Farmers and ranchers who use pesticides in their agricultural production may be need special pesticides. Such Private Applicators may acquire a license if they need to purchase or use Restricted Use pesticides.
Private Applicator Categories
- Private Restricted Agricultural Pesticides (PRAP)
Private applicators using restricted-use pesticides (including insecticides, herbicides, rodenticides, etc.) in the production of an agricultural commodity.
- PM44 and PLPC
Private applicators using M-44 or LPC devices to control predators on land they own or manage
How do I get a Private Applicator license?
You must pass an exam with a 70% or better. Once you’ve passed you will submit the license fee to NMDA.
You can either take the exam online or make an appointment to take a paper exam. To apply for the online exam go to www.pesttestonline.com/NMPA
If you do not want to take the exam online please contact the Pesticide Compliance Department to take the paper exam.
Preparing for the Private Applicator exam
The exam covers several aspects of agricultural pesticide use:
- How to use pesticides safely and effectively
- Reading and understanding labels
- Identification, biology, and control of agricultural insects, weeds, and diseases
- NM Pesticide Control Act & Rules as they apply to Private Applicators
- Federal laws that apply to Private Applicators, including the Worker Protection Standard and USDA Pesticide Recordkeeping requirements
Study Material for the Private Applicator exam
- Ag Pest & Weed Control Manual – can be purchased from NMDA or viewed and printed here.
Renewing your Private Applicators License
Private Applicator licenses are good for five years. Before the expiration date you’ll receive a license renewal form in the mail. If you attended workshops and courses you may renew your license. By earning at least 5 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) during the five-year license period, you will be eligible for renewal. Sign the license renewal form and mail it with the fee to NMDA.
If an applicant has not earned their CEUs AND renewed their license by mailing back their renewal form and fee then the applicant must take the exam again. View upcoming CEU workshops here.
Recordkeeping form for Private Applicators with all the elements required by NM and Federal law.
Brad Lewis, AES Division Director
ddaes@nmda.nmsu.edu
575-646-3207