To become a licensed pest inspector in California, you must determine if you need a Structural Pest Control Board (SPCB) license (for structural pests) or a Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) certification (for agricultural or landscape pests). Requirements include meeting age (18+) and training/experience criteria, passing a category-specific exam through PSI Exams, completing a background check via Live Scan, and paying applicable fees to the respective board. You must also maintain continuing education and adhere to state regulations, including proper record-keeping.
In California, pest control licensing is overseen by two main agencies: the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) for agricultural, landscape, and public health pest control, and the Structural Pest Control Board (SPCB) for structural (commercial, residential, etc.) pest control. You will need to determine which agency and license type applies to your specific work goals by using the agency's guidance or online tools. Applications, fees, and ongoing continuing education requirements are managed by the respective boards and agencies.
Who to Contact: DPR vs. SPCB:
California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR):
Issues licenses for applying pesticides in agricultural settings, on farms, in landscapes, around water, and in public health areas (e.g., mosquito control).
Structural Pest Control Board (SPCB):
Issues licenses for pest control in commercial and residential structures, like homes, offices, and buildings.
Steps to Obtain a License:
1. Determine Your Needs:
Use resources from the DPR and SPCB, such as the "Which California Pest Control or Applicator License Do I Need?" guide from UC IPM, to identify the correct license based on your work.
2. Apply for the Correct License:
Submit the required application, forms, and fees to the relevant agency (DPR or SPCB).
3. Complete Training & Examinations:
Fulfill any training requirements and pass the applicable examinations for the license type you are pursuing.
4. Fulfill Business Requirements:
For a company license, you'll also need to register your company, provide proof of insurance, bonding, and workers' compensation.
5. Renew Annually or Biennially:
Ensure you maintain your license by fulfilling continuing education requirements and renewing it on time.
Key Regulations & Considerations:
Operating Without a License:
Contracting for pest control work without the proper license can lead to serious penalties, including misdemeanor charges, significant fines, and jail time.
Continuing Education:
All pest control licenses require ongoing continuing education to remain valid.
Supervision:
A valid company license or certification requires a qualified individual to supervise operations.
In California, pest control licensing is overseen by two main agencies: the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) for agricultural, landscape, and public health pest control, and the Structural Pest Control Board (SPCB) for structural (commercial, residential, etc.) pest control. You will need to determine which agency and license type applies to your specific work goals by using the agency's guidance or online tools. Applications, fees, and ongoing continuing education requirements are managed by the respective boards and agencies.
Who to Contact: DPR vs. SPCB:
California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR):
Issues licenses for applying pesticides in agricultural settings, on farms, in landscapes, around water, and in public health areas (e.g., mosquito control).
Structural Pest Control Board (SPCB):
Issues licenses for pest control in commercial and residential structures, like homes, offices, and buildings.
Steps to Obtain a License:
1. Determine Your Needs:
Use resources from the DPR and SPCB, such as the "Which California Pest Control or Applicator License Do I Need?" guide from UC IPM, to identify the correct license based on your work.
2. Apply for the Correct License:
Submit the required application, forms, and fees to the relevant agency (DPR or SPCB).
3. Complete Training & Examinations:
Fulfill any training requirements and pass the applicable examinations for the license type you are pursuing.
4. Fulfill Business Requirements:
For a company license, you'll also need to register your company, provide proof of insurance, bonding, and workers' compensation.
5. Renew Annually or Biennially:
Ensure you maintain your license by fulfilling continuing education requirements and renewing it on time.
Key Regulations & Considerations:
Operating Without a License:
Contracting for pest control work without the proper license can lead to serious penalties, including misdemeanor charges, significant fines, and jail time.
Continuing Education:
All pest control licenses require ongoing continuing education to remain valid.
Supervision:
A valid company license or certification requires a qualified individual to supervise operations.
