Tennessee Pest Control License Requirements

Tennessee regulates pest control through the Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA), Regulatory Services Division. The state requires all pest control businesses to be licensed and individuals performing pest control to be certified. Tennessee's warm, humid climate, particularly in the western and central regions, creates significant pest pressure.

The TDA administers the Tennessee Pesticide Act and the Structural Pest Control Act, which together establish the licensing framework for pest control professionals. Tennessee requires a charter holder for each pest control business who is responsible for overseeing operations.

Tennessee certification exams are administered by the TDA at testing locations in Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. The charter holder exam is comprehensive, covering pest management, business practices, Tennessee laws, and supervisory responsibilities. Operator and technician exams cover pest identification, treatment methods, and safety.

A minimum score of 70% is required. Exams are offered on scheduled dates. Study materials are available through the University of Tennessee Extension. A 30-day waiting period applies for retaking the charter holder exam.

Registered Technicians may begin work under supervision immediately. Certified Operator status requires passing exams. Charter Holders must have at least 2 years of documented experience in pest control and be at least 21 years old.

A high school diploma or GED is required. The University of Tennessee Extension offers training programs and study materials for all certification levels. UT's Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology provides research-based pest management resources.

Tennessee pest control licensing fees include: Charter Holder exam: $150. Certified Operator exam: $75. Business license (charter): $200 annually. Registered Technician: $30. Category exam fee: $25 each. Annual renewal: $100.

Tennessee pest control licenses must be renewed annually. Charter Holders and Certified Operators must complete 8 continuing education credits per year, including core safety and category-specific topics. Business licenses require maintaining current insurance and a qualified charter holder.

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

Tennessee considers reciprocity with neighboring states on a case-by-case basis. Applicants must provide proof of current licensure and typically must pass Tennessee's laws and regulations exam. Documented experience from other states is accepted toward the charter holder experience requirement.