Licensed pest control technicians in Rhode Island earn competitive salaries. Read this guide to find out how to apply for your license and get a job.

Does Rhode Island require a pest control license?

Rhode Island requires all restricted-use pesticide applicators to be licensed.

Are there different types of licenses for Rhode Island?

Rhode Island pest control applicator license categories are:

• Commercial applicator license
• Private applicator license
• Pesticide dealer license

Commercial pesticide applicator licensees are authorized to apply pesticides on another person’s property in exchange for compensation. The fee is $45. Commercial certification categories are:

• Agricultural Pest Control
• Forest Pest Control
• Ornamental and Turf Pest Control
• Seed Treatment Pest Control
• Aquatic Pest Control
• Right-of-Way Pest Control
• Industrial, Structural and Health-Related Pest Control
• Public Health Pest Control
• Regulatory Pest Control
• Demonstration and Research Pest Control
• Wood Preservation

Private pesticide applicator licensees are authorized to apply restricted-use and state limited-use pesticides on their own land to produce agricultural commodities. This license includes farmers and farm workers. The fee is $20.

Pesticide dealers are authorized to sell state limited-use and restricted-use pesticides to licensed Rhode Island applicators. The fee is $30.

Certifications and licenses are issued by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management.

The average yearly pay for Rhode Island pest control technicians is approximately $35,000.

How do I become licensed for pest control in Rhode Island?

Determine the type of license you want to get before you apply for a Rhode Island pest control license. Submit an application and take an exam (if required).

Approved online training courses for Rhode Island applicants:

• Pested
• PestWeb
• The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors
• Cornell University
• Continuing Education University
• Purdue University IPM
• National Pest Management Association

Rhode Island pesticide certification and recertification course costs:

 Expect to pay between $50 and $200 per course.

Prerequisites:

• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Be at least 18 years old
• Possess a valid Rhode Island identification card or driver’s license
• Be employed by a licensed business
• Pass an examination (Commercial applicator applicants)

On-the-Job Experience:

• Provide excellent customer service
• Mix and handle open containers of general and restricted-use pesticides
• Fumigate residential and commercial properties
• Clean and adjust pesticide equipment
• Prepare pesticide application estimates
• Set mechanical traps for rodents and other pests

Licensing board Information:

Submit your Rhode Island pest control license application to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management.

Rhode Island license examination requirements:

 Commercial applicator license and private applicator license applicants are required to take written and oral examinations. Examinations include general standards exam and at least one license category or subcategory examination. Examination fees range from $50 to $150 per test.

Rhode Island certification and recertification courses include:

• Rhode Island Pest Control Laws and Regulations
• Federal Pesticide Laws
• Pesticide Safety, Formulation, Emergency Procedures and Modes of Action
• Non-chemical Pest Control Techniques
• Fumigation Techniques

Rhode Island examination resources:

• Pest Control Training Headquarters
• University of Rhode Island – Pesticide Safety Program
• RI Pesticide Exam Prep and Worker Protection Standard

How to use your pest control license to get a job

Types of Rhode Island pest control jobs include:

• Exterminator
• Pest Control Supervisor
• Termite Treatment Specialist
• Licensed Termite Inspector
• Pest Control Technician/Specialist
• Pest Control Apprentice
• Commercial/Residential Pest Control Technician
• Lawn Care Spray Technician
• Licensed Pest Control Manager

Top websites to find a job in the pest control industry:

• ZipRecruiter
• Indeed
• CareerBuilder
• Glassdoor

The hourly pay rate for a pest control technician in Rhode Island is $17.73.

Apply these job interview tips to make a lasting impression on hiring managers:

• Ask questions
• Be respectful
• Provide honest responses to questions
• Wear professional clothing
• Send a follow-up message to hiring managers

Pest control industry trends

Pest control industry trends include:

• Research habits of local pests to determine how to control and eliminate them
• Automate scheduling and billing systems
• Provide customers with pest prevention strategies
• Attend trade shows and meetings to remain competitive

Dangers of being a pest control technician

Rhode Island pest control technicians face the following hazards:

• Aggressive pests
• Toxic chemical exposure
• On-the-job injuries (slipping and falling)
• Exposure to sun and excessive heat

Pest control safety tips:

• Store pesticides in a safe place away from open flames and flammable materials
• Apply pesticides according to the directions
• Wear protective gear.

Is my pest control license only valid in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island has a reciprocal license agreement with New York.

How often do I need to renew my pest control license in Rhode Island?

Renew your Rhode Island pest control license every year. Renewal fees range from $25 to $50. Private applicators must take 6 hours of training every five years. Commercial applicators must take 8 hours of training every five years.