Pest Control Operator

Exam

Third-party exam

Education

Specific course

Experience

Experience

Background check

Not reported

PEST CONTROL OPERATOR<br><br>A Pest Control Operator applies, for a fee for any substance or mixture of substances or chemicals intended for defoliating or desiccating plants, or for preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating any insects, rodents, fungi, bacteria, weeds or other forms of plant or animal life declared a pest by the Commissioner of Agriculture. Licensing is for one or more categories specified. Must be 18 years of age prior to becoming licensed to apply general or restricted use pesticides. Supervises technicians. <br><br>REQUIREMENTS: <br>Satisfy education and experience and examination requirements. <br><br>EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: <br>A degree or its equivalent with a major or minor in a discipline reasonably related to the category of pest OR at least two years of full time verifiable work experience under a licensee in the category of license applying for in compliance with the rule except the categories of Agricultural-- Ground Equipment and Horticulture-- Lawn and Turf OR a combination of experience, education or 24 continuing education units. <br><br>EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS: <br>Category of license, (2 hours) covers specifics of the category of license. A subsequent exam (3 hours) covers identification relating to the specific category or categories for license. Categories of license are good for 2 years and are required to maintain a current certification to use, buy or sell general or restricted pesticides. <br><br>CONTINUING EDUCATION: <br>Must meet requirements of the licensing every two years and recertification for general or restricted use pesticides every three years. <br><br>PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS: <br>Tennessee Pest Control Association, Professional Lawn Care Association of America, Tennessee Vegetation Management Association, West Tennessee Pest Control Association, Tennessee Plant Food Educational Association, and Tennessee Agricultural Production Association (TAPA).