply for a Rhode Island pest control license.
Licensed pest control technicians in Rhode Island earn competitive salaries. Read this guide to find out how to apply for your license and get a job.
Does Rhode Island Require a Pest Control License?
Rhode Island requires all restricted-use pesticide applicators to be licensed.
Are There Different Types of Licenses for Rhode Island?
Rhode Island pest control applicator license categories are:
Commercial applicator license
Private applicator license
Pesticide dealer license
Commercial pesticide applicator licensees are authorized to apply pesticides on another person's property in exchange for compensation. The fee is $45. Commercial certification categories are:
Agricultural Pest Control
Forest Pest Control
Ornamental and Turf Pest Control
Seed Treatment Pest Control
Aquatic Pest Control
Right-of-Way Pest Control
Industrial, Structural and Health-Related Pest Control
Public Health Pest Control
Regulatory Pest Control
Demonstration and Research Pest Control
Wood Preservation
Private pesticide applicator licensees are authorized to apply restricted-use and state limited-use pesticides on their own land to produce agricultural commodities. This license includes farmers and farm workers. The fee is $20.
Pesticide dealers are authorized to sell state limited-use and restricted-use pesticides to licensed Rhode Island applicators. The fee is $30.
Certifications and licenses are issued by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management.
The average yearly pay for Rhode Island pest control technicians is approximately $35,000.
How Do I Become Licensed for Pest Control in Rhode Island?
Determine the type of license you want to get before you apply for a Rhode Island pest control license. Submit an application and take an exam (if required).
Approved online training courses for Rhode Island applicants:
Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island identification card or driver's license
Be employed by a licensed business
Pass an examination (Commercial applicator applicants)
On-the-Job Experience:
Provide excellent customer service
Mix and handle open containers of general and restricted-use pesticides
Fumigate residential and commercial properties
Clean and adjust pesticide equipment
Prepare pesticide application estimates
Set mechanical traps for rodents and other pests
Licensing board Information: Submit your Rhode Island pest control license application to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management.
Rhode Island license examination requirements: Commercial applicator license and private applicator license applicants are required to take written and oral examinations. Examinations include general standards exam and at least one license category or subcategory examination. Examination fees range from $50 to $150 per test.
Rhode Island certification and recertification courses include:
Rhode Island Pest Control Laws and Regulations
Federal Pesticide Laws
Pesticide Safety, Formulation, Emergency Procedures and Modes of Action
Non-chemical Pest Control Techniques
Fumigation Techniques
Rhode Island examination resources:
How to Use Your Pest Control License to Get a Job
Types of Rhode Island pest control jobs include:
Exterminator
Pest Control Supervisor
Termite Treatment Specialist
Licensed Termite Inspector
Pest Control Technician/Specialist
Pest Control Apprentice
Commercial/Residential Pest Control Technician
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 Rhode Island is $17.73.
Apply these job interview tips to make a lasting impression on hiring managers:
Ask questions
Be respectful
Provide honest responses to questions
Wear professional clothing
Send a follow-up message to hiring managers
Pest Control Industry Trends
Pest control industry trends include:
Research habits of local pests to determine how to control and eliminate them
Automate scheduling and billing systems
Provide customers with pest prevention strategies
Attend trade shows and meetings to remain competitive
Dangers of Being a Pest Control Technician
Rhode Island pest control technicians face the following hazards:
Aggressive pests
Toxic chemical exposure
On-the-job injuries (slipping and falling)
Exposure to sun and excessive heat
Pest control safety tips:
Store pesticides in a safe place away from open flames and flammable materials
Apply pesticides according to the directions
Wear protective gear.
Is My Pest Control License Only Valid in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island has a reciprocal license agreement with New York.
How Often Do I Need to Renew My Pest Control License in Rhode Island?
Renew your Rhode Island pest control license every year. Renewal fees range from $25 to $50. Private applicators must take 6 hours of training every five years. Commercial applicators must take 8 hours of training every five years.
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