California Pesticide Applicator License Exam Requirements
What California's Laws, Regulations, and Basic Principles exam is, who takes it, and what passes.
| Exam | Who takes it | Given by | Questions | Time | Pass | Fee | Sources checked |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Laws, Regulations, and Basic Principles | California Qualified Applicator Certificate and License (QAC and QAL) candidates | DPR, by computer at testing centers | Not published | Not published | 70% | $115 |
Which exams does a California qualified applicator take?
The Laws, Regulations, and Basic Principles exam plus at least one pest control category exam, for either the Qualified Applicator Certificate (QAC) or the Qualified Applicator License (QAL). QAC candidates for subcategory Q (maintenance gardener) take only the Q exam, which includes the laws and basic principles (DPR, Qualified Applicator Certificate packet, Rev. 7/24).
What score passes?
70% (3 CCR § 6504).
Who gives the exams?
The Department of Pesticide Regulation, by computer at testing centers across the state. Each exam costs $115 (DPR, Qualified Applicator Certificate packet, Rev. 7/24).
How many questions are on the exam?
DPR doesn't publish the number of questions or the time limit.
Does this cover structural pest control licenses?
No. Structural pest control licenses (Branch 2 and 3 applicators, field representatives and operators) come from the Structural Pest Control Board, under the Business and Professions Code, with their own exams.