Applicator License (Structural Pest Control) License in California
Quick Answer
California licenses structural pest control at three levels: Applicator (entry-level, $55 exam, $10 license), Field Representative (supervised experience required), and Operator (2+ years experience, $65 exam, $120 license). All require passing branch-specific exams through the Structural Pest Control Board.
- Education Required
- 12 hours
- Exam
- Structural Pest Control Board Examination
- Total Cost
- $175 (est.)
- Timeline
- 1-6 months (Applicator); 2-4 years (Operator)
- Renewal
- Every Triennial (3 years)
Requirements
Applicator License (Structural Pest Control) license in California
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $10
- Exam Fee
- $55
- Renewal Fee
- $10
- Total Estimated Cost
- $175
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Applicator License (Structural Pest Control) license in California. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the California licensing board.
Applicator License (Structural Pest Control) Salary in California
Entry Level
$35,780
Median
$45,370
Experienced
$59,180
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Applicator License (Structural Pest Control) in California.
- 1
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$10.
- 2
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 1-6 months (Applicator); 2-4 years (Operator).
Applicator License (Structural Pest Control) Licensing in California: What to Know
California has a uniquely detailed pest control licensing system administered by two separate boards: the Structural Pest Control Board (under DCA) for structural work in Branch 1 (Fumigation), Branch 2 (General Pest), and Branch 3 (Wood-Destroying Organisms), and the Department of Pesticide Regulation for agricultural pest control. The entry-level Applicator license requires an exam ($55), costs $10, and renews triennially with 12 hours CE. Field Representatives need 40-100 hours supervised experience depending on branch. Operators must have 2+ years experience (3,200 hours) plus board-approved coursework. California also requires Live Scan fingerprinting ($49+). Agricultural pest control advisers need a bachelor's degree and pass multiple category exams.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Applicator License (Structural Pest Control) license cost in California?
- The estimated total cost is $175, including application fees, exam fees ($55), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Applicator License (Structural Pest Control) license in California?
- The process typically takes 1-6 months (Applicator); 2-4 years (Operator), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Applicator License (Structural Pest Control) license in California?
- You need to pass the Structural Pest Control Board Examination. N/A
Considering another state?
Compare Applicator License (Structural Pest Control) requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.