Delaware Pesticide Applicator License Exam Requirements
What Delaware's pesticide core exam is, who takes it, and what passes.
| Exam | Who takes it | Given by | Questions | Time | Pass | Fee | Sources checked |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Core | Delaware pesticide applicator candidates taking DDA's core exam | DDA, in person at the Delaware State Fairgrounds in Harrington | Not published | Not published | 70% | $30 exam fee for commercial applicators (waived at first for private and government applicators) |
Which exams does a Delaware pesticide applicator take?
Commercial and government applicators pass the core exam and their category exams; private applicators pass the core exam (DDA Pesticide Certification FAQs). Commercial applicators must also work for a business with a DDA pesticide business license.
What score passes?
70% or more on each exam (3 Del. Admin. Code 601-8.2.4). A failed commercial exam can be retaken once, at least 45 days later, and no category may be taken more than twice in 12 months (601-8.2.5).
How long is the exam?
DDA allows up to three hours for all the exams you take at one sitting, and every exam is closed book (DDA 2026 exam schedule; 601-8.2.1). DDA doesn't publish the number of questions.
Who gives the exams?
DDA, in person at the Delaware State Fairgrounds in Harrington. Register and pay at least one week ahead and bring a government-issued photo ID. Commercial applicators pay a $30 exam fee; it is waived at first for private and government applicators (DDA 2026 exam schedule).
Is there a minimum age?
Yes. An applicant for certification must be at least 18 (3 Del. C. § 1216).
Does this cover structural pest control?
Yes. General Pest Control (7A), Wood Destroying Pest Control (7B) and non-agricultural Fumigation (7C) are commercial categories under the same DDA rules (3 Del. Admin. Code 601-7.0), so structural applicants take the same core exam.