What license is needed to purchase or apply Restricted-Use Pesticides (RUP) in Kentucky?

• A. A certified applicator license in the appropriate category (core plus the relevant category)
• B. A general pesticide license
• C. A private applicator license only
• D. A license from the county agricultural office

Answer: (A)

To legally purchase or apply Restricted-Use Pesticides in Kentucky, you must hold a certified pesticide applicator license in the appropriate category, including the core knowledge. The core covers essential safety, laws, and general pesticide handling, while the category specifies the particular type of use (such as agricultural crops, ornamentals/t turf, or structural Pest control). Without both the core and the relevant category, you aren’t authorized to buy or apply RUPs.

General pesticide licenses aren’t sufficient, since they don’t guarantee category-specific training. A private applicator license is designed for private-use scenarios on property you own or manage and may not cover all RUP categories required for professional use. Licensing is administered at the state level, not by a county agricultural office.