Statewide & Federal
NYS Pesticide Applicator Licensing
If you plan to buy or apply restricted-use pesticides on your own farm, you’ll need a DEC Private Pesticide Applicator Certification.
What It Offers
- Certification lets you legally purchase and apply restricted-use pesticides to produce an agricultural commodity on land you own, rent, or farm for an employer.
- You can qualify through pesticide eligibility training, documented experience applying pesticides, or a relevant education background.
- Certifications are administered by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC); exams are commonly offered through Cornell Cooperative Extension offices statewide.
How to Apply
- Complete DEC-approved pesticide eligibility training - often offered through your county Cornell Cooperative Extension office (see your region's resource page for local CCE contacts).
- Submit your application through New York Business Express or directly to DEC.
- Sit for the private applicator exam at a scheduled CCE testing location.
- Allow 14-28 days for processing - common reasons for delay are incomplete paperwork or insufficient documented training.
Source: New York Business Express and NYS DEC pesticide certification pages. Training schedules vary by county - check your regional CCE office for current class dates.
