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Private Applicator License

What Is a Private Applicator?

A private applicator is a certified individual who uses or supervises the use of Restricted Use Pesticides (RUPs) to produce agricultural commodities on property they or their employer own or rent (e.g., farmers, ranchers, and growers).

Note: This license does not apply to home gardeners. RUPs are not approved for home garden use.

How to Get a Private Applicator License

Step 1: Obtain Certification or Recertification

Private applicators must complete certification or recertification every five years. You have three options:

  • Option 1: In-Person Training
    • Attend a Private Applicator Training session provided by the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service.
    • Contact your county extension office or visit their website for a schedule.
  • Option 2: Online Training
  • Option 3: Exam
    • Pass the Private Applicator Exam, administered by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture.
    • Exams are held in Little Rock on scheduled dates.

Additional Training (Required Annually)

  • Dicamba Training: Required if applying dicamba on pasture, rangeland, non-dicamba crops, or for burndown use.
  • Enlist Herbicide Training: Required if applying Enlist One or Enlist Duo.

Both training courses are available online through the Cooperative Extension Service and must be renewed annually.

Step 2: Submit License Application

After completing certification, submit the Private Applicator Application Form (DP-25) and required fee.

First-Time Applicants

Option 1 – By Mail:

Arkansas Department of Agriculture
Plant Industries Division, Pesticide Section
#1 Natural Resources Drive
Little Rock, AR 72205

Make checks/money orders payable to: Arkansas State Plant Board

Option 2 – Online:

  • Visit the Pesticide Section Forms webpage.
  • Scroll to “Application Forms and Associated Fees to be Submitted Online” and follow instructions.

Renewing Your License

Renewal reminders will be mailed or emailed about 30 days before license expiration.

Option 1 – By Mail:

  • Use the renewal form sent to you.
  • Make any corrections, sign, and return it with payment.

Option 2 – Online:

Note: Emailed forms cannot be accepted.

Certification Timing and License Duration

  • Certification must be current within 48 months for a 1-year license.
  • Certification must be within the past 12 months (with no prior license on that certification) to qualify for a 5-year license.
  • All licenses expire on the last day of the month, either 1 or 5 years from issuance.

After Submission

Once your application is reviewed and approved, your license will be mailed or emailed. You can also view and print your license online here.

For Restricted Use Pesticide Dealers

Licensed dealers can use the License Search & Verification system to look up currently licensed private applicators.