Last year featured a number of new challenges, and the 2020 license renewal season was no exception. The Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) received a higher proportion of renewal applications later in the season that resulted in a backlog of applications, longer processing times, and some licensees experiencing a lapse in their licenses. As we look forward to the 2021 renewal season, DPR hopes to reduce the incidence of these challenging delays.
When and What to Submit for the Fastest Turnaround
In order to prevent a lapse in the valid license period, DPR recommends that you submit your renewal applications by October 1st. While postmarking renewal applications by the December 31st deadline ensures that you will not be charged a late fee, renewals still take time to process and you will likely receive your license much later in the new year than you would like. This is especially important if you are the Qualified Person for a Pest Control Business as the business may not operate without you having a renewed license. If you are renewing a Pest Control Business license, DPR recommends that the Qualified Person’s renewal be submitted simultaneously with the business renewal by October 1st. Submitting by October 1st allows time for all licenses to be processed earlier in the year, getting you your license sooner and allowing your business to register with the county (if applicable) before the new year is in full swing.
To reduce delays in the processing of your renewal application, double check that you have appropriately signed your application, as well as included any supplementary records required before mailing the packet. If you are renewing an individual license or certificate, please confirm that you have met or exceeded all continuing education requirements. If you are renewing a Pest Control Business license, you should confirm that your Qualified Person is renewed and that there is current liability information for the business on file with DPR.
When you are sure that your application packet is complete, please mail it to DPR:
Department of Pesticide Regulation
Attn: Cashier MS-4A
P.O. Box 4015
Sacramento, CA 95812-4015
Please note that the Licensing and Certification Program moved offices in May 2020, and cannot accept hand-delivered applications.
How Long Will I Wait?
Mailing times vary, and postal service delays such as those experienced in 2020 can delay your renewal getting to DPR. Please ensure you allow extra time for postal service handling. Once you mail your application packet, you should monitor your bank or credit card records to make sure that your renewal application arrived at DPR. Payment clearing is proof that DPR has received your application and processing has started. You should anticipate that it takes up to 60 days for your application to be processed completely and your license to renew if you submit it to DPR by October 1st, but can take 75 days or more if you submit your renewal in late December. Please note that DPR processes all applications in the order received.
While 2020 was a difficult year, it illuminated areas for improvement. By submitting correctly completed, signed renewal applications earlier in the year, you can avoid lapses in your licenses for 2022.
For additional information about DPR Licensing and Certification Program, please visit our Program’s web page: http://cdpr.ca.gov/docs/license/liccert.htm
If you have questions for the Licensing and Certification Program, including renewals, please email us and include your full name and/or business name and your license number in your email. This allows DPR to respond more effectively to any inquiries and better meet your needs.
Department of Pesticide Regulation
Licensing and Certification Program
