By Andi Anderson
Michigan pesticide applicators will have multiple opportunities this winter and spring to complete certification and recertification requirements through the Michigan State University Extension’s Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP) and the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD).
The Michigan Pesticide Applicator Core Review Sessions are designed to help applicators prepare for Restricted Use Pesticide (RUP) exams, earn credits, and maintain certification.
Certification is required for anyone applying or supervising the use of restricted-use pesticides in Michigan. It ensures applicators can handle pesticides safely and responsibly in compliance with state and federal regulations.
Three certification types are available: Private, Commercial, and Registered Applicator—each with different requirements and responsibilities.
The Core Review Sessions provide a four-hour morning review covering each chapter of the National Pesticide Applicator Certification Core Manual, followed by on-site MDARD testing in the afternoon.
Tests include Private Core, Commercial Core, Fumigation Standard, and Aerial Standard exams in both English and Spanish. These sessions are especially useful for first-time applicants and those renewing certification. Participants can also earn four RUP recertification credits for the core section.
The cost is $25 per person, payable by credit or debit card during registration or by mailing a check to MSU. Separate MDARD certification fees are $50 for private applicators and $75 for commercial applicators.
Between November 2025 and May 2026, 28 sessions will be held across Michigan. A full schedule, along with registration links, can be found on the MDARD In-Person Core Testing and Core Review webpage.
Applicators who prefer online options can complete testing through the Metro Institute, which offers computer-based in-person exams ($55) or remotely proctored exams ($65).
Additional educational events, including the Michigan Greenhouse Growers Expo and Great Lakes Expo (Dec. 9–11, 2025, in Grand Rapids), also provide opportunities to earn RUP credits.
For more details, visit the MDARD Pesticide Applicator Certification webpage or contact MSU Extension for local registration assistance.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu-extension
Categories: Michigan, Education