Skip to content
Get a Quote
All posts

How to Obtain a Texas Pesticide Applicator License for Drone Operators

Picture of AckerSpray By  AckerSpray  ·  3 minute read

The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) regulates restricted-use pesticides across the state, ensuring compliance with licensing requirements, worker protection standards, and environmental conservation efforts. If you’re a drone operator planning to apply pesticides in Texas, here’s your step-by-step guide to obtaining a Texas Pesticide Applicator License.

texas-tda

Applicator Categories

TDA categorizes pesticide applicators into two main groups:

  1. Private Applicators: Individuals applying restricted-use pesticides on agricultural commodities for personal purposes or without monetary compensation. This includes:

  2. Commercial/Noncommercial/Noncommercial Political Subdivision (NCPS) Applicators:

    • Commercial Applicator: Applies restricted-use or state-limited-use pesticides to another’s property for compensation.
    • Noncommercial Applicator: Applies pesticides without receiving direct compensation but requires licensure.
    • NCPS Applicator: Employed by a political subdivision of Texas or a federal agency operating within the state to manage pesticide applications.
    • Jump to step-by-step section on how to obtain your commercial applicator license

Click here for licensing forms and resources.

Steps to Obtain a Private Pesticide Applicator License

Step 1: Complete Required Training

  • Attend a training session through your local Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office.
  • Alternatively, complete the online Texas Private Applicator Training Course. Learn more here.
  • Training materials are available at www-aes.tamu.edu or by calling (979) 845-3849.

Step 2: Obtain Your Training Verification Form

  • Upon completing training, receive the Verification Form (D-1411).
  • Retain the yellow copy for your records.
  • Submit the white (original) copy with your license application to TDA.

Step 3: Get the License Application Form

Step 4: Submit Your Application

  • Complete the form and include:
    • $100 license fee (payable to TDA).
    • White copy of the Verification Form.
  • Mail the completed application to TDA:
    • Texas Department of Agriculture PO Box 12076 Austin, TX 78711

Step 5: Register for the Exam

  • Once accepted, TDA will mail a letter with your Account Number.
  • Use the number to register for the Private Applicator Exam via PSI’s website or by calling 1-855-807-3998.
  • The exam fee is $64 per attempt.

Step 6: Take the Exam

  • Exam locations are available at 22 sites across Texas.
  • A passing grade is 70%. Immediate results are provided at the testing center.

Step 7: Receive Your License

  • PSI sends your exam scores to TDA daily. Upon meeting all licensing requirements, TDA will issue your license.
1200px-Department_of_Agriculture_of_the_Philippines.svg_-1024x1024

Steps to Obtain a Commercial Pesticide Applicator License

Step 1: Obtain Study Materials

  • Contact Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service for pesticide examination manuals. Visit www-aes.tamu.edu or call (979) 845-3849.

Step 2: Complete the Application

  • Fill out the appropriate form:
    • Commercial Applicator: Form PA-401
    • Noncommercial Applicator: Form PA-400N
  • Submit applications online via TDA eApply Portal or by mail.

Step 3: Pay License Fees

  • Fees vary based on license type:
    • Commercial: $200/year
    • Noncommercial: $140/year
    • NCPS: $75/year

Step 4: Register for Exams

  • Use your Account Number provided by TDA to register for exams through PSI.
    • Refer to the Pesticide Licensing Examination Candidate Information Bulletin on the PSI website for guidance on scheduling.
  • Required exams:
    • General Standards Exam
    • At least one category-specific exam.
  • Exam fee: $64 per exam.

Step 5: Complete the Exam

  • Testing centers provide immediate results. A passing grade is 70% or higher.

Step 6: Receive Your License

  • PSI sends scores to TDA daily. Upon fulfillment of requirements, TDA will issue the license.

Recertification Requirements

  • Private Applicators: Recertify every five years by earning 15 continuing education credits (CEUs), including two credits each in:

    • Laws and Regulations
    • Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

  • Commercial/Noncommercial Applicators: Recertify annually by earning five CEUs, including one credit in two of the following:

    • Laws and Regulations
    • Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
    • Drift Minimization

Alternatively, private applicators can pass the Recertification Exam administered at PSI Testing Centers ($64 per attempt).

Applicator Business Requirements

Applicator businesses must register with TDA by completing and submitting a Pesticide Applicator Business Registration form and provide liability insurance:

  • $100,000 for property damage.
  • $100,000 for bodily injury per occurrence or $200,000 aggregate.

Businesses must display TDA-issued vehicle decals for any motor vehicles used for applications under Lawn and Ornamental Pest Control: Landscape Maintenance (Category 3A). Decals are available at TDA regional offices.

Recordkeeping Requirements

Commercial, noncommercial, and NCPS applicators must maintain detailed application records for at least two years, including:

  • Date, time, and location of application.
  • Product name, EPA registration number, application rate and total volume.
  • Treated pest, site, and total area.
  • FAA "N" number for aerial equipment or ID number for other equipment
  • Weather conditions (wind direction, velocity, air temperature).
  • Applicator’s name, license number, and/or person making the application.
  • Spray permit number for regulated herbicides applied in regulated counties

Use TDA’s Pesticide Applicator Recordkeeping Form for compliance.

Change of Information

By following these steps, you can ensure compliance with state regulations and operate as a licensed pesticide applicator in Texas.

Final Thoughts

Obtaining a pesticide applicator license in Texas, especially for drone operators, is a detailed but manageable process. Whether you’re pursuing a private or commercial license, staying informed and organized is key to meeting TDA’s requirements. By following the outlined steps, you’ll ensure compliance with state regulations and gain the credentials needed to safely and effectively apply pesticides. For further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to TDA or get in touch with us and we'll help you through your regulations process.