Skip to main content

Pesticide Applicator Certification

Pesticide applicator in personal protective equipment
Michigan Agriculture Logo

Pesticide Applicator Certification

Contact Information

Quick Links

Pesticide Certification

Individuals who apply pesticides for agricultural or commercial purposes in Michigan may be required to become certified or registered with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). To be awarded a certification or registration credential by MDARD, applicators must apply for the credential and pass exam(s) to demonstrate their knowledge of responsible and legal pesticide use. MDARD also approves recertification seminars that existing applicators can attend to renew their credential.

Commercial and registered applicators who are hired to apply pesticides must obtain and follow business licensing requirements to legally provide pesticide application services. Visit MDARD's business licensing webpage to learn how to apply for a business license.

Applicator Credential FAQs

Certification Information

Person pouring pesticide into jug

Renewing a certification or registration

Applicators can renew their certification or registration by taking certification exams or earning recertification seminar credits. Learn more about how to renew an existing credential.
Renewal Process
Wooden scrabble tiles in a field spelling 'seminar'

Recertification Seminars

Applicators can renew their credential by attending educational seminars approved to offer recertification credits. Learn how hosts can offer credits, how applicators can earn credits, or search for upcoming approved seminars.
Recertification Seminars
A notebook with a note on it that says "FAQ".

Certification FAQ

Learn more about how to obtain a credential, certification exams, maintaining a credential, and additional details about registered applicators. 
Pesticide Application Certification Details & FAQ
Pesticide applicator wearing PPE while spraying a chemical

New Certification and Training Requirements

Stay informed as MDARD implements certification and training updates.
Certification and Training
Aerial pesticide application plane flying

Aerial Applicators

Discover Michigan’s additional aerial applicator requirements for crewed and uncrewed aerial applicators operating in the state.
Aerial Pesticide Applicators