What Pesticide License Do You Need to Spray by Drone in Your State?
Every state requires a pesticide applicator license for drone spraying. Quick reference: aerial categories, exams, fees, and unique rules for all 50 states.
All 50 US states require a commercial pesticide applicator license with an aerial category endorsement for drone pesticide application. Requirements vary from 2 exams and $35 (South Dakota) to separate drone credentials, 50 hours flight experience, and over $500 in fees (Oregon, California). Six states have drone-specific credentials or mandatory drone training programs: California, North Dakota, Arizona, Michigan, Louisiana, and Minnesota.
The baseline
Every state requires three things: FAA Part 107, FAA Part 137, and a state commercial pesticide applicator license with an aerial category endorsement. Beyond that baseline, everything varies. Our state licensing hub tracks every requirement.
Six states with drone-specific credentials
- California: Unmanned Pest Control Aircraft Pilot Certificate (Apprentice / Journeyman)
- North Dakota: standalone Unmanned Aerial Applicator License from the Aeronautics Commission
- Arizona: Drone Pilot License (DPL), separate from manned aircraft
- Michigan: MDARD-approved UAV training program required
- Louisiana: mandatory LSU AgCenter Drone Safety Program before certification
- Minnesota: MnDOT aircraft registration plus aerial endorsement
States with unique restrictions
- Ohio: even private applicators need a commercial license for drones
- Iowa: in-state aerial applicator consultant required
- Oregon: 50 hours flight experience before APA license application
- Arkansas: CAT license invalid for drones; ag crops only
- Tennessee: $150 aircraft decal per drone
- Vermont: 30-day public comment aerial permit
- Maine: 80 percent passing score (highest nationally)
- Connecticut: per-application aerial permit with $200 to $565 fees
Cheapest states to get licensed
South Dakota ($35 for two years), Indiana (free exams at Purdue, $45/year), Kentucky ($10/exam, $25 license). If you are just testing the business model before committing, these three are the lowest-friction paths to a legal first pass. Full business-launch sequence at start a drone business.
Most expensive states
New York ($100/exam, $450 for three years on the first category), California ($265 pilot application + $115/exam + $320 QAC), Tennessee ($150 decal + $200 pilot + $150 exam application).
Best reciprocity
Minnesota: 18 states. Pennsylvania: 25+ states. Worst: Arkansas and Hawaii (zero reciprocity). Reciprocity usually requires the host state's laws-and-regulations exam even when the core exam transfers. Pair your home state license with a well-reciprocating neighbor for the widest operating region per dollar.
How to get started
Pick your home state first. The full state directory links to the licensing page and operator listings for every state. Schedule the exam, schedule Part 107, then submit your Part 137 package. Study plans and test-prep providers live on the training and certification page.
Authority sources
Frequently asked questions
Washington (2 exams, no standalone aerial category, WSDA confirms drones are legal wherever airblast is legal) or South Dakota ($35 two-year license, straightforward Category 17). Both can be completed in a single study cycle.
Only with a reciprocity agreement. Minnesota recognizes 18 states. Pennsylvania has 25+ reciprocal partners. Many states require their own laws exam even with reciprocity. Arkansas and Hawaii grant zero reciprocity.
Yes, unless reciprocity covers you. Most multi-state operators hold 3 to 5 state licenses covering their operating region. Start with your home state, then add neighbors as you expand.