What You Need to Know About the Initial Pesticide Applicator Certification.

The University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension’s Pesticide Safety Education Program provides annual training to help prepare individuals for the Private and Commercial Applicator Certification Exams. These trainings are held in late winter or early spring, with the next session scheduled for March 2026.

To become certified as a pesticide applicator in New Hampshire, individuals must pass the appropriate exam(s). These exams are developed, administered, and graded by the New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food, Division of Pesticide Control, in collaboration with UNH Cooperative Extension.

Study materials are essential for exam preparation and should be ordered at least three weeks in advance of the training and/or exam date to ensure adequate time for review. Exam questions are drawn directly from these materials.

While attendance at the Initial Certification Training is not required for certification at the operational level, it is strongly recommended, as the training provides structured guidance and targeted instruction. The program includes a comprehensive review of:

•    The National Pesticide Applicator Certification Core Manual
•     The NH Code of Administrative Rules
•     The Worker Protection Standard for Agricultural Pesticides

Please note: This training does not meet the certification requirements for individuals seeking the Supervisory Registration Certification – General Use Applicator license.

Private applicator testing is offered on the final day of training at each location.

Initial Certification Training: March 2026

Coming Soon

Click here to register