--- title: How to Obtain a Pesticide Applicator License in Michigan for Drone Operators description: Learn how to obtain an Aerial Pesticide Applicator Certificate in the State of Michigan for Agricultural Drone Operators operating under Part 137. image: https://www.ackerspray.com/hubfs/mdard.svg --- [Skip to content](https://www.ackerspray.com/blog/how-to-obtain-a-pesticide-applicator-license-in-michigan-for-drone-operators#main-content) ![ackerspray logo](https://www.ackerspray.com/hs-fs/hubfs/2-1.png?width=250&height=63&name=2-1.png) - [Drones](https://www.ackerspray.com/drones) Show submenu for Drones - Agriculture Show submenu for Agriculture - [DJI AGRAS T100](https://www.ackerspray.com/dji-agras-t100) - [DJI AGRAS T50](https://www.ackerspray.com/dji-agras-t50) - [DJI AGRAS T40](https://www.ackerspray.com/dji-agras-t40) - [DJI AGRAS T25](https://www.ackerspray.com/dji-agras-t25) - Enterprise Show submenu for Enterprise - [DJI MAVIC 3M](https://www.ackerspray.com/dji-mavic-3m) - Delivery Show submenu for Delivery - [DJI FlyCart 30](https://www.ackerspray.com/dji-flycart-30-aerial-delivery-drone) - Drone Setup Show submenu for Drone Setup - [Drone Trailers](https://www.ackerspray.com/ag-drone-trailers) - [Drone Pick-up Skids](https://www.ackerspray.com/ag-drone-pick-up-skids) - [Services](https://www.ackerspray.com/ag-drone-services) Show submenu for Services - [Get Ackers Sprayed](https://services.ackerspray.com/) - [FAA Regulations Consulting](https://www.ackerspray.com/faa-regulations-more-than-55lbs) - [Ag Drone Training](https://www.ackerspray.com/comprehensive-ag-drone-training) - [Insurance](https://www.ackerspray.com/insurance-for-ag-drones) - [Financing](https://www.ackerspray.com/ag-drone-financing) - About Show submenu for About - [About Us](https://www.ackerspray.com/about-us) - [Contact Us](https://www.ackerspray.com/contact-us) - [FAQ](https://www.ackerspray.com/frequently-asked-questions) - [Get a Quote](https://www.ackerspray.com/get-a-quote) Open main navigation Close main navigation - [Drones](https://www.ackerspray.com/drones) Show submenu for Drones - Agriculture Show submenu for Agriculture - [DJI AGRAS T100](https://www.ackerspray.com/dji-agras-t100) - [DJI AGRAS T50](https://www.ackerspray.com/dji-agras-t50) - [DJI AGRAS T40](https://www.ackerspray.com/dji-agras-t40) - [DJI AGRAS T25](https://www.ackerspray.com/dji-agras-t25) - Enterprise Show submenu for Enterprise - [DJI MAVIC 3M](https://www.ackerspray.com/dji-mavic-3m) - Delivery Show submenu for Delivery - [DJI FlyCart 30](https://www.ackerspray.com/dji-flycart-30-aerial-delivery-drone) - Drone Setup Show submenu for Drone Setup - [Drone Trailers](https://www.ackerspray.com/ag-drone-trailers) - [Drone Pick-up Skids](https://www.ackerspray.com/ag-drone-pick-up-skids) - [Services](https://www.ackerspray.com/ag-drone-services) Show submenu for Services - [Get Ackers Sprayed](https://services.ackerspray.com/) - [FAA Regulations Consulting](https://www.ackerspray.com/faa-regulations-more-than-55lbs) - [Ag Drone Training](https://www.ackerspray.com/comprehensive-ag-drone-training) - [Insurance](https://www.ackerspray.com/insurance-for-ag-drones) - [Financing](https://www.ackerspray.com/ag-drone-financing) - About Show submenu for About - [About Us](https://www.ackerspray.com/about-us) - [Contact Us](https://www.ackerspray.com/contact-us) - [FAQ](https://www.ackerspray.com/frequently-asked-questions) - [Get a Quote](https://www.ackerspray.com/get-a-quote) - [(844) 376-6301](tel:+18443766301) [(844) 376-6301](tel:+18443766301) [All posts](https://www.ackerspray.com/blog/all) January 24, 2025 # How to Obtain a Pesticide Applicator License in Michigan for Drone Operators ![Picture of AckerSpray](https://www.ackerspray.com/hs-fs/hubfs/017306%20Logo%20Final%20File-09.png?width=50&name=017306%20Logo%20Final%20File-09.png) By  AckerSpray  ·  4 minute read In Michigan, it is against the law to sell, buy, or use restricted-use pesticides unless you have a valid pesticide applicator’s certification or are working on your own farm under the direct supervision of a certified applicator. So, what exactly is this certification, and how can you obtain one? ![mdard](https://www.ackerspray.com/hubfs/mdard.svg) ### Understanding the Applicator Credentials #### Private Certification Private certification is required for anyone applying restricted-use pesticides (RUPs) to agricultural commodities on their own or their employer’s property. To obtain this certification, applicators must pass the private core exam. #### Commercial Certification Commercial certification is necessary for those applying pesticides for commercial purposes—whether for hire or for anyone using non-ready-to-use pesticides during their employment. Commercial applicators must pass the commercial core exam and at least one category exam, based on the types of applications they perform. To determine which categories you need, refer to the [Commercial Pesticide Application Certification Categories List](https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/-/media/Project/Websites/mdard/documents/pesticide-plant-pest/pesticide/commercial_pesticide_application_certification_categories.pdf?rev=9373b246cfc54097b5683303e8955dc7&hash=D02403FC790815F97635BDE56DF23DE4). #### Registered Applicators Registered applicators typically apply general-use pesticides for commercial purposes under the supervision of a certified applicator. However, they are not permitted to apply restricted-use pesticides. Registered applicators must be trained by an MDARD-approved trainer using an MDARD-approved program that complies with Regulation 636, Rule 8, Subrule 9. Trainers must first pass the Registered Applicator Trainer Exam and be a commercially certified applicator with at least two years of experience applying pesticides in the categories they will be training for. A [Registered Applicator Trainer Manual](https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/-/media/Project/Websites/mdard/documents/pesticide-plant-pest/pesticide/registered_applicator_trainer_manual.pdf?rev=964e6d1c68644a61a4b141e67e941355&hash=B9E15289D1298619A91947D50C4D069F) is available to help trainers prepare for the exam. For assistance with developing a training program or to take the Registered Applicator Trainer Exam, contact Dr. Safa Alzohairy, Michigan State University’s Pesticide Safety Education Coordinator. ![1200px-Department_of_Agriculture_of_the_Philippines.svg_-1024x1024](https://www.ackerspray.com/hs-fs/hubfs/1200px-Department_of_Agriculture_of_the_Philippines.svg_-1024x1024.png?width=665&height=665&name=1200px-Department_of_Agriculture_of_the_Philippines.svg_-1024x1024.png) ### Qualifications for a Certification Credential - Applicants must be 18 years of age or older. - Submit the required fee along with a completed application. - Commercial applicators are required to pass the commercial core exam and at least one category exam relevant to their pesticide application area. If applying for multiple categories, all exams must be passed before a credential is issued. An additional requirement applies for those intending to use fumigant pesticides or apply pesticides by aircraft. - Private applicators must pass the private core exam, with an additional exam required for those intending to use fumigant pesticides or apply pesticides by aircraft. - All exams must be passed with a score of 70% or higher for a credential to be issued. - Applicants who do not pass their exam(s) may retake them within six months of the original application date at no extra application fee. (Note: Computer-based exams incur an additional fee per test). ### Aerial Pesticide Applicators #### MDARD Flight Experience Requirements An aerial applicator must meet at least one of the following requirements before applying pesticides from the air: 1. Gain a minimum of three years of experience and at least 200 hours of agricultural aerial application under the supervision of a commercial aerial applicator. 2. Be licensed as a commercial aerial applicator prior to December 27, 1988. 3. Successfully complete an aerial applicator training program approved by the director, ensuring the protection of public health, safety, welfare, and the environment. [MDARD’s Aerial Applicator Program Guidelines for UAVs](https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/-/media/Project/Websites/mdard/documents/pesticide-plant-pest/pesticide/UAV-Aerial-applicator-Training-Program-Outline.pdf?rev=76563c9ab13f4a28af6a24cc1e5b2fc7&hash=DAEDBD73CDB33C6F07876752112C6385) provide additional details on compliance pathways for drone operators. #### Certification All aerial applicators who plan to commercially apply pesticides in Michigan must be certified in the commercial core, the Aerial Standard (AE), and the relevant categories. These categories may include, but are not limited to: - 1A - Field Crops - 1B - Vegetables - 1C - Fruit Crops - 2 - Forest - 3B - Ornamental - 5 - Aquatic Pests - 7F - Mosquito #### Business Licensing Businesses must adhere to all FAA regulations for pilots and agricultural aircraft. In Michigan, commercial applicators who apply pesticides from an aircraft for compensation must be employed by a company that holds a pesticide application business license. To obtain this license: 1. Apply to the [Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Corporations, Securities, and Commercial Licensing Bureau](https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/cscl). 2. Once the business is authorized to operate in Michigan, it will be assigned a Michigan Corporation identification number. 3. The business must then apply to MDARD for a [Pesticide Application Business License (PABL)](https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/-/media/Project/Websites/mdard/documents/pesticide-plant-pest/pesticide/pabl_application.pdf?rev=1eeb082486854301b12083b41496458b&hash=31567F32AFE84F243CE276F59C67AD99). Aerial application companies hiring pilots to perform applications must list the pilot on the firm’s agricultural aircraft operator certificate (FAA Part 137). Independent pilots who contract directly in Michigan must obtain their own PABL and meet the requirements for Michigan-certified applicators. **Mix/Load Pads** Aerial applicators must have a designated location in Michigan for mixing or transferring pesticides. [Annual reports](https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/-/media/Project/Websites/mdard/documents/pesticide-plant-pest/pesticide/AERIAL-MIX--LOAD-FORM.pdf?rev=dfff29501461457e8a734b9a0ddebe62&hash=35469EB3629260C4416F3CBC73EC0EB5) of these locations must be submitted to MDARD. ### Study Materials and Exam Study manuals and other training resources are available through the [Michigan State University Pesticide Safety Education Program](https://www.canr.msu.edu/psep/index). All manuals can be ordered through the [National Pesticide Safety Education Center](https://npsecstore.com/collections/msu-additions). For guidance on which manual to order, refer to [MDARD's List of Study Manuals by Applicator Type](https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/-/media/Project/Websites/mdard/documents/pesticide-plant-pest/pesticide/mdard_pesticide_exam_study_manual_chart.pdf?rev=7d7c2ce1e1664b74b584ad971cc57378&hash=02AE7B57AD6473D0B394F3DD7E892618). Certification exams are administered by [Metro Institute](https://www.metroinstitute.com/) on behalf of MDARD. Applicators must schedule their own exams and have two options for taking them: 1. **At an established testing center**: [Locate a nearby testing center](https://metroinstitute.com/index.php?option=com_hotspots&view=hotspots&Itemid=1344). 2. **Online and remotely proctored from home or office**: [Watch the Applicator Exam Video Training](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iFRNkz4ovIE) for instructions on taking a remote proctored exam. Exams can be scheduled online through Metro Institute or by calling 877-533-2900. Please note, Metro Institute's main office is in Arizona. If you require reasonable accommodation for an exam, visit MDARD’s[Reasonable Accommodation Requests](https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/licensing/pesticide/pesticide-applicator-certification/miscellaneous/reasonable-accommodation-requests-for-pesticide-certification-exams) webpage for further information. ### Reciprocity MDARD has reciprocal certification agreements with Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. To obtain reciprocity in Michigan, an applicator must be a resident of the state where the original credential was issued. To apply, submit a copy of the original credential along with the [Private and Commercial Applicator Certification Application](https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/-/media/Project/Websites/mdard/documents/pesticide-plant-pest/pesticide/pesticide_applicator_cert_reg_app.pdf?rev=0850abdc811f4969aba6526932e654e5&hash=5013E347B4D1D6FA4C9AC4B84D803677). ### Apply for a Credential Applications and fees (check or money order payable to the “State of Michigan”) should be mailed to: **The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development** P.O. Box 30776 Lansing, Michigan 48909 After passing all certification exams and submitting the required application and fee to MDARD, a certification or registration credential will be issued. #### Application Fees: - Private Applicators: $50 (Fee waived for honorably discharged veterans) - Commercial Applicators: $75 - Registered Applicators: $45 #### New Applicants: - **Private Applicators**: Submit the[Private and Commercial Applicator Certification](https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/-/media/Project/Websites/mdard/documents/pesticide-plant-pest/pesticide/pesticide_applicator_cert_reg_app.pdf?rev=0850abdc811f4969aba6526932e654e5&hash=5013E347B4D1D6FA4C9AC4B84D803677) **Application** with a $50 fee. (Honorably discharged veterans are fee exempt.) - **Commercial Applicators**: Submit the[**Private and Commercial Applicator Certification Application**](https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/-/media/Project/Websites/mdard/documents/pesticide-plant-pest/pesticide/pesticide_applicator_cert_reg_app.pdf?rev=0850abdc811f4969aba6526932e654e5&hash=5013E347B4D1D6FA4C9AC4B84D803677) with a $75 fee. - **Registered Applicators**: Submit the[**Commercial Applicator Registration Application**](https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/-/media/Project/Websites/mdard/documents/pesticide-plant-pest/pesticide/Private--Commercial-Applicator-Registration-Application--Registered-Applicators-Only.pdf?rev=4ac15c5bfe4d49939d323afa50b797c7&hash=16DBEED4070709D319820619E4C41F37) with a $45 fee. Registered applicators must also: 1. Pass the commercial core exam. 2. Complete applicable category training through an approved trainer using an approved training program. ### Step-by-Step Process 1. **Determine your applicator type** 2. **Send in your application and fee to MDARD** 3. **Obtain study materials** 4. **Study for your exams** 5. **Pass the exam(s)**: Once you pass your exam(s), your credential will be issued. ### MDARD Contact Information - Lauren Gott, Pesticide Certification Specialist - General certification questions? Email the Pesticide Section at MDARD-Pesticide@michigan.gov - Questions about certification or registration status? Email the Central Licensing & Operational Services Unit at MDARD-PestCert@michigan.gov --- ### Final Thoughts Obtaining a pesticide applicator license in Michigan is an essential step for anyone working with restricted-use pesticides, whether on a personal farm or in a commercial setting. While the process may seem detailed, following the outlined steps ensures compliance with Michigan’s laws and protects both public health and the environment. From choosing the right applicator type to studying and passing the required exams, each step is vital for success. If you’re planning to engage in aerial pesticide application with drones, make sure to stay updated on both FAA and MDARD regulations as this emerging field evolves. With proper certification, you’ll be equipped to operate safely and effectively in Michigan’s agricultural landscape. For more information, don’t hesitate to contact MDARD or [reach out](https://www.ackerspray.com/contact-us) to AckerSpray's compliance team. 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