PEST CONTROL OPERATOR License in Tennessee
Quick Answer
Tennessee licenses Pest Control Operators through the Tennessee Pest Control Board, requiring a related degree or 2 years of experience (or combination with CE), plus passage of category and identification exams. Licenses renew every 2 years; certification every 3 years.
- Exam
- Category and Identification Examination
- Timeline
- 2-3 years (education + experience + exam)
- Renewal
- Every Biennial (2 years, license); Triennial (3 years, certification)
Requirements
PEST CONTROL OPERATOR license in Tennessee
PEST CONTROL OPERATOR Salary in Tennessee
Entry Level
$29,460
Median
$43,870
Experienced
$65,050
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed PEST CONTROL OPERATOR in Tennessee.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Specific course required
- 2
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — Category and Identification Examination
- 3
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency.
- 4
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-3 years (education + experience + exam).
PEST CONTROL OPERATOR Licensing in Tennessee: What to Know
Tennessee licenses Pest Control Operators through the Department of Agriculture and the Tennessee Pest Control Board. Applicants must satisfy education, experience, and examination requirements: either a related degree (or equivalent) with relevant major/minor, or 2 years of full-time work experience under a licensee, or a combination of experience, education, and 24 continuing education units. The exam consists of a 2-hour category exam and a 3-hour identification exam. Licenses are valid for 2 years; EPA pesticide certification must be renewed every 3 years. Technicians/Solicitors need CORE and category certification, and must be at least 16 years old. Professional organizations include the Tennessee Pest Control Association and Professional Lawn Care Association of America.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a PEST CONTROL OPERATOR license in Tennessee?
- The process typically takes 2-3 years (education + experience + exam), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a PEST CONTROL OPERATOR license in Tennessee?
- You need to pass the Category and Identification Examination. Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare PEST CONTROL OPERATOR requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.