2026 data New York board official source

New York Pest Control Applicator License Requirements

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

Applies pesticides to eliminate pests from homes and businesses.

What the New York data shows for Pest Control Applicators

To practice as a pest control applicator in New York, the state licensing board requires 24 documented education or training hours, a passing score on State Pesticide Applicator Exam. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under New York's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "On-the-Job Training".

The initial price tag is $128, and renewal costs $113 every 3 years. The license also carries an ongoing 15-hour continuing-education requirement per 3-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

On reciprocity, pest control applicators should know: Not typically reciprocal — state-specific.

Licensing Requirements in New York

Education / Training Hours
On-the-Job Training
24 hours
Exam Requirement
State Pesticide Applicator Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$128
Renewal Fee
$113
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 New York licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Pest Control Applicator in New York?
New York's requirements cover 24 hours of education or training, the State Pesticide Applicator Exam exam, and an initial fee of $128. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Pest Control Applicator in New York?
To become a licensed pest control applicator in New York, you must meet the state's requirements including 24 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the New York licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Pest Control Applicator license to New York from another state?
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for pest control applicators: Not typically reciprocal — state-specific. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the New York licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does New York require a background check for Pest Control Applicator licensing?
Yes, New York requires a criminal background check as part of the pest control applicator licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Pest Control Applicator in New York?
To stay licensed as a pest control applicator in New York, plan on 15 hours of continuing education per 3-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $113.

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