2026 data Colorado board official source

Colorado Pest Control Applicator License Requirements

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

Applies pesticides to eliminate pests from homes and businesses.

What the Colorado data shows for Pest Control Applicators

Colorado's path to pest control applicator licensure runs through 34 hours of approved instruction and a passing score on State Pesticide Applicator Exam, plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. Colorado folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "On-the-Job Training".

The initial price tag is $174, and renewal costs $153 every 3 years. Maintaining the license requires 15 hours of continuing education per 3-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

For pest control applicators, the reciprocity picture is: Not typically reciprocal — state-specific.

Licensing Requirements in Colorado

Education / Training Hours
On-the-Job Training
34 hours
Exam Requirement
State Pesticide Applicator Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$174
Renewal Fee
$153
Renewal Cycle
Every 3 years
Continuing Education
15 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Colorado licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Pest Control Applicator in Colorado?
Colorado's requirements cover 34 hours of education or training, the State Pesticide Applicator Exam exam, and an initial fee of $174. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Pest Control Applicator in Colorado?
Colorado licenses pest control applicators who complete its requirements (34 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Colorado licensing board.
Can I transfer my Pest Control Applicator license to Colorado from another state?
Reciprocity for pest control applicators nationally works like this: Not typically reciprocal — state-specific. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Colorado. Verify the specifics with the Colorado licensing board.
Does Colorado require a background check for Pest Control Applicator licensing?
A criminal background check is mandatory for pest control applicator licensing in Colorado. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Pest Control Applicator in Colorado?
To stay licensed as a pest control applicator in Colorado, plan on 15 hours of continuing education per 3-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $153.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites