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Tennessee Pest Control Applicator License Requirements

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

Applies pesticides to eliminate pests from homes and businesses.

What the Tennessee data shows for Pest Control Applicators

Tennessee sets the entry bar for pest control applicators at 15 training hours and a passing score on State Pesticide Applicator Exam. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under Tennessee's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "On-the-Job Training".

Budget $91 to get started, plus $82 at each renewal on a 3-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 15 hours of continuing education are due every 3-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Not typically reciprocal — state-specific.

Licensing Requirements in Tennessee

Education / Training Hours
On-the-Job Training
15 hours
Exam Requirement
State Pesticide Applicator Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$91
Renewal Fee
$82
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 Tennessee licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Pest Control Applicator in Tennessee?
Tennessee's requirements cover 15 hours of education or training, the State Pesticide Applicator Exam exam, and an initial fee of $91. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Pest Control Applicator in Tennessee?
Certification as a pest control applicator in Tennessee means clearing the state's checklist: 15 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Tennessee licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Pest Control Applicator license to Tennessee from another state?
For pest control applicators, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: Not typically reciprocal — state-specific. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the Tennessee licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Tennessee require a background check for Pest Control Applicator licensing?
Tennessee does require a background check before issuing a pest control applicator license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Pest Control Applicator in Tennessee?
Tennessee ties continued pest control applicator licensure to 15 continuing-education hours, due every 3 years, alongside a $82 renewal fee.

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