How to get a Pest Control license in Illinois
The full Illinois pest control licensing path — experience hours, required exam, fees, and where to apply. Verified 5/26/2026.
Career prep, not a license.
Prep for the Illinois Pest Control exam
Pest Control 101 — Start Here (Free) — self-paced lessons, practice exam, certificate of completion.
License details
Commercial Pesticide Applicator
Verified 5/26/2026
Experience required
Trainee hours required
Required exam
CORE + Category exam (IDA)
Licensing authority
Notes & fees
Required category(ies) plus general standards exam.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a pest control license in Illinois?
You need trainee hours required. Then pass the CORE + Category exam administered by IDA. Applications go through the Illinois Department of Agriculture.
What exam do I need to pass?
CORE + Category exam — administered by IDA.
How much experience do I need?
Trainee hours required
What about fees, insurance, and continuing education?
Required category(ies) plus general standards exam.
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