Who Can Apply Pesticides on Your Course? A Quick Guide to Michigan's Applicator Rules
Michigan law (MCL 324.8314) requires that anyone who applies pesticides as part of their job hold their own credential, either as a certified applicator or a registered applicator.
Certified vs. Registered Applicators
- Certified commercial applicators pass the commercial core exam and at least one category exam (3A Turfgrass for most golf course work). They can apply both general-use and restricted-use pesticides (RUPs).
- Registered applicators can apply general-use pesticides only, never RUPs, under the supervision of a certified applicator. The certified applicator doesn't have to be physically on site for general-use applications.
- Restricted-use pesticides must be applied by a certified applicator or under one's supervision, with written instructions when the certified applicator isn't present. If the label requires it, the certified applicator has to be physically there.
- New employees with no credential can apply general-use pesticides for up to two consecutive weeks as part of an approved training program, but only with a certified applicator physically present. The trainer must notify MDARD before that period starts.
How a Crew Member Becomes a Registered Applicator
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Complete an MDARD-approved, category-specific training program led by an MDARD-approved trainer.
- Pass the commercial core exam, either at a Metro Institute testing center ($55) or online with remote proctoring ($65). Schedule it at metrosignup.com.
- Submit the Commercial Applicator Registration Application and the $45 fee to MDARD.
Registered applicator credentials are good for three years and expire on December 31 of the third year.
Setting Up a Training Program at Your Course
To train registered applicators in-house, your course needs an MDARD-approved trainer and program:
- The trainer must hold a current commercial certification in the category they'll teach (such as 3A Turfgrass) and have at least two seasons of experience applying in it.
- The trainer must pass the Registered Applicator Trainer Exam (72% to pass) using MDARD's Registered Applicator Trainer Manual.
- The course submits a written training program to MDARD covering the required topics: pests, environmental fate, formulations and calibration, protecting nontarget organisms, IPM, container disposal and storage, and worker safety. MDARD sends an approval letter naming the approved trainers and categories, and training can't begin until you have it.
Who to Contact
- MSU Pesticide Safety Education Program: Dr. Safa Alzohairy, safa@msu.edu (trainer exam and help building a program)
- MDARD Pesticide Certification: Lauren Gott, GottL@michigan.gov
More Information
This summary is for general guidance. Always follow the pesticide label and check current requirements with MDARD.