A private applicator's pesticide license for purchasing restricted use pesticides may be obtained the following way.

• Study material is available for preparing for the private applicator test.  The National Pesticide Applicator Certification Core Manual  is $15, plus tax.  You may order the core manual through the LSU AgCenter's Online Store at  https://store.lsuagcenter.com/ 
• After studying, you can take the test at the Franklin Parish Extension office between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. The test consists of 100 multiple choice questions. 
• A picture ID is required before taking the test.
• The test is mailed by certified mail to the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry in Baton Rouge for grading.  If a passing score (70 percent or above) is obtained, you will be notified by mail on how to proceed with the licensing process. 
• The license is issued by the Louisiana Department of Agriculture for a fee of $25.
• The license needs to be renewed every three years before March 31. 

The license may be renewed by attending a recertification training meeting offered by the LSU AgCenter.  Training must be completed prior to the expiration date of the license or retesting will be required.  Recertification training is offered by the county agent in Franklin Parish in December, January or February.  Call the Franklin Parish Extension office at 318-435-7551 for more information.