Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Pesticide and Structural Pest Inspector Licenses

• For Those Considering a License
• For Those Who Have a License
• Recertification-Related FAQs
• General FAQs
  

FAQs For Those Considering a License

1. How do I get study materials for taking exams?
   Study materials are provided by Washington State University (WSU) Cooperative Extension Bulletin Office. You may contact them toll free at (800) 723-1763, visit their website and click "Order Study Materials" on the left-hand menu or you print out their order form and mail it in.
   
   
2. Can I pay for my Pesticide/SPI License with a credit card over the phone?
   No, but, you can go online to renew your license with an electronic check payment.
   
   
3. Do you accept purchase orders from public agencies?
   No.
   
   
4. How much does it cost to take the exams?
   There is no fee to take exams, however there is a license application fee based on the type of license(s) you need. For license fees, go to page 2 of our Pesticide/Pest Inspector Licensing Factsheet.
   
   
5. When and where are pesticide/Structural Pest Inspector license exams given?
   Testing sessions are conducted at many locations and times throughout the state. For a listing that includes driving directions, go to our website.
   
   
6. How do I make a reservation for a pesticide or Structural Pest Inspector license exam?
   You can make a reservation by calling Licensing Staff toll free at (877) 301-4555.
   
   
7. What items am I allowed to bring with me to exam sessions?
   Picture I.D. and any applicable fees are the only items allowed in an exam session. Cell phones and study materials are strictly prohibited. For additional information, see the fact sheet Preparing for Exams (English/Spanish).
   
   
8. How long does each exam take?
   The length of time varies by test and individual but a general rule of thumb is to allow 1-2 hours per exam. All exams are multiple-choice. One, the Structural Pest Inspector exam, includes both a written and practical exam. The latter includes samples of wood destroying organisms and their damage.
   
   
9. What is the process to get a Commercial Applicator license?
   For complete details on obtaining a Commercial Applicator license, go to our website.
   
   
10. Once all requirements are met, how long does it take to get a license?
    If all licensing requirements are met, it will generally take approximately 10-15 business days. Please be aware that we experience very large volumes of both new and renewing licenses from Dec. 16 - Jan. 31 of each year so expect some delay during this period.

1. How do I check the status of my license?
   You can check the status of your license on our website by searching on your license number or name on the License Search page.
   
   
2. How do I notify you of changes to my name, address, phone or email?
   To report changes, you can either email or call toll free at (877) 301-4555. Be sure to include your name and license number.
   
   
3. I have a license in another state. How do I get a Washington license?
   In some cases, you can obtain a Washington license based upon a license from another state. To verify if you meet the reciprocal requirements, go to our website.
   
   
4. I have lost my plastic license card. How can I get a replacement?
   You may email or call our toll free line at (877) 301-4555 to request a replacement card at no cost. Be sure to include your license number, name and current mailing address.
   
   Note: There are additional renewal-related FAQs for Commercial Applicators and all other license types on our License Renewal webpage.

1. How do I check my recertification credit status?
   You may view your recertification status on-line. After locating your license record from the License Search page, select any of the license types to view its credit status.
   
   
2. How do I sponsor a course for recertification credits?
   For a course to be accredited, the agenda must be approved by WSDA prior to the program. Only topics relevant to pest management, pest inspections or pesticides will receive credit. If you would like to sponsor a recertification course, go to our website.
   
   
3. How do I find recertification courses?
   For a listing of all WSDA-approved recertification courses, go to our Recertification Course Search page. You can search a number of ways. Hit "Submit" and all open, on-site courses will be listed. You can also search on other types of courses (Internet, self-study and ongoing) and by county, subject, and language. WSU's Pesticide Education Program offers a number of on-line courses. Visit their website to learn more.

[Top of Page]

1. Can I check the status of someone else's license?

If you know the license number or name of the licensee, you can check the license status by going to the License Search page.


2. How can I check if a Pest Control Company, Landscape Company or Structural Pest Inspector is currently licensed?
   You can check on a company's licensing status by going to the License Search page and entering the company name in the "Single Business" section.

WSDA conducts pre-license training in Spanish through its Farmworker Education Program.

Licensees must comply with a number of pesticide regulations.  To learn more, visit the Compliance Section.

[Top of Page]