Public Operator License
What is the purpose of this license?
The purpose is to license employees of public agencies that apply restricted use pesticides or any pesticide through power equipment. Pesticides include herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, rodenticides, fumigants, etc.
What activities require this license and who needs to get it?
Applying restricted use pesticides or any pesticide through power equipment as part of one’s employment with a governmental agency. This license is not required of governmental research personnel unless applying restricted use pesticides.
How do I apply?
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.
How much will it cost?
The license costs $50. In addition, the applicant must pay a $25 testing fee each time they take pesticide exams. Note: The license application fee is not required for governmental employees licensed only to work in the health vector field.
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.
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.
Do I need to include anything with my application?
Applications are completed at the time of testing. The first time an application is submitted in a calendar year, the license fee of $50 is required. Each time tests are taken, a $25 testing fee and picture ID is required.
Is the decision to approve dependent on anything besides the information in my application?
Applicant must pass required exams and have paid all fees before a license is issued. The license is only valid while making pesticide applications as part of employment with a public agency.
When will I receive my license?
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.
How long is it valid?
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 year.
What is the legal authority?
The requirements for Public Operator licensing are found in the Washington Pesticide Application Act (chapter 17.21 RCW) and the General Pesticide Rules (WAC 16-228).
License: RCW 17.21.220
Testing: WAC 16-228-1545
License: RCW 17.21.220
Testing: WAC 16-228-1545
What is the Appeal Process?
Upon notice by the Department to deny, revoke, or suspend a license, a person may request a hearing under chapter 34.05 RCW.