What pesticide classification requires applicator certifications and licensing under Federal and State law?

The classification that requires applicator certifications and licensing under Federal and State law is restricted use. This classification is designed for pesticides that pose a higher risk of causing harm to human health or the environment if not used correctly. Because of the potential dangers associated with restricted use pesticides, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and individual state regulatory agencies have established strict requirements for their application.

Applicators of restricted use pesticides must undergo specific training and certification, ensuring that they are knowledgeable about proper handling, application techniques, and safety protocols. This helps to minimize risks to non-target organisms, including humans, pets, and beneficial wildlife, as well as to protect water sources and ecosystems.

The other classifications, such as general use and over-the-counter use, do not have the same stringent requirements for applicators since they are considered safe for the average consumer to use without specialized training. Unrestricted use may also imply less regulatory oversight compared to restricted use, further differentiating it from the certification needs associated with restricted use pesticides.