How Do I Get A Pesticide Applicator License in New Jersey?

Here at Rutgers University, we get a lot of questions regarding the New Jersey pesticide applicator licensing program. Below are some quick answers to the most common questions.

1. How do I get my pesticide applicator license in New Jersey?
You must first complete a CORE training class and then pass the CORE exam. You can take the CORE class here at Rutgers, but you’ll need to go to the NJ Department of Environmental Protection for the exam.

Here is a link to the dates and locations for the CORE class at Rutgers. Bilingual classes (English and Spanish) are available.

Here is a link to other dates and locations for the NJ CORE class. Please verify the dates, locations and topics with the NJDEP before attending.

Here is a link to the Rutgers PACER website where you can sign up for exams.

2. What is the CORE class about?
The CORE class is mainly about safety.

3. What do I do after I complete the CORE class and pass the exam?
After fulfilling the CORE requirement, an applicator can obtain category licenses. Everything that gets sprayed falls into a category, and you need to get a license for each category. For example, if you want to spray ornamental plants, you need a category 3A license. If you want to spray turf, you need a category 3B license.

4. How do I get a category license?
You must have 40 hours of  On the Job Training (OTJ)  under someone who has the required category license. Once you have the 40 hours you can apply for the category exam. If you pass the exam, you have your license.

NOTE: For certain categories (3A, 3B, 7A and 7B), it is currently possible to substitute additional class time for the 40 hours, provided the 40 hours is not available to you.

For more complete information about categories, including a list of all available categories, visit this page at the NJDEP.

5. Who do I contact if I have additional questions?
For questions regarding the CORE class, you can contact Rutgers University at (848) 932-7317.

For all other questions, you need to contact the NJDEP at this link.

6. After I have my license, how do I keep it?
You will need to take classes that award continuing education credits. If you don’t obtain the credits, you will need to retake the exam. Different categories have different requirements. For example, you need 8 continuing education credits for CORE every 5 years. You need 16 3A credits every five years, etc.

4. Where do I find these classes?
You can find them at various places throughout the states. Many landscaping shows include classes that award these credits.

We also have them here at Rutgers. This link will show you a list of categories. Click on a category to see a list of classes at Rutgers that supplies those particular credits.