Career roadmap
How to Become a Landscaper
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a landscaper, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a landscaper: (1) get hired on a crew, (2) learn equipment and safety, (3) build plant knowledge, (4) earn certifications, (5) advance. Most people need about 1–4 weeks. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a landscaper
Get hired on a crew
Start as a laborer.
Learn equipment and safety
Mowers, trimmers and blowers.
Build plant knowledge
Learn plants and pruning.
Earn certifications
Pesticide or irrigation.
Advance
Become a crew leader or start a business.
Education and training requirements
No formal education is required. Landscapers learn on the job.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | No formal educational credential |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Short-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | 1–4 weeks |
Certifications and licenses
- NALP Landscape Industry Certified Technician: National landscape credential.
- Pesticide applicator license: Needed to apply pesticides for hire.
- Irrigation Association certification: Irrigation credentials.
- CDL: For larger trucks.
Skills to build now
Start with mowing and trimming, planting, and pruning, and practice stamina and reliability. Learning the landscaper vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Landscape Laborer: Learn the work.
- Landscaper: Handle installs and maintenance.
- Crew Leader: Lead crews.
- Landscaping Supervisor or Owner: Run operations.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Landscaper training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a landscaper?
Most people need about 1–4 weeks of training. No formal education is required. Landscapers learn on the job.
Do you need a degree to be a landscaper?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for landscapers?
Common credentials include NALP Landscape Industry Certified Technician, Pesticide applicator license, Irrigation Association certification, and CDL. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 37-3011 (Landscaping and groundskeeping workers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Landscaping and groundskeeping workers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.