Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Announces Updates to Pesticide Applicator Rules to Align with EPA Standards

Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Announces Updates to Pesticide Applicator Rules to Align with EPA Standards

Rule changes align with federal standards and take effect January 1, 2026

DES MOINES, Iowa (Nov. 6, 2025) - The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) today provided updates to Iowa's pesticide applicator certification and training rules. The new standards, which take effect January 1, 2026, are required to bring Iowa's program into alignment with federal requirements established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Summary of Key Changes Required by EPA

Minimum Age Requirements

• Commercial, private, and noncertified applicators must be at least 18 years old to apply Restricted Use Pesticides (RUPs).

• Immediate family members 16 years and older may apply RUPs on their family farm under the direct supervision of a certified private applicator if qualification requirements are met.

Noncertified Applicator Use and Supervision

• Noncertified applicators may qualify to apply RUPs for up to 21 days after initial employment under direct supervision.

  • "Direct supervision" means the certified applicator must be physically present at the application site and within sight or hearing distance of the noncertified applicator.

Qualification Requirements for Noncertified Applicators

• A noncertified applicator must meet one of the following prior to RUP application under supervision to qualify:

  • Already hold certification in another category or jurisdiction

  • Completed an IDALS-approved noncertified applicator training program

  • Completed an EPA Worker Protection Standard Handler Training

Enhanced Supervision and Recordkeeping Requirements

• Requires more rigorous supervision and record keeping for certified applicators supervising noncertified applicators using RUPs.
  

Testing and Certification Standards

• All applicants will take updated written or online exams that meet EPA requirements for examination and competency standards. The oral examination option for private applicator certification is discontinued.

• Un-proctored online exams offered during COVID are no longer available.

Civil Penalties for Private Applicators

• Civil penalties may be assessed up to $500 per violation for misuse or noncompliance by private applicators under Iowa Code 206.19.

Alignment with Federal Standards

• These updates ensure Iowa's program meets EPA Certified Applicator Rule standards as a condition of the State of Iowa remaining a co-regulator with EPA.

The Department reminds all pesticide applicators to carefully read and follow all label instructions, maintain accurate records, and ensure that anyone applying RUPs has received appropriate training and supervision. Safe and proper use protects applicators, their families, neighbors, and the environment. Updated study materials and training manuals will be available through Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.

Additional information about Iowa's applicator licensing, certification, and training requirements is available on the Department's website. For questions about the new requirements or for a complete listing of the applicator rule changes, contact the IDALS Pesticide Bureau at 515-281-8591 or [email protected].

Resources

New Certified Private and Commercial Applicators Going into Effect in 2026

Understanding the Pesticide Applicator Rule Changes