Illinois Pest Control License & Certification (Updated in 2025)
Getting a pest control license in Illinois can be confusing due to multiple license types, overlapping regulations, and separate programs for agricultural and structural pest control. Understanding the process is essential whether you're starting out, expanding your pest control business from another state, or adding new services.
This guide explains everything you need to know about pest control licensing in Illinois—from license categories and eligibility requirements to exam procedures, costs, and ongoing compliance. It covers both pesticide applicator certification under the Illinois Department of Agriculture and structural pest control licensing regulated by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH).
You’ll learn how to qualify as a certified applicator, what study materials to use, how to schedule a licensing exam, and how reciprocity works if you're licensed in another state.
We’ll also introduce FieldRoutes, a powerful software solution that helps pest control companies manage their day-to-day operations, including scheduling, routing, invoicing, and compliance tracking—all from a single, intuitive dashboard.
What Is a Pest Control License?
A pest control license in Illinois is a state-issued certification that authorizes individuals and businesses to apply pesticides, including restricted use pesticides (RUPs), in residential, commercial, agricultural, and structural settings. Licensing ensures that pesticide applicators are trained to follow safety protocols and comply with state and federal regulations.
License types include:
Private Applicator License – for individuals applying Restricted Use Pesticides (RUPs) on their own agricultural property.
Commercial Applicator License – for professionals applying pesticides for hire.
Pest Control Business License – required for companies offering pest control services to the public.
Certified Technician License – for individuals working under the supervision of a certified applicator in structural pest control.
Each license type comes with specific licensing requirements, such as passing written exams, completing approved training, and maintaining continuing education credits.
Understanding which applicator license fits your role is the first step toward launching or expanding a pest control business in Illinois.
Do You Need a Pest Control License in Illinois?
If you plan to apply pesticides in Illinois—either for hire or as part of a pest control business—you must be licensed by the state.
Licensing is required to ensure that all pesticide applicators are qualified to handle chemicals safely and comply with environmental and public health regulations.
In Illinois, licensing is divided between two state agencies:
The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) oversees licensing for agricultural, right-of-way, turf, and ornamental applications.
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) regulates structural pest control licensing, including work involving termites, wood-destroying organisms, and fumigation.
You must have a valid license if you:
Apply restricted-use pesticides (RUPs)
Perform pest control services for compensation
Supervise structural pest control work or technicians
Operate a pest control company in Illinois
Even private applicators—such as farmers applying restricted-use pesticides (RUPs) on their land—must obtain a license through the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA).
Unlicensed application of pesticides, particularly restricted-use products, may result in regulatory penalties or legal consequences.
To determine which license type you need, review the relevant license categories and requirements, or explore IDPH’s structural pest control licensing information if you’re performing structural work.
What Are the Licensing Requirements for Pest Control Contractors in Illinois?
Licensing is mandatory whether you're an individual contractor or plan to operate a pest control business. It ensures that applicators are qualified to apply restricted-use pesticides (RUPs) and follow proper safety and environmental procedures.
To qualify for a license in Illinois, you must:
Be at least 18 years old for certified applicator licenses and 16 years old for structural technician licensing.
Pass the general standards (core) exam and at least one category-specific licensing exam, depending on your pest control work.
Submit a completed application and pay the appropriate license fee.
For structural work, register with IDPH and comply with additional structural pest control licensing rules.
To keep your license active and in good standing, you must maintain continuing education units (CEUs) or pass a recertification exam every three years.
If you plan to start or operate a pest control company in Illinois, you must:
Obtain a Commercial Structural Pest Control Business License through IDPH or a Commercial Pesticide Applicator Business License through IDOA, depending on your services.
Employ at least one certified applicator to supervise licensed technicians.
Provide proof of liability insurance, as required by the state.
Ensure all employees who apply pesticides are either certified or working under direct supervision.
Reciprocity may be available for out-of-state license holders; however, you must contact the relevant department (IDOA or IDPH) to determine your eligibility.
For complete licensing procedures, always refer to IDOA’s pesticide licensing resources and IDPH’s structural pest control licensing page.
What Are the Different Types of Pest Control Licenses in Illinois?
Illinois offers multiple pest control license types depending on the type of work being performed and the products being applied.
Whether you work in agriculture, structural pest control, fumigation, or weed control, obtaining the correct certification is essential for both legal compliance and professional credibility.
Understanding the licensing structure will help you choose the right path for your role, whether you're applying as a private applicator, a commercial applicator, or launching a pest control business.
License Category | Description |
Private Applicator License | Required for individuals applying restricted-use pesticides (RUPs) on their own or their employer's agricultural land. Valid for both general and aerial General Standards with a $60 fee |
Commercial Applicator License | For those who use or supervise RUPs and general-use pesticides for hire. Requires passing the General Standards exam and at least one category test (e.g., turf, ornamental, mosquito, weed control) Fee: $240 |
Commercial Operator License | For employees working under a licensed commercial applicator. Also requires passing core and, if applicable, category exams. Fee: $180 |
Commercial Not‑for‑Hire Applicator and Operator Licenses | Designed for individuals applying pesticides as part of employment, not for hire. Not‑for‑Hire Applicator: $120 Not‑for‑Hire Operator: $90 |
Pesticide Dealer License | For individuals or businesses selling RUPs or large quantities of general-use pesticides (in quantities exceeding 2.5 gallons or 10 pounds). Requires record-keeping and exam exemptions for certified applicators Fee: $350 |
Structural Pest Control License (IDPH) | Administered by the IDPH, pest control inside buildings, such as termite treatments, rodent control, bird control, or work on wood-destroying organisms, is required. Specific license types and fees vary; typically involves a technician versus certified applicator structure, with annual renewal. |
Any company providing pest control services to the public in Illinois must obtain a Pest Control Business License through either IDOA or IDPH, depending on the type of work performed:
IDOA issues licenses for businesses handling turf, agricultural, and general outdoor applications.
IDPH licenses companies engaged in structural pest control, including fumigation and termite work.
Business applicants must:
Employ at least one certified applicator
Maintain liability insurance as required by the state
Submit application forms and pay the required license fees
Whether you're an individual applicator, technician, or launching a pest control company, selecting the appropriate license category ensures you meet all regulatory requirements and operate legally in Illinois.
Both Applicator and Operator licenses may include multiple categories, depending on the site or type of pest serviced, such as aquatic, field crop, forest, grain facility, ornamental, turf, vegetable crop, or structural pest control.
For complete licensing information, visit the IDOA Pesticide Licensing page or the IDPH Structural Pest Control page.
What Are the Steps to Get a Pest Control License in Illinois?
Obtaining a pest control license in Illinois involves a series of steps that vary depending on whether you are applying for a private applicator license, a commercial applicator license, or a structural pest control certification.
Whether you’re pursuing individual applicator certification or starting a pest control business, following the steps below ensures compliance with state and federal regulatory requirements.
Step 1: Determine the Appropriate License Type
Start by identifying the license type you need:
For agricultural, turf, or right-of-way pesticide use, apply through IDOA.
For structural pest control, including termite fumigation or work on wood-destroying organisms, apply through the IDPH.
Your role—whether as a private applicator, commercial applicator, or technician—will determine the exam requirements, supervision levels, and license restrictions.
Step 2: Prepare Using Approved Study Materials
Before taking the exam, review the appropriate study materials:
IDOA provides manuals and training resources through the University of Illinois Extension.
The IDPH also offers study guides for structural pest control licensing, which can be accessed through their website or regional offices.
Review materials for both the General Standards (core) and category-specific exams relevant to your field.
Step 3: Register and Take the Exam
Schedule your pesticide licensing exam through the appropriate agency:
For IDOA-administered licenses, exam sessions are listed on the Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP) calendar.
For structural licenses, IDPH exam information can be found on the Structural Pest Control Exam page.
Exams typically include:
Core (general standards) component
One or more category exams (e.g., structural pest control, weed control, or fumigation)
Passing scores are required in both sections for full certification.
Step 4: Submit Your License Application
After passing the exams, complete your license application:
IDOA applicants can submit forms and fees via the Pesticide Licensing portal.
IDPH structural applicants must register using their structural pest control license forms.
Be prepared to pay the applicable license fee, which varies depending on the license type and category.
Step 5: Apply for a Business License (If Applicable)
If you plan to operate a pest control company, you must also:
Apply for a Pesticide Applicator Business License (IDOA) or Structural Pest Control Business License (IDPH), depending on your services.
Submit proof of liability insurance that meets state requirements.
Employ at least one certified applicator per business location.
Business license forms are available on the IDOA licensing page and the IDPH business license page.
Step 6: Maintain Certification
Licenses in Illinois are valid for three years and must be maintained through:
Approved continuing education units (CEUs)
Or retaking the core and category exams before expiration
CEU opportunities are listed on the University of Illinois Extension PSEP site.
What Business Owners Need to Know
Starting a pest control business in Illinois involves more than obtaining an individual applicator license.
You must also meet state regulatory and insurance requirements and register your company through the appropriate licensing agency—either IDOA or IDPH, depending on the services offered.
To operate a pest control business legally in Illinois, you must:
Apply for a Pesticide Applicator Business License through IDOA (for agriculture, turf, or mosquito control) or a Structural Pest Control Business License through IDPH (for structural pest services like termites or fumigation).
Employ at least one certified applicator for each business location.
Submit proof of liability insurance that meets state-mandated coverage limits.
Maintain compliance with record-keeping and reporting requirements related to pesticide use, particularly for restricted-use pesticides (RUPs).
Ensure that technicians are either licensed or supervised and meet all applicable continuing education requirements.
Staying compliant with licensing and reporting requirements helps prevent enforcement actions and builds client trust.
To simplify business operations—from technician scheduling and service routing to invoicing and compliance tracking—many companies use FieldRoutes’ pest control software.
FieldRoutes is designed to help pest control operators scale efficiently and stay organised while meeting regulatory requirements.
How to Get a Pest Control License in Illinois
To become a licensed pesticide applicator in Illinois, you must meet state-specific training, exam, and business requirements. Whether you're seeking certification to work as a technician, expand into structural pest control, or launch a pest control company, the process is regulated by either IDOA or IDPH, depending on the type of pest control work.
Work Experience or Training
There is no formal work experience requirement for most commercial applicator licenses issued by the IDOA; however, thorough preparation using University of Illinois Extension study materials is strongly encouraged.
For structural pest control licensing through IDPH, technicians must work under the supervision of a certified structural applicator before advancing to full certification.
Individuals seeking a private applicator license for agricultural use must pass an exam; however, prior work experience is not required.
Apply to Take the Examination
Once prepared, you must register for the required exams:
IDOA applicants schedule exams through the Pesticide Safety Education Program, which includes the General Standards (core) exam and relevant category exams (e.g., weed control, mosquito control).
IDPH applicants must pass the General Use and category-specific exams (e.g., termites, fumigation) listed on the IDPH exam page.
You must score at least 70% on each portion to qualify for certification.
Apply for State Licensure
After passing the required exams:
You must submit your license application to the IDOA or IDPH, depending on the type of license you are applying for.
Pay the applicable license fee.
The IDPH requires structural pest control technicians to register annually, while commercial applicators must renew their registration every three years.
Applications and forms are available on both the IDOA licensing portal and the IDPH structural licensing site.
Maintain Your Certification
Both IDOA and IDPH require licensees to:
Complete continuing education units (CEUs) or
Retake certification exams every three years
You can track available CEU sessions via the University of Illinois Extension CEU calendar.
By following these steps, you can become a certified applicator, legally provide pest control services, and operate a compliant pest control business in Illinois.
Illinois Pest Control Training Programs and Schools
Completing a recognised training program is an essential step toward earning your pesticide applicator license in Illinois. These programs cover safe pesticide use, regulatory compliance, and best practices in integrated pest management.
In Illinois, training and study resources are primarily provided through the University of Illinois Extension Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP). This program supports applicants preparing for IDOA licensing exams and offers:
Online and in-person courses for private applicators, commercial applicators, and technicians
Study materials for General Standards (core) and category-specific exams
CEU opportunities for applicators seeking recertification
If you're working toward structural pest control licensing through IDPH, consult their Structural Pest Control Program for exam content and training references. IDPH also recognises continuing education workshops approved by certified providers across the state.
Whether you're pursuing certification in fumigation, weed control, or insecticides, completing the appropriate training program ensures you’re fully prepared to pass Illinois’ licensing exams and operate in compliance with state regulations.
Illinois Licensing Exam Details
To become a certified pesticide applicator in Illinois, you must pass the state-administered licensing exams regulated by either the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) or the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), depending on your area of practice.
Exam Structure:
General Standards Exam (Core): Covers essential topics including pesticide laws, safety procedures, application methods, and environmental protection. This exam is required for all commercial and private applicators licensed through IDOA.
Category-Specific Exams: Depending on your area of pest control work, you must also pass a relevant category exam. Common categories include:
Structural pest control
Fumigation
Weed control
Public health
Wood-destroying organisms
Passing Scores: A minimum score of 70% is required on each exam to qualify for applicator certification.
How to Register:
You can schedule your exam through the University of Illinois Extension Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP), which offers both in-person training sessions and online options.
For structural pest control exams, the IDPH maintains a separate schedule and application process, which is available on the IDPH Structural Pest Control Program page.
Study Materials:
You can order study guides and manuals for both General Standards and category exams from the University of Illinois Extension.
Preparing with official materials and attending approved training sessions will help ensure success on your licensing exams and compliance with Illinois pesticide regulations.
Pesticide Applicator Specific Requirements: EPA Certification in Illinois
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) establishes national standards for pesticide applicator certification to ensure the safe use of restricted-use pesticides (RUPs). In Illinois, these federal guidelines are enforced at the state level by either the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) or the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), depending on the type of pest control work performed.
To comply with EPA certification standards in Illinois, applicators must:
Complete approved training that covers core safety topics, including pesticide handling, application techniques, environmental protection, and label interpretation.
Pass the General Standards (core) exam along with any category-specific exams required for your pest control services (e.g., fumigation, weed control, termite, or structural pest control).
Maintain certification by meeting continuing education or recertification exam requirements every three years (IDOA) or annually (IDPH).
Adhere to state regulations on recordkeeping and RUP usage, and ensure all pesticide applications are compliant with federal and Illinois laws.
For more on how EPA rules apply in Illinois and how to become a certified pesticide applicator, visit the EPA’s Certification of Pesticide Applicators page.
Illinois-Specific Pesticide Applicator Requirements
In addition to federal EPA certification standards, Illinois imposes its own state-level regulatory requirements for pesticide applicators and pest control businesses. These rules are enforced by the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), depending on the nature of your pest control work.
Key Illinois-Specific Requirements:
Recordkeeping and Reporting: Licensed applicators must maintain detailed records of pesticide use, including the product name, EPA registration number, application rate, location, and date of use. These records must be retained for a minimum of 2 years and made available upon request by IDOA or IDPH.
Business Licensing: If you operate a pest control company in Illinois, you must apply for a Pesticide Applicator Business License through IDOA or a Structural Pest Control Business License through IDPH, depending on the services offered. This includes submitting proof of liability insurance.
Annual License Renewal: Applicators certified through IDPH must renew their license annually. IDOA applicator licenses are valid for three years but require continuing education or a recertification exam to be renewed.
Public Health Protections: Structural pest control operators must comply with stricter safety protocols when working in sensitive environments such as schools, healthcare facilities, or food establishments.
Non-resident Applicators: Applicators from outside Illinois may apply for reciprocal certification, but they must follow Illinois regulations and may be required to pass state-specific exams. Learn more about reciprocity and licensing for non-residents.
Understanding and complying with these Illinois-specific pesticide laws ensures that your business remains fully licensed, avoids penalties, and operates responsibly within the state's regulatory frameworks.
Ready to Get Certified in Illinois?
Obtaining your pest control license in Illinois is a practical step toward building a reliable career or growing a compliant and professional pest control business.
Earning the proper credentials is essential whether you aim to become a certified applicator or expand your services to structural pest control, fumigation, or weed control.
Looking to streamline your day-to-day operations?
Discover how FieldRoutes pest control software streamlines scheduling, invoicing, compliance, and more—all from a single, cloud-based dashboard.
Stay informed, get certified, and take your pest management career or company to the next level.
Illinois Pest Control License FAQs
What Is the Mean Salary for a Pest Control Technician in Illinois?
A pest control technician in Illinois earns a competitive wage that reflects their training, certification, and area of operation. With consistent demand for pest management services, the field offers solid earning potential and long-term stability.
According to Glassdoor, the mean annual wage for pest control workers in Illinois is approximately $50,558. Entry-level technicians generally earn around $35,000, while experienced professionals and certified applicators can make $55,000 or more, depending on their license category, geographic region, and specializations such as fumigation or termite control.
Professionals working in metro areas like Chicago tend to earn more due to higher demand and service rates. Running your own pest control company can significantly boost your income, particularly if you expand into services like weed control, wood-destroying organisms inspections, or structural pest control.
With the right applicator license, targeted service offerings, and smart operations software like FieldRoutes, pest control technicians in Illinois can turn a steady job into a profitable business.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Pest Control License in Illinois?
The timeline to obtain a pest control license in Illinois depends on your experience level and how quickly you complete the required training and exams.
Here’s a general breakdown:
Experienced candidates who meet the prerequisites and pass the exams can complete the process in 2–3 months.
New applicants without prior experience may take 6–12 months or longer, especially if they need to complete required training or gain supervised field experience.
Licensing involves several steps:
Completing training approved by the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA)
Scheduling and passing the licensing exam
Submitting your application and paying the license fee
If starting a pest control business, also apply for a business license and submit proof of insurance
Processing times vary depending on the volume of applications and the availability of exams. Staying proactive by scheduling and preparing with approved study materials can expedite the process.
How Much Does It Cost To Get a Pest Control License in Illinois?
The cost of getting a pest control license in Illinois varies depending on the license type and whether you are applying as an individual or a business. According to the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA), all fees listed below are current as of 2024.
License Fees (Valid for 3 Years)
Commercial Applicator: $240
Commercial Operator (for-hire): $180
Commercial Not-For-Hire Applicator: $120
Commercial Not-For-Hire Operator: $90
Private Applicator (for agricultural use): $60
Pesticide Dealer License: $350
Additional Business Costs
Product Registration: $1,000 for the company plus $800 per product, valid for two years.
Liability Insurance: Required for all commercial applicators and pest control businesses.
Exam and Study Material Costs
Exams: In-person testing offered by IDOA is provided free of charge. Online exams may carry a separate proctoring fee.
Study Materials: Manuals from the University of Illinois Extension PSEP generally cost between $10 and $20 each, depending on the license category.
For a full list of current fees, visit the IDOA pesticide licensing page.
Who Issues Pest Control Licenses in Illinois?
In Illinois, pest control licenses are issued by two separate agencies, depending on the type of work:
The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) oversees licensing for most pesticide applicators, including those involved in agricultural, turf, ornamental, and commercial pest control services not involving structures.
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) regulates and issues licenses related to structural pest control, which includes the use of pesticides in and around buildings, homes, schools, and commercial properties.
Both agencies ensure that licensed individuals and businesses meet all training, examination, insurance, and recordkeeping requirements. Applicators must follow agency-specific guidelines to maintain compliance and legally operate within the state.
For more information on licensing and certification requirements, visit the official IDOA Certification & Licensing page or the IDPH Structural Pest Control Program.
Does My Illinois Pest Control License Work in Other States?
Illinois allows for reciprocity in some instances, enabling licensed pesticide applicators to apply for certification in other states without retaking the exams. However, reciprocal recognition depends entirely on the policies of the receiving state.
While Illinois does not publish an official list of reciprocal states, many states—particularly those in the Midwest—may accept Illinois licenses if you meet specific criteria such as:
Holding a current, valid Illinois applicator license
Providing proof of certification and exam completion
Submitting a letter of good standing from the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA)
Meeting any additional licensing, fees, or residency requirements imposed by the other state
If your work extends into structural pest control. In that case, you may also need to coordinate with the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) to ensure your license qualifies under structural-specific guidelines.
To work in another state, contact that state’s Department of Agriculture or Structural Pest Control Board for exact requirements. Some states may require additional exams, continuing education units, or registration of your pest control business.
Before expanding your services, always confirm reciprocity agreements with the regulatory authority in the state where you plan to operate.
What Happens If My Pesticide License Expires in Illinois?
If your Illinois pesticide applicator license expires, you may not legally perform any pesticide application or pest control work involving restricted-use pesticides until the license is renewed.
In Illinois, licenses issued by the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) are valid for three years. To renew your certification:
You must either pass a recertification exam or
Complete the required continuing education hours before the expiration date
Failing to renew on time may result in:
Suspension of your certification status
The need to retake both the General Standards and category-specific exams
Temporary or permanent interruption of your ability to offer pest control services legally
Licenses must be renewed annually for those licensed under the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). Missing the deadline may require additional CEUs or an examination, depending on the length of time the license has lapsed.
To avoid delays or penalties, track your expiration date closely and schedule your renewal requirements well in advance.
Continuing Education
In Illinois, licensed pesticide applicators and operators must meet continuing education or recertification requirements to maintain their valid credentials. The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) enforces these standards for individuals working with restricted-use pesticides in agricultural, turf, ornamental, and structural environments.
You must either:
Retake the licensing exams before your certification expires, or
Complete state-approved continuing education courses during your 3-year license cycle
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) may require annual continuing education units (CEUs) for structural pest control licensing, depending on the license type.
Approved training is offered by the University of Illinois Extension’s Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP), industry associations, and other IDOA-authorized providers. These programs typically cover:
Pesticide laws and safety
Integrated pest management (IPM)
Environmental protection
Best practices for pesticide application
Failing to meet CEU or recertification requirements may result in license expiration, requiring you to retake all applicable exams. Staying current ensures legal compliance and enhances your credibility as a certified applicator in the state of Illinois.
Resources
Here are some trusted resources to help you obtain, manage, and maintain your pest control license in Illinois:
Utilizing these resources will help you stay compliant with state and federal laws while enhancing your skills and expanding your pest control business.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or financial advice. While every effort was made to use official sources, you should always verify requirements with the Illinois government's websites.
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