Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Trades
Pest Control Worker Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for pest control worker in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Pest Control Worker in California
Estimated timeline: 1-18 yearsCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
- 3
The Applicator license is the Board's entry level license.
- 4
Many will begin working in the industry as an Applicator, although it is not required to hold an Applicator license before becoming licensed as a Field Representative.
- 5
Examination: $55.
- 6
License: $10.
- 7
Renewal: $10.
- 8
Live Scan: $49 plus fingerprint-rolling fee established by each individual location.
Exam and processing details
- $55 License: $10 Frequency: Examinations given on a daily basis, an applicant can re-take the examination every 15 days.
- Locations: There are over 17 locations throughout California, and additional locations in other states and countries.
- Experience
Continuing education and program notes
- continuing education required to renew license
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Examination | $55 |
| License | $10 |
| Renewal | $10 |
| Live Scan | $49 |
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Structural Pest Control Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$45,370 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#19 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet California eligibility requirements for Pest Control Worker licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: $55 License: $10 Frequency: Examinations given on a daily basis, an applicant can re-take the examination every 15 days. Locations: There are over 17 locations throughout Califo....
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (Live Scan: $49 plus fingerprint-rolling fee established by each individual location.).
- 5. Budget filing costs (Examination: $55; License: $10).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Consumer Affairs~Structural Pest Control Board and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of $45,370, Pest Control Workers in California earn 1% above the national median of $44,730. California ranks #19 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 1-18 years.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$45,370Hourly estimate
$21.811% above national median
Difference: +$640
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPest Control Worker Salary Ranking
#19 of 50 statesfor Pest Control Worker median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Colorado | $50,450 |
| #2 | Washington | $50,190 |
| #3 | Maine | $49,940 |
| #4 | North Dakota | $48,840 |
| #5 | New Hampshire | $48,750 |
Nearby States Comparison
Pest Control Worker licensing across the regionLicense by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Consumer Affairs • Structural Pest Control Board
2005 Evergreen Street, Ste 1500, Sacramento, CA, 95815-3831
Phone: 9165618700
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $84,910 | Varies by state board | 1-17 years |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $63,370 | Varies by state board | 1-17 years |
| Carpenter | $74,820 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $101,160 | Varies by state board | 1-6 years |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Pest Control Worker in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 1-18 years, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Pest Control Worker salary in California?
The median annual salary for Pest Control Workers in California is $45,370. Salaries range from $35,780 (10th percentile) to $59,180 (90th percentile).
How does the Pest Control Worker salary in California compare to the national average?
Pest Control Workers in California earn 1% above the national median of $44,730, with a state median of $45,370.
How many Pest Control Workers work in California?
California employs approximately 12,290 Pest Control Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Pest Control Worker license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Pest Control Workers in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Structural Pest Control Board. Review agency details at https://www.pestboard.ca.gov/.
How often do you renew a Pest Control Worker license in California?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.