Core Applicator Prep Free practice test · By state · By topic · Full pack $19

Unofficial · Updated September 2026

Pesticide Applicator Practice Test: Free Core Exam Questions + Printable PDF

Studying for your state pesticide applicator license? Every state tests the core (general standards): labels, safety, PPE, environment, IPM, formulations, calibration, and laws. Try 10 free questions below with instant answers and explanations. When you're ready, get 5 full practice tests (250 questions) + a 1-page cheat sheet as a printable PDF for $19.

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Written from the public federal core standards (40 CFR 171.103) and EPA's public training material. Not affiliated with any agency. Not real exam questions.

Free 10-question core exam sample

1. Which signal word indicates the highest acute toxicity to humans when taken orally?

Answer: B. DANGER-POISON (plus the skull and crossbones and PELIGRO) marks the most acutely toxic products, Toxicity Category I by oral, dermal, or inhalation route.

2. Pesticide risk is best described as a function of:

Answer: D. Risk = toxicity x exposure. Even a low-toxicity product can be risky at high exposure, and cutting exposure reduces risk.

3. A temperature inversion is a condition where:

Answer: D. During an inversion, still, cool air near the surface can hold fine spray droplets and carry them long distances. Inversions are common on calm, clear mornings and evenings.

4. The first step in any pest management program is:

Answer: B. Correct identification tells you whether control is needed and which methods and products will work.

5. A herbicide that kills only certain kinds of plants is called:

Answer: C. Selective herbicides control certain plants (for example, broadleaf weeds) with little harm to others. Non-selective herbicides kill most plants they contact.

6. Calibration is the process of:

Answer: A. Calibration confirms the equipment delivers the labeled rate over the intended area.

7. A band application is:

Answer: D. Band treatments cover narrow strips, reducing the total pesticide used compared with broadcast treatment.

8. Which federal law governs pesticide registration, labeling, classification, and applicator certification?

Answer: C. FIFRA is the main federal pesticide law, administered by the EPA.

9. A certified applicator who supervises noncertified applicators using restricted-use pesticides is:

Answer: B. 40 CFR 171.201 places responsibility on the supervising certified applicator for training, instructions, and communication.

10. One acre equals approximately how many square feet?

Answer: C. 1 acre = 43,560 square feet.
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What the core exam covers

Federal rules require every commercial applicator core exam to address 10 competency areas. Practice each one free:

Want more? Take the free 25-question practice test.

Practice by state

The core is similar everywhere. Each state page lists the agency that licenses applicators and has 10 free sample questions.

FAQ

Is this the real exam?

No. These are original practice questions written to the federal core competency standards (40 CFR 171.103). Real exam questions are confidential. Use practice tests to find weak areas, and study your state's official manual.

Does this cover my state?

It covers the national core (general standards) topics every state tests. Most states also test their own pesticide laws and the category you're licensing in (for example turf, right-of-way, or structural). Check your state agency for those.

How many questions are on the core exam?

It varies by state. Many core exams have 50 to 100 multiple-choice questions and require about 70% to pass. Check your state's testing information.

Which core manual edition does this follow?

Questions are written from the federal competency standards and public EPA training material, not copied from any manual. A 3rd edition (2025) national core manual is being adopted state by state in 2026, so confirm which edition your state uses.

How do I get the PDF after paying?

After paying, go to the After Payment page on this site and tap I've paid to open your pack instantly. Trouble? Email your PayPal receipt to djarmicki@gmail.com.

Can I get a refund?

Yes. If the pack doesn't help, email within 30 days of purchase for a full refund.