Career roadmap
How to Become a Pest Control Technician
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a pest control technician, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a pest control technician: (1) finish high school, (2) get hired as a trainee, (3) pass state exams, (4) build specialties, (5) advance. Most people need about 1–3 months. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a pest control technician
Finish high school
A clean driving record helps.
Get hired as a trainee
Companies train you on pests, products and safety.
Pass state exams
Earn your applicator license for the right categories.
Build specialties
Learn termites, bed bugs, wildlife or commercial accounts.
Advance
Become a lead tech, inspector, branch manager or business owner.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma is typical. Employers provide training, and technicians must pass state exams for a pesticide applicator license or work under a licensed applicator.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | 1–3 months |
Certifications and licenses
- State commercial pesticide applicator license: Required to apply restricted pesticides or work independently in most states.
- Structural pest control category: State category for treating pests in buildings.
- QualityPro certification: NPMA program recognizing companies and technicians.
- Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE): Advanced credential from the Entomological Society of America.
Skills to build now
Start with pest identification, integrated pest management, and pesticide application, and practice customer service and independence. Learning the pest control technician vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Pest Control Trainee: Learn pests, products and routes.
- Licensed Technician: Service routes independently.
- Specialist or Inspector: Focus on termites, bed bugs or commercial accounts.
- Branch Manager or Business Owner: Lead a branch or run a company.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Pest Control Technician 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 training take?
Many companies train new technicians in one to three months.
How long does it take to become a pest control technician?
Most people need about 1–3 months of training. A high school diploma is typical. Employers provide training, and technicians must pass state exams for a pesticide applicator license or work under a licensed applicator.
Do you need a degree to be a pest control technician?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for pest control technicians?
Common credentials include State commercial pesticide applicator license, Structural pest control category, QualityPro certification, and Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE). States regulate pesticide use. Technicians generally need a state applicator license or must work under the supervision of a licensed applicator, with continuing education to renew.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 37-2021 (Pest control workers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Pest control 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.