Any Private Pesticide Applicator in Minnesota using Restricted Use Pesticides (RUP) with an aerial application (fixed wing, rotor, or drone) in an on-farm operation must be a currently certified private pesticide applicator and also obtain General Aerial Endorsement for Private Pesticide Applicator Certification. A list of certified private pesticide applicators can be found in the MDA’s online database.
Aerial applications require applicators to comply with specified safety practices and required personal protective equipment. Applicators must follow all state and federal laws for aerial application.
Applicator certification
When Private Pesticide Applicator Certification expires a person must retest or attend a recertification workshop and pay fees to renew.
Receiving endorsement
General Aerial: To receive a private General Aerial Endorsement, you must pass a closed book test administered by the MDA or a County Agricultural Inspector. This endorsement expires along with the date of your Private Pesticide Applicator certification, regardless of when the endorsement is acquired.
Locations: Schedule an exam at the MDA or at a greater Minnesota testing location with electronic testing. View Pesticide Testing Locations.
Re-endorsement: A person can recertify for an endorsement by retesting. General Aerial re-endorsement is the same as the initial endorsement. There is no charge for Private Applicators to take the General Aerial exam. Re-endorsement may also be acquired by General Aerial Workshops. There is a $5.00 charge to reprint identification cards with new dates of endorsement. To avoid duplicate fees, the MDA will delay printing your identification card until you pass the General Aerial Endorsement exam. Please contact the MDA Licensing & Certification Unit at 651-201-6615 for information.
Things to know
Before applying aerially, you must read and follow all label instructions. Aerial applicators need additional certification. See the link below for additional information.
Drones - Aeronautics and Aviation | Minnesota Department of Transportation
