Dealer Manager License

Businesses that distribute non-home and garden pesticides must hold a Pesticide Dealer license from the Department of Revenue’s Business Licensing Service. Anytime these pesticides are distributed, a person licensed with WSDA as a Dealer Manager must be present.

Because exams are required, you must make your initial application at a WSDA testing session. These are offered at a number of statewide testing locations. WSDA does reciprocate with some state and federal licenses so testing may not be necessary. Go to the online reciprocal licensing information for details.

You will need to complete a Business License Application and an Agricultural Addendum. The Business License Application is available at https://dor.wa.gov/open-business/apply-business-license and the Agricultural Addendum at https://dor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/legacy/Docs/forms/BLS/700307.pdf.  You need to submit both forms even if you have previously submitted the Business Application. You will need to supply the name of your employee licensed with WSDA as a Dealer Manager. Note: Out-of state pesticide dealers are exempt from the requirement to employ a licensed Dealer Manager.

The license costs $45. In addition, the applicant must pay a $25 testing fee each time they take pesticide exams.

License application fees are non-refundable.

Effective November 1st, 2021, all pesticide license fees increased as a result of Senate Bill 5317. $7 of every license paid will help support the Washington State University's pesticide safet education program.

Applications are completed at the time of testing. The first time an application is submitted in a calendar year, the license fee of $45 is required. Each time tests are taken, a $25 testing fee and picture ID is required.

Applicant must pass required exams and have paid all fees before a license is issued. License is only valid when working for a business licensed as a Pesticide Dealer with Department of Revenue’s Master License Service. See fact sheet on registering a business.

Once all requirements have been met (complete application submitted including fee and appropriate exams passed), the license is normally issued within 1 week. However, the work unit experiences a heavier than normal workload from December – March and licenses can take 2 – 4 weeks to issue.

The license is annually renewed but in a five-year recertification cycle during which time continuing education credits must be earned. An alternative to recertification is to retest every five years.

The requirements for Dealer Manager licensing are found in the Washington Pesticide Control Act (chapter 15.58 RCW) and the General Pesticide Rules (WAC 16-228).
Pesticide Dealer License: RCW 15.58.180
Dealer Manager License: RCW 15.58.200
Testing: WAC 16-228-1547

Upon notice by the Department to deny, revoke, or suspend a license, a person may request a hearing under chapter 34.05 RCW.

Pesticide Licensing
Toll-free: 877-301-4555
Email: License@agr.wa.gov