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Restricted-Use Pesticide Certification

Some pesticides are classified as restricted use and can be bought and applied only by certified applicators or those working under their supervision. This guide explains the idea and sends you to your state for the details.

What is a restricted-use pesticide?

A restricted-use pesticide is a product that the Environmental Protection Agency has classified as available only to certified applicators or persons under their direct supervision, because of the potential for harm to people or the environment. The label will say if a product is restricted use.

This article does not list products or give requirements. Check the label of the specific product and ask your state lead agency.

Having a product restricted does not mean it is more dangerous in every setting. It means the agency decided that training and supervision should be a condition of use, which is why the label statement is so important.

• Look for the words restricted use pesticide on the front panel.
• Ask your dealer to explain sales requirements.
• Keep the label with your certification papers.

Who needs to be certified?

Anyone who applies restricted-use products generally must be certified or work under the supervision of a certified applicator. The rules around supervision, such as how close the certified person must be, are set by federal and state requirements and may differ.

If you are not sure, do not apply until you have confirmed with your state agency. A mistake can bring penalties and can put people at risk.

Supervision rules are especially important on farms with family members and seasonal helpers. Ask your state exactly what direct supervision means and whether the certified person must be present.

How does certification work?

States and tribes run certification programs under federal standards. They typically involve studying material on safe handling, laws and the labeling system, and passing an exam. Some programs have categories for different types of application.

Many cooperative extension offices offer study material and training sessions. Ask which ones your state recommends and when exams are held.

Study time varies from person to person. Allow weeks rather than days if you have not studied for an exam for a long time, and ask whether practice questions or classes are offered. After passing, keep your study materials. Renewal sessions often cover the same topics, and your notes will help you remember details that changed.

• Contact your state lead agency.
• Ask which category fits your work.
• Ask about training and study materials.
• Ask about exam locations and requirements.

What does certification not cover?

Certification is a minimum, not a guarantee of safe practice. It does not replace reading the label every time, using protective equipment or following recordkeeping and worker protection rules. Each product and each situation requires attention.

Certified applicators also have duties in training and supervising others. Ask your agency what is expected of you.

Certification does not replace worker protection duties. Employers still need to provide information, training and equipment to the people who work for them.

How does it connect to records and storage?

Restricted-use products come with record-keeping requirements. Keep records as your state directs and store these products securely, since they are among the most hazardous available.

Check your state's rules on sales and purchases, as dealers may require proof of certification.

• Locked storage
• Purchase and sales records
• Application records kept as your state directs

How do I keep certification current?

Certification typically has to be renewed through continuing education or retesting, and the schedule differs by state. Do not wait until the last minute, since sessions fill up and exam dates are limited.

Keep a copy of your certification and renewal information with your records and know who can answer questions in your state.

If you move to another state, do not assume your certification transfers. Ask the new state about reciprocity and whether you need to complete a different process. Mark the renewal date on a calendar in the shop and in your phone. Some people set the reminder several months ahead, so that there is room to attend a session.

What if I do not want to be certified?

Many farms hire a certified custom applicator for restricted-use products. That is a legitimate choice. Ask for the applicator's certification information and records, and make sure the work follows the label and your instructions.

Do not borrow someone else's certification or let an uncertified person apply a restricted-use product.

Ask whether your state offers a path for farm family members to learn alongside you, even if they do not apply products themselves.

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Farm Safety Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.