Free Practice Questions for Pest Control

Each state, tribe or territory sets its own passing score and number of questions, so check with your certifying agency (usually the state Department of Agriculture). Federal rules require only a passing score on a proctored written exam that covers the core competency areas and your category.

The Core exam covers general pesticide safety, laws, and environmental protection applicable to all applicators. Category exams are specific to the type of pest control you'll perform — such as Agricultural (1A), Ornamental and Turf (3), Right-of-Way (6), or Structural Pest Control (7). You must pass Core plus at least one category to become certified.

Certification typically lasts 3-5 years depending on your state. Most states require continuing education credits (CEUs) for renewal — usually 4-8 hours per year or 15-20 hours per recertification period. Some states require retesting if CEUs are not completed.

Restricted-use pesticides are products that may cause unreasonable adverse effects to the environment or applicator even when used as directed. RUPs may be sold only to certified applicators or their authorized representatives, and used only by certified applicators or people under their direct supervision. The restricted-use statement appears on the label, and these products require additional training and recordkeeping.

PPE requirements are found on the pesticide label and vary by product toxicity. Common requirements include: chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile, neoprene, or butyl), protective eyewear, long-sleeved shirt and pants or coveralls, chemical-resistant footwear, and respirators when specified. Always check the label's Precautionary Statements section.

Prevent drift by: (1) Using nozzles that produce larger droplets, (2) Spraying at lower boom heights, (3) Avoiding applications during windy conditions (>10 mph), (4) Using drift reduction adjuvants, (5) Maintaining appropriate buffer zones near sensitive areas, and (6) Following label directions for temperature inversions and wind speed restrictions.

The REI is the period after a pesticide application when entry into the treated area is restricted to protect workers. REIs range from 4 hours to several days and are listed on the pesticide label under Agricultural Use Requirements. Only workers with appropriate PPE or early-entry workers with specific training may enter during the REI.