Which steps are required to obtain pesticide certification in Kentucky?

• A. Pass only the Core exam.
• B. Complete continuing education credits before testing.
• C. Pass the Core exam and the category-specific exam(s), submit an application to the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, and pay the required fees.
• D. Submit an application to the county office.

Answer: (C)

Initial pesticide certification in Kentucky requires showing both general understanding and category-specific knowledge, plus a formal submission and payment to have the credential issued. You start by passing the Core exam, which covers general pesticide handling, safety, labeling, and regulatory requirements that apply to all pesticides. Then you must pass the category-specific exam(s) for the pesticide category you want to be certified in, demonstrating you can apply those general principles to that category’s products and uses. Once you’ve proven you have both the broad and category-specific knowledge, you submit an application to the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and pay the required fees so your certification can be issued and recorded. Continuing education credits are generally required for renewing certification, not for obtaining it, and the process is handled by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, not a county office.