Pennsylvania Pesticide Applicator License Exam Requirements
What Pennsylvania's pesticide core exam is, who takes it, and what passes.
| Exam | Who takes it | Given by | Questions | Time | Pass | Fee | Sources checked |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Core | Pennsylvania commercial and public pesticide applicator candidates | PDA, on paper or at Metro test centers | 50 | Not published | 35 of 50 (70%) | $50 on paper; computer exams cost more |
Which exams does a Pennsylvania pesticide applicator take?
Commercial and public applicators pass the core exam and one or more category exams. Private applicators take a separate private applicator exam, and registered technicians are registered after training (PDA, Types of Pesticide Applicators and Technicians).
What score passes?
35 of the 50 questions (70%) (PDA).
How long is the exam?
50 multiple-choice questions. PDA doesn't publish a time limit for the core exam on its own; paper sessions run 3 hours for as many exams as you sign up for (PDA).
Who gives the exams?
PDA, in person: on paper, usually at a PDA regional office or county extension office, or on a computer at a Metro test center, which costs more (PDA).
Does this cover structural pest control?
Yes. PDA certifies structural applicators (household and health related pests, wood destroying pests and structural fumigation) as commercial applicators, and they pass the same core exam.