Utah Pest Control License & Certification (Updated in 2025)
Obtaining a pest control license in Utah involves several specific steps, including selecting the appropriate license type, understanding regulatory guidelines, and passing exams administered by the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF). Whether you plan to become a commercial pesticide applicator, a non-commercial applicator, or a private applicator, it is crucial to understand Utah’s licensing procedures clearly.
This guide covers the various Utah pest control license types, eligibility criteria, exam requirements, associated licensing costs, and information about Utah’s reciprocity agreements for pest control company field representatives. It also provides details about the required continuing education and important state-specific regulations for implementing pest control work.
By following this comprehensive guide, you will confidently navigate the process of securing your Utah pest control license and successfully launching your pest management career or business.
What Is a Pest Control License?
A pest control license is a certification issued by the state of Utah, permitting individuals and businesses to apply pesticides legally and professionally. The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) oversees pest control licensing to ensure applicators and pest control operators follow strict safety standards and environmental regulations.
Utah provides several types of licenses depending on the nature of pesticide use, including Commercial Applicator, Non-Commercial Applicator, and Private Applicator licenses. Each type of license requires specific training, examinations, and ongoing continuing education to maintain compliance.
Identifying the appropriate Utah pest control license is essential for anyone pursuing certification in pest management within the state.
Do You Need a Pest Control License in Utah?
In Utah, you must hold a valid pest control license issued by the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food if you apply restricted-use pesticides, perform pest control services commercially, or apply pesticides as part of your employment. Even individuals applying restricted-use pesticides on their agricultural land must obtain a Private Applicator License. Operating without the appropriate pest control license can result in penalties, fines, or other legal consequences.
What Are the Licensing Requirements for Pest Control Contractors in Utah?
Pest control contractors in Utah must obtain the appropriate Commercial Pesticide Applicator License from the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food before providing professional pest control services.
To become licensed in Utah, pest control contractors must:
Complete UDAF-approved certification programs or demonstrate adequate industry experience.
Pass the state-administered pesticide licensing examinations, including both a core exam and relevant category-specific tests, and reach the minimum score required.
Pay the exam fee associated with the licensing exams, which varies depending on the category and requirements.
Submit proof of financial responsibility, such as liability insurance, to secure a Commercial Pesticide Business License (required for each business location offering pest control services).
These requirements ensure contractors meet Utah’s stringent safety, environmental, and regulatory standards for pesticide applications.
What Are the Different Types of Pest Control Licenses in Utah?
In Utah, pest control licenses issued by the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) vary based on the nature of pesticide applications. Each license category requires specific training, examinations, certifications, and ongoing continuing education to maintain compliance.
Below are the primary pest control license types available in Utah:
License Category | Description |
Commercial Applicator License | Required for individuals who apply pesticides for hire or compensation. Applicants must pass the core examination plus at least one category-specific test. |
Non-Commercial Applicator License | This is for individuals who apply restricted-use pesticides as part of their employment duties (e.g., government employees or institutional staff) but do not offer services commercially. |
Private Applicator License | Intended for individuals who apply restricted-use pesticides on their own or their employer’s agricultural property. |
Commercial Pesticide Business License | Required for businesses providing commercial pesticide application services. Businesses must maintain proof of financial responsibility, such as liability insurance. |
Restricted-Use Pesticide Dealer License | Necessary for businesses selling restricted-use pesticides directly to licensed applicators. |
Each license category ensures Utah pest control professionals have the expertise and certifications required to perform safe and effective pest management. For more details, review the Utah Pesticide Applicator’s License Categories and Descriptions.
What Are the Steps to Get a Pest Control License in Utah?
Obtaining a pest control license in Utah involves completing specific training, examination, and regulatory requirements established by the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF). Follow these steps to ensure compliance:
Step 1: Determine the Appropriate License Type
Identify whether you need a Commercial Applicator License, Non-Commercial Applicator License, or a Private Applicator License based on the type of pest control services you intend to provide.
Step 2: Complete Required Training or Gain Relevant Experience
Applicants must either complete UDAF-approved training programs, obtain a degree in a relevant field, such as Agricultural Pest Control Adviser and Operator from a community college in California, or have equivalent documented work experience in pest management.
Step 3: Schedule and Take Licensing Exams
Arrange your licensing exams through UDAF. You must pass both the core examination (covering pesticide laws, safety, and environmental regulations) and category-specific tests relevant to your license type.
For exam scheduling and additional inquiries, it is essential to contact the UDAF.gov website.
Step 4: Submit Your License Application and Fees
After passing the exams, submit your application along with the licensing fees through the UDAF pesticide licensing portal. Commercial applicators must provide proof of financial responsibility, typically liability insurance.
Step 5: Obtain a Commercial Pesticide Business License (If Applicable)
If offering commercial pest control services, you must also apply for a Commercial Pesticide Business License, which includes proof of liability insurance and registration of your business with at least one licensed commercial applicator employed.
Step 6: Maintain Certification Through Continuing Education
Licensed applicators must complete continuing education units (CEUs) before license expiration to avoid renewal penalties or retaking exams. Utah licenses are renewed every three years, with specific continuing education unit (CEU) requirements based on your license category.
Step 7: Maintain Certification Through Continuing Education
All licensed applicators in Utah are required to complete the necessary continuing education units (CEUs) before their licenses expire. Failure to renew on time may result in penalties or require retaking the licensing exams.
What Business Owners Need to Know
Starting a pest control business in Utah requires obtaining both a Commercial Pesticide Applicator License and a separate Commercial Pesticide Business License from the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF). Each business location must be individually licensed, with at least one licensed commercial applicator employed per location.
Additionally, commercial pest control businesses in Utah must:
Provide proof of liability insurance coverage meeting UDAF financial responsibility requirements.
Maintain detailed records of pesticide applications and verify that all technicians are properly licensed.
Comply with state and federal pesticide regulations, including worker safety and environmental protection guidelines.
Pest control management software, such as FieldRoutes, can benefit businesses by streamlining daily operations, including scheduling, invoicing, and tracking regulatory compliance.
How to Get a Pest Control License in Utah
To obtain a pest control license in Utah, you must complete approved training, pass state exams, and meet the regulatory requirements established by the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF). Whether you’re applying as a private applicator, commercial applicator, or business owner, following the correct steps is essential for legal compliance.
Work Experience or Training
For a Commercial Applicator License, applicants must either complete UDAF-approved training or demonstrate verifiable work experience in pest control to become a certified applicator. Some license categories, such as fumigation or structural pest control, may require additional knowledge and practical expertise.
Apply to Take the Exam
After meeting experience or training requirements, you must schedule and take the state-administered exams through UDAF. Exams include a core pesticide safety test and a category-specific test related to your field of study. For exam prep and study materials, visit Utah State University Extension’s Pesticide Safety Education Program.
Commercial Pesticide Business License
If you plan to operate a pest control business, you must apply for a Commercial Pesticide Business License in addition to your applicator certification. This business license requires:
Proof of liability insurance.
Registration for each business location.
At least one licensed commercial applicator per location.
Ongoing Compliance
Once licensed, businesses must comply with all applicable UDAF regulations, including maintaining detailed records, completing continuing education units (CEUs), and renewing licenses every three years.
Utah Pest Control Training Programs and Schools
Aspiring pest control professionals in Utah can access several state-approved training programs to meet licensing and certification requirements. These programs are designed to ensure applicators understand pesticide safety, application methods, and regulatory compliance by the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) standards.
Utah State University Extension – Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP)
Offers in-person and online training for private, commercial, and non-commercial applicators.
Provides exam preparation materials, including core and category-specific content.
Covers Utah-specific pesticide laws, safe handling practices, and environmental protection guidelines.
Offers UDAF-approved online courses for multiple certification categories.
Includes continuing education units (CEUs) required for license renewal.
Covers topics such as ornamental and turf pest control, right-of-way applications, and general safety.
Offers on-demand and live webinar training for continuing education unit (CEU) credit.
Keeps professionals up to date on Utah regulations and best practices in pest management.
Accessible for both new and experienced applicators seeking recertification or additional licensing categories.
These programs are essential resources for preparing for Utah pesticide exams and maintaining licensure through continuing education.
Utah Licensing Exam Details
To become a licensed pest control applicator in Utah, candidates must complete certification, pass required exams, and meet the regulatory standards set by the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF). This process ensures all pesticide applicators operate safely and comply with state and federal laws.
Certification Requirements
Before applying for a license, individuals must pass both a core exam and one or more category-specific exams, depending on the type of pest control services they plan to offer. Obtaining pesticide certification is essential for employees who handle pesticides, ensuring they are trained in safety protocols and emergency procedures. Certification categories in Utah include:
Agricultural Plant Pest Control
Ornamental and Turf Pest Control
Aquatic Pest Control
Right-of-Way Pest Control
Structural and Health-Related Pest Control
Wood Preservation and Wood-Destroying Organisms
Public Health Pest Control
A full list of categories is available in the Utah Pesticide Applicator’s License Categories and Descriptions.
Licensing Examination Process
To take the pesticide applicator exam in Utah, follow these steps:
Submit an Application – Complete the appropriate forms through the UDAF pesticide licensing portal.
Schedule the Exam – UDAF offers exams at designated testing centres throughout the state.
Prepare for the Exam – Study materials are available through the Utah State University Extension Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP). These materials cover pesticide laws, safety protocols, and best practices for the use of pesticides.
Take the Exam—The exams consist of multiple-choice questions. To pass both the core and any category-specific exams, you must score a minimum of 70%.
Post-Exam Licensing Requirements
Once you pass the exams:
Pay the applicable license fee: $65 for commercial applicators, $20 for private and non-commercial applicators.
Maintain detailed pesticide application records under UDAF regulations.
Renew your license every three years.
Complete the required continuing education units (CEUs) to remain in compliance.
For complete licensing instructions and documentation, visit the UDAF pesticide licensing page.
EPA Certification Requirements for Utah Pesticide Applicators
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets nationwide standards for pesticide applicator certification to ensure the safe use of restricted-use pesticides (RUPs). In Utah, the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) enforces these federal guidelines by requiring all commercial, non-commercial, and private applicators to complete EPA-compliant training and pass relevant exams.
All applicators must adhere to label instructions, personal safety protocols, and environmental regulations. Failure to meet certification requirements may lead to license suspension, penalties, or legal consequences.
Utah-Specific Requirements for Pesticide Applicators
Utah has unique state regulations that extend beyond federal EPA mandates. The state's regulatory division overseeing pest control services requires companies to:
Obtain a valid Commercial Pesticide Business License.
Employ at least one licensed Commercial Applicator at each business location.
Provide proof of liability insurance as part of the licensing process.
In addition, all licensed applicators are required to:
Maintain detailed pesticide application records for at least two years, including the date, location, weather conditions, and the product used.
Follow Utah’s Worker Protection Standard (WPS) compliance guidelines.
Ready to Get Certified?
Becoming a certified pesticide applicator in Utah is a valuable step toward establishing a reliable and compliant pest control career or business. The applicator licensing process involves determining the necessary license type, completing training, passing the required exams, and maintaining continuing education to comply with state regulations. Once you’ve completed these steps and submitted your license application, you’ll be fully equipped to operate within Utah’s regulatory framework.
To learn more about licensing and training, visit the Utah State University Extension Pesticide Safety Education Program.
Utah Pest Control License FAQs
Who Issues Pest Control Licenses in Utah?
The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) issues licenses for pesticide applicators and pest control businesses, ensuring compliance with state and federal pesticide laws.
Does My Utah License Work in Other States?
Utah recognizes reciprocal certification for applicators licensed in other states, provided they submit a Utah application, a letter of good standing from the original state, and proof of identification. However, reciprocal certification does not grant automatic licensure—you must still hold a Utah-specific license to operate within the state.
The states with reciprocal agreements include:
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Please note that while Utah may recognize certifications from these states, you must still obtain a Utah-specific license to operate legally within the state. Reciprocity applies to certification but does not extend to licensing. For detailed information on the application process and requirements, visit the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food's Pesticide Program.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a License?
Utah pesticide licensing fees are as follows:
Commercial Applicator License: $65 (valid for three years)
Non-Commercial Applicator License: $20
Private Applicator License: $20
Commercial Pesticide Business License: $110
Restricted-Use Pesticide Dealer License: $100
All fees are payable through the UDAF licensing portal.
How Long Does It Take to Get a License?
Licensing timelines depend on your ability to complete training, pass exams, and submit required documents. With prompt scheduling and submission, the process typically takes a few weeks to complete.
What Happens If My License Expires?
If your pesticide license expires, you cannot legally apply restricted-use pesticides in Utah until it is renewed. You may need to retake the applicable exams or complete additional continuing education units (CEUs) if you fail to meet renewal deadlines.
Continuing Education Requirements
All licensed applicators in Utah must complete CEUs every three years to maintain certification:
Commercial and Non-Commercial Applicators: 24 CEUs (with required hours in pesticide law, safety, and use)
Private Applicators: 6 CEUs
A maximum of 12 CEUs can be earned online; the remaining must be completed via live webinars or in-person training. Find current offerings via the UDAF Continuing Education Calendar.
Additional Resources
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Always confirm licensing requirements directly with the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food.
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