BELLVILLE — If you plan on using a state-limited- use or state-restricted- use pesticide, such as Grazon P+D, 2 4-D, Weedmaster, etc., and need a license, the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service of Austin County is hosting several Private Applicator Training classes during 2026 at the Austin County Extension Office at 800 E Wendt St. in Bellville.
Books and study materials for the course may be purchased ahead of time at the extension office for $50. A registration fee of $10 will be charged for the training. The registration fee will include the training and additional study materials. Payments need to be made by check or cash (exact change please).
Training will begin at 1 p.m. and conclude at 5 p.m., available on the following days in 2026: Friday, Jan.
23; Friday, May 1; Friday, Aug. 14; Friday, Nov. 13.
The Texas Department of Agriculture, which oversees the testing and administration of Applicator Licensing, has contracted with Metro Institute to administer the exam for agriculture pesticide applicator licensing. Applicants will coordinate testing with Metro Institute at one of their 31 locations around Texas. Details on the process, locations, cost, and other pertinent information will be provided at the training.
Once applicants have completed the training and passed the exam with a score of 70 or above, they may apply for the Private Applicator License, allowing for the purchase of all state limited-use and restricted- use pesticides used in agriculture.
For questions about licensing or exam, please contact TDA at 800-8355832 or 512-463-7622 or Texas Department of Agriculture – Agriculture Pesticide Program, P.O. Box 12847, Austin, TX 78711. Questions about the classes, contact Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agent Stacie Villarreal at 979-865-2072.
