Minnesota pest control license lookup: how to check and get a license
Minnesota pest control license lookup: who issues exterminator licenses (MDA), how to check one online, the license types, and 75 exterminating and pest control services by county.
Do exterminators need a license in Minnesota?
| Who licenses them | Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) |
|---|---|
| License types | Structural Pest Control Company License, Master Structural Pest Control Applicator, Journeyman Structural Pest Control Applicator, Fumigation Endorsement |
| When a license is required | License required before commercially applying any pesticide in or around structures for hire |
Applicators must work for a licensed company that employs at least one Master applicator and meets MDA financial responsibility rules.
How do you look up an exterminator's license in Minnesota?
- Ask the exterminator for the license number and the exact business name on the license.
- Open the Minnesota pest control license lookup run by MDA.
- Search by license number first. A name search can return several people or companies with similar names.
- Check that the status is active or current, that the license type covers your job, and that the name matches the company on your contract.
- If something doesn't match, ask the exterminator about it before you sign or pay a deposit, or contact MDA.
What pest control licenses does Minnesota issue?
- Structural Pest Control Company License
- Master Structural Pest Control Applicator
- Journeyman Structural Pest Control Applicator
- Fumigation Endorsement
How do you get a pest control license in Minnesota?
Licenses are issued by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA). Requirements such as experience, exams, insurance and fees change, so read the current rules on the official MDA source before you apply. Already licensed? List your business on Expert Helper to get matched with customers.
How many exterminators are there in Minnesota?
The Census Bureau counted 75 exterminating and pest control services with employees in Minnesota in 2023. The counties with the most:
| Hennepin County | 19 |
|---|---|
| Anoka County | 10 |
| Washington County | 6 |
| Ramsey County | 6 |
| Wright County | 5 |
| Dakota County | 4 |
| Crow Wing County | 4 |
| Stearns County | 3 |
What do Minnesota homes mean for pest control work?
The median home in Minnesota was built in 1978, 28% of households rent and 74% of homes are single-family houses. 65% of homes heat with utility gas and 19% with electricity, and 1% with fuel oil.
How do you choose an exterminator in Minnesota?
- Ask for the business registration and the applicator's state certification number, and check them with the state agency.
- Ask what product they'll use and where, and what you need to do before and after (pets, kids, food, laundry for bed bugs).
- Prefer companies that inspect and seal entry points (integrated pest management) over ones that only spray.
- For bed bugs, ask how many visits are included and whether a follow-up inspection is part of the price.
- Get the guarantee in writing: what happens if the pests come back within 30 or 90 days.
Exterminators & Pest Control in other states
Sources: Minnesota licensing agency (linked above); US Census Bureau County Business Patterns 2023 and ACS 2023 5-year estimates.