Top 11 Exterminator Certifications

Certifications are important for an exterminator in the job market because they demonstrate a level of competence and skill. Certified exterminators have received specialized training and knowledge in the field of pest control, which employers value highly. Certifications also provide assurance to clients that the exterminator is knowledgeable and experienced in dealing with pests, thereby increasing their trust in the services provided. Finally, certifications often come with additional benefits such as discounts on products or access to specific resources, which can be valuable when competing for jobs.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Exterminators and explains how they can help to enhance an exterminator's career.

What are Exterminator Certifications?

Exterminator certification is a type of professional qualification that individuals must obtain in order to work as a licensed pest control technician or exterminator. The certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the laws, regulations, and best practices related to pest control. This includes topics such as safety protocols, proper use of pesticides, identifying pests, and performing inspections. By obtaining exterminator certification, individuals can prove their competency in the field and show potential employers that they have the necessary skills to properly handle any pest-related issues. In addition to providing proof of proficiency in the field, certified exterminators can also benefit from increased job security and higher wages due to their specialized knowledge.

Pro Tip: Exterminator certification is not only important for ensuring that you are providing quality service and meeting safety standards, but it also allows you to access more competitive pricing on the products and services you use. Make sure to research the requirements in your area and take the necessary steps to get certified.

Related: What does an Exterminator do?

Top 11 Exterminator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Exterminators today.

1. National Pest Management Association Certification

The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) Certification is a program that recognizes pest management professionals who have achieved a certain level of knowledge and expertise in the field. It is designed to ensure that pest management professionals are up-to-date on the latest techniques and technologies, as well as safety protocols for controlling pests.

In order to obtain NPMA Certification, individuals must complete an approved training program and pass a comprehensive exam. The training program typically takes between six and twelve months to complete, depending on the individual’s experience level. To get started, individuals must first register with the NPMA and then select an approved training provider. Once registered, individuals will receive study materials and access to online courses.

Upon completion of the training program, individuals can then take the certification exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as pest identification, control methods, safety protocols, laws and regulations, customer service, and more. The exam fee is $150 USD per attempt.

Once an individual passes the certification exam they will be awarded their certificate from the NPMA. This certificate is valid for three years before it needs to be renewed by taking continuing education courses or retaking the certification exam.

2. QualityPro Certification

QualityPro is a certification program designed to recognize and promote excellence in the professional pest management industry. It is administered by the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). QualityPro is the only nationally recognized certification program for pest management professionals.

To become QualityPro certified, a company must meet certain criteria related to their business operations, customer service, safety practices, employee training, and environmental stewardship. The process typically takes between three and six months to complete.

To get started with the QualityPro certification process, a company must first submit an application to NPMA. The application includes information about the company’s business operations and customer service policies. Once the application is approved, the company will be required to complete a series of online courses related to pest management topics such as safety protocols and regulations. The courses are offered through NPMA’s online learning platform.

Once all of the courses have been completed, companies must submit proof that they meet all of the requirements for QualityPro certification. This includes submitting documentation such as insurance certificates, employee training records, and customer service policies. After this step has been completed successfully, companies will receive their QualityPro certification from NPMA.

The cost of becoming QualityPro certified varies depending on the size of the company and other factors. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$2000 per year for small businesses up to $5000-$10,000 per year for larger companies with multiple locations or services offered.

3. GreenPro Certification

GreenPro Certification is a certification program that recognizes businesses that employ best practices in green cleaning. GreenPro Certification is designed to help businesses reduce their environmental impact, save money, and improve the health of their customers and employees.

To become GreenPro Certified, businesses must complete an online application and submit a detailed report outlining their green cleaning policies and procedures. The report must include information about the products and equipment used for green cleaning, as well as any training programs or other initiatives taken to improve sustainability. Once submitted, the report is reviewed by a panel of experts who will determine if the business meets the criteria for certification.

The process typically takes between 2-4 weeks to complete. The cost of certification depends on the size of the business, but can range from $500 - $2,000 USD.

4. Certified Pest Control Operator (CPCO)

A Certified Pest Control Operator (CPCO) is a professional who has been certified by the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) to provide pest control services. The certification requires that the individual pass an exam administered by the NPMA and demonstrate knowledge of pest control principles, practices, and techniques. The CPCO must also adhere to a code of ethics and professional conduct.

To become a CPCO, individuals must have at least two years of experience in the pest control industry. This experience can include work as an employee or contractor for a pest control company or as an independent operator. It can also include military service in a related field.

The CPCO exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as entomology, biology, pesticide safety and application methods, integrated pest management strategies, regulations, record keeping and business practices. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and must be taken at an approved testing center.

The cost to take the CPCO exam is $125 for NPMA members and $175 for non-members. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official CPCO certificate from the NPMA.

5. National Wildlife Control Operators Association (NWCOA) Certification

The National Wildlife Control Operators Association (NWCOA) Certification is a professional certification program that provides recognition to wildlife control operators who have met the highest standards of training and experience in the industry. This certification is voluntary and is not required by law, but it does provide assurance to customers that the operator has met specific criteria for training and experience in wildlife control operations.

To become certified, an individual must complete a minimum of 40 hours of training in wildlife control operations, including topics such as animal biology, trapping techniques, safety protocols, and customer service. The program also requires applicants to have at least two years of full-time experience in the field. After completing all requirements, applicants must pass a written exam to earn their certification.

It typically takes one to two years to complete all the necessary requirements for NWCOA Certification. The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the type of coursework taken and other related expenses such as books and materials. However, most courses range from $200-$500 USD per course.

6. Structural Pest Control Training and Certification Program

Structural Pest Control Training and Certification Program is a program designed to provide pest management professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively manage pests in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. The program consists of two parts: a classroom-based training course and an exam.

The classroom-based course typically takes about 40 hours to complete, depending on the state or region you live in. During this course, students will learn about pest identification, biology and behavior, control methods, safety protocols, regulations and laws, customer service practices, record keeping requirements, and more.

To get certified as a Structural Pest Control Professional (SPCP), you must pass the exam administered by your state’s Department of Agriculture or other regulatory agency. The exam is usually offered twice a year at various locations around the state or region. You can find out when and where the exams are being held by contacting your local Department of Agriculture office or checking their website.

The cost for taking the exam varies from state to state but typically ranges from $50-$100. In addition to the cost of taking the exam itself, there may be additional fees associated with registering for it or obtaining study materials such as textbooks or online courses.

Once you have passed the exam and become an SPCP certified professional, you will need to renew your certification every three years by completing continuing education courses approved by your state’s Department of Agriculture. These courses typically range from 8-16 hours in length depending on your state’s requirements.

7. Certified Crop Adviser (CCA)

Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) is a professional certification program for individuals who provide advice and guidance to farmers and other agricultural professionals. The certification is offered by the American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, and Soil Science Society of America.

It takes approximately one year to complete the requirements for the CCA certification. To become certified, applicants must pass two exams: a core exam and a specialty exam. The core exam covers topics such as soil fertility, crop production, pest management, nutrient management, crop marketing, and environmental stewardship. The specialty exam focuses on a specific area of expertise such as agronomic crops or horticultural crops.

In order to take the exams, applicants must first complete an approved training program in their chosen field of specialization. Training programs are available through universities, colleges, and private companies. Once an applicant has completed the training program they can register for the exams with the American Society of Agronomy.

The cost to become certified varies depending on the type of training program chosen and whether or not an applicant needs to purchase additional study materials or take practice tests before taking the actual exams. Generally speaking, it will cost between $500 - $1,000 USD to become certified as a CCA.

8. Professional Applicator License

A Professional Applicator License is a certification issued by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that allows an individual to legally apply certain pesticides and other regulated chemicals. This license is required for anyone who applies such products in commercial, industrial, or agricultural settings.

The process of obtaining a Professional Applicator License varies from state to state, but typically involves completing an approved training program and passing a written exam. In some states, additional requirements may include background checks and fingerprinting. The length of time it takes to obtain a license can range from several weeks to several months depending on the state.

To get started, applicants should contact their local cooperative extension office or state department of agriculture for more information about licensing requirements in their area. Applicants will need to complete all necessary paperwork and provide proof of completion of the required training program before they can take the exam.

The cost of obtaining a Professional Applicator License varies from state to state but typically ranges from $50-$200 depending on the type of license being sought. Some states also require applicants to pay additional fees for fingerprinting services or background checks if applicable.

9. Certified Termite Technician (CTT)

A Certified Termite Technician (CTT) is a professional who has been trained and certified to identify, treat, and prevent termite infestations. The CTT certification is administered by the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) and requires that the technician pass an exam covering topics such as termite biology, inspection techniques, treatment methods, safety protocols, and more.

To become a CTT, you must first complete an approved training program. These programs vary in length depending on the provider but typically take between one and two weeks to complete. Upon successful completion of the training program, you will be eligible to take the CTT exam. The exam consists of both written and practical components and takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost for becoming a CTT varies depending on which training program you choose. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500 - $1,500 for the entire process including the exam fee.

Once you have passed the exam and received your certification, it is valid for three years after which time you will need to retake the exam in order to maintain your status as a Certified Termite Technician.

10. National Pesticide Applicator Certification Core Manual

The National Pesticide Applicator Certification Core Manual is a comprehensive guide for anyone who applies pesticides in the United States. It provides information on the laws, regulations, and best practices for pesticide application. It also outlines the requirements for certification and recertification of pesticide applicators. The manual covers topics such as safety, health, environmental protection, and legal requirements.

To get certified as a pesticide applicator, you must pass an exam administered by your state’s department of agriculture or other appropriate agency. The exam typically takes two to three hours to complete and covers topics such as safety procedures, proper use of protective equipment, and pest identification. After passing the exam, you will receive a certificate that is valid for five years before needing to be renewed.

The cost of getting certified varies by state but generally ranges from $50-$100 depending on the type of certification you are seeking (e.g., commercial or private). In some states there may also be additional fees associated with taking the exam or renewing your certification after five years.

Overall, obtaining National Pesticide Applicator Certification requires dedication and commitment to learning about pesticide safety and application techniques but can provide valuable knowledge that can help protect people’s health and the environment.

11. Bed Bug Control Specialist (BBCS)

A Bed Bug Control Specialist (BBCS) is a professional who specializes in the removal of bed bugs from homes and businesses. BBCSs are highly trained, certified professionals with expertise in dealing with all aspects of bed bug infestations. They use specialized equipment and techniques to identify, treat, and prevent bed bug infestations.

The length of time it takes to get a BBCS depends on the severity of the infestation and the availability of a qualified specialist. In most cases, it can take anywhere from one to three weeks for a BBCS to be available for an appointment.

To get a BBCS, you will need to contact your local pest control company or search online for a qualified specialist in your area. You can also find information about BBCSs through your state’s department of health or agriculture.

The cost of hiring a BBCS varies depending on the size and complexity of the infestation. Generally speaking, you should expect to pay anywhere from $200-$600 for an initial inspection and treatment plan. Additional treatments may be necessary depending on the severity of the infestation, which could increase the total cost significantly.

Do You Really Need a Exterminator Certificate?

Exterminator certificates are not always necessary, depending on the type of pest control that you need. However, some states and municipalities require exterminators to be certified in order to legally operate within their jurisdiction. In these cases, an exterminator certificate is essential for any professional pest control service.

In addition to state or local requirements, many property owners or tenants may also require exterminators to have a valid certificate before they begin work on their property. This is especially true for commercial buildings where the presence of pests can be potentially damaging to the business’s reputation and bottom line.

Even if you don’t live in an area with strict regulations regarding pest control services, it’s still a good idea to make sure that your exterminator has the proper credentials before hiring them. A valid certificate demonstrates that the exterminator has been properly trained and understands how to safely and effectively eliminate pests from your home or business.

Certified exterminators may also be able to provide additional services such as termite inspections or treatments, which could be beneficial in helping protect your property from costly damage caused by these destructive pests. An experienced exterminator will also know which products are most effective against different types of pests and how to use them safely without risking harm to people or pets living in the affected area.

Overall, an exterminator certificate is not always required but it can be useful in ensuring that you hire a qualified professional who knows what they are doing and can help keep your home or business safe from unwanted pests.

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FAQs About Exterminator Certifications

1. How do I become certified as an exterminator?

Answer: To become certified as an exterminator, you must complete a state-approved training program and pass a certification exam. Additionally, you may need to obtain a license from your local government or regulatory body.

2. What type of training is required to become an exterminator?

Answer: The specific requirements may vary depending on the state or locality, but typically they include classroom instruction in entomology (the study of insects), pest biology and control methods, and safety protocols. In addition, some states require hands-on field experience and/or the completion of apprenticeship programs.

3. Are there any continuing education requirements for exterminators?

Answer: Yes, many states require continuing education for licensed exterminators in order to maintain their certification. This usually entails taking courses related to new techniques and technologies in pest control as well as safety regulations and best practices.

4. Is there a national certification for exterminators?

Answer: No, there is no single nationwide certification for exterminators; however, some organizations such as the National Pest Management Association offer certifications that are recognized by many states.

5. What is the average salary for an exterminator?

Answer: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for pest control workers (including exterminators) was $33,660 in May 2018 with the top 10 percent earning more than $58,650 per year.