Skip to Main Content

Private Applicators: Pesticides, Fertilizers

ApplicatorPrivate applicators are individuals who spray restricted use pesticides or apply manure from a confined feeding operation (CFO) to their own land. Individuals in related capacities may also need a private applicator license (see websites below for details). Individuals may possess a private pesticide applicator license, a private Category 14 (fertilizer applicator) license, or a license with both endorsements.

Commercial applicators spray pesticides for hire (as a business). Registered technicians spray pesticides under the direct supervision of a commercial applicator at a business.

The license is active for a period of five years. Private applicators must attend three private applicator recertification programs (PARPs) within that five year period to keep their license active and avoid the need to re-test. No more than two programs may be attended for credit in any one calendar year. One program may be taken online.

I want to: 

  • Get a new private applicator license (Apply only to my own crops)
  • >Get a new commercial applicator license (Apply for hire)
    • Core and Category Training @ Purdue - 2021 Purdue Pesticide Programs pdf brochure
      • Private pesticide applicators pass "Core" exam for licensing
      • Commercial registered technicians pass "Core" exam for licensing
      • Commercial applicators pass Core exam plus the category exam in which their business will be operating

Check out links below for further information.

Featured Stories

plate of food
Agriculture Affects Everyone, Every Day

National Ag Day is March 18, with the theme, “Together We Grow.” As the world...

Read More
 An elm-lined street in St. Paul, MN, before most of the trees were killed by Dutch elm disease.
Famous Historical Elms and Protecting Elms Today

A look at some “famous” elms in history, and what you can do to monitor and protect...

Read More
pawpaw fruit
Pawpaw – the Indiana Banana

Have you heard of the pawpaw tree? It’s affectionately called the Indiana Banana.

Read More
Whitley County 4-H Fair
2025 WHITLEY COUNTY 4-H FAIR

Whitley County 4-H Fair

Read More
Purdue Extension.
Whitley County Newsletters

The most recent issue of the Extension Connection is hot off the press!

Read More
mouse and rat
Dealing With Rodents Around Homes and Farms

You have probably seen a cartoon or stereotypical TV show where someone sees a mouse and says,...

Read More
To Top