Georgia Pest Control License Requirements

Georgia regulates structural pest control through the Georgia Department of Agriculture's Structural Pest Control Commission. This commission oversees the licensing of pest control companies, certified operators, and technicians throughout the state. Georgia's warm, humid climate and extensive wooded areas create significant pest challenges.

The state requires three tiers of licensing, from entry-level technicians to certified pest control operators who can run their own businesses. Georgia places particular emphasis on termite and wood-destroying organism control due to the high prevalence of subterranean termites in the region.

Georgia pest control exams are administered by the Structural Pest Control Commission at testing locations throughout the state. The CPO exam is comprehensive, covering pest identification, treatment methods, safety procedures, Georgia laws, and business management. The technician exam covers basic pest control knowledge and safety.

A minimum score of 70% is required for both exams. Exams are offered monthly at the Georgia Department of Agriculture offices. Study materials are available through the University of Georgia Extension. A 30-day waiting period applies before retaking a failed exam.

Registered Technicians can begin work after passing their examination. Certified Pest Control Operators must have at least 2 years of verifiable experience as a registered technician before applying for the CPO exam. Experience must be documented by a currently licensed CPO.

A high school diploma or GED is required. The University of Georgia Extension offers pest control training programs that are recommended for exam preparation. College coursework in entomology, biology, or pest management may count toward experience requirements at the discretion of the Commission.

Georgia pest control licensing fees include: CPO examination: $100. Registered Technician exam: $50. Business license: $200 annually. Branch office registration: $100 per location. Annual renewal: $150. Late renewal fee: $50. Background check: $30.

Georgia pest control licenses must be renewed annually by December 31. Certified Pest Control Operators must complete 6 continuing education units (CEUs) per year. Registered Technicians must complete 3 CEUs annually. Failure to renew results in license suspension, and reinstatement requires additional fees and may require re-examination.

Georgia requires pest control businesses to maintain general liability insurance of at least $300,000 per occurrence and $500,000 aggregate. Companies performing termite treatment must carry termite damage repair insurance or a surety bond. Workers' compensation insurance is required for all employers with three or more employees.

Georgia considers reciprocity requests from applicants holding valid certifications in other southeastern states with comparable programs. Applicants must submit documentation of their current certification and may be required to pass Georgia's laws and regulations exam. The Structural Pest Control Commission reviews each request individually.