Commercial vs. private applicator in Texas
The license you need depends on what you apply, where, and for whom. Here's how the main Texas tracks differ.
Last updated 2026-06-15.
Private applicator
For people who produce an agricultural commodity and apply restricted-use pesticides to their own or rented land. It's a five-year license ($100) and requires completing the AgriLife Private Applicator Training course before testing.
Commercial applicator
For people who apply pesticides for hire or compensation. It's an annual license ($200/year) and requires passing the General Standards (CORE) exam plus at least one category exam.
Noncommercial applicator
For people who apply pesticides as a job duty for an employer (not for hire to the public) — for example a grounds crew or a government employee. Annual license; also requires CORE plus a category.
Which exam path?
Commercial, noncommercial, and noncommercial-political-subdivision applicants must pass the General Standards (core) exam AND at least one category exam. The Aerial category cannot stand alone. Private applicators take a single Private Applicator exam after completing the required training course.
Whichever track you're on, the General Standards material — labels, laws, safety, IPM, calibration, and environmental protection — is the shared foundation, which is exactly what our free practice test covers.
Verified 2026-06-15. Confirm details with the Texas Department of Agriculture.