Wisconsin pest control license lookup: how to check and get a license
Wisconsin pest control license lookup: who issues exterminator licenses (DATCP), how to check one online, the license types, and 150 exterminating and pest control services by county.
Do exterminators need a license in Wisconsin?
| Who licenses them | Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) |
|---|---|
| License types | Pesticide Business License, Individual Commercial Applicator License, Commercial Applicator Certification (by category) |
| When a license is required | License and certification required for any for-hire pesticide application, Wis. Stat. 94.703-94.705 |
For-hire pest control applicators need category certification, an annual individual applicator license and must work for a licensed pesticide business. DATCP links to the Kelly Solutions database for looking up licensed applicators.
How do you look up an exterminator's license in Wisconsin?
- Ask the exterminator for the license number and the exact business name on the license.
- Open the Wisconsin pest control license lookup run by DATCP.
- 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 DATCP.
What pest control licenses does Wisconsin issue?
- Pesticide Business License
- Individual Commercial Applicator License
- Commercial Applicator Certification (by category)
How do you get a pest control license in Wisconsin?
Licenses are issued by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP). Requirements such as experience, exams, insurance and fees change, so read the current rules on the official DATCP source before you apply. Already licensed? List your business on Expert Helper to get matched with customers.
Which Wisconsin city is the job in?
How many exterminators are there in Wisconsin?
The Census Bureau counted 150 exterminating and pest control services with employees in Wisconsin in 2023. The counties with the most:
| Waukesha County | 22 |
|---|---|
| Dane County | 19 |
| Milwaukee County | 11 |
| Winnebago County | 9 |
| Brown County | 8 |
| Washington County | 6 |
| Manitowoc County | 6 |
| La Crosse County | 6 |
What do Wisconsin homes mean for pest control work?
The median home in Wisconsin was built in 1975, 32% of households rent and 71% of homes are single-family houses. 65% of homes heat with utility gas and 17% with electricity, and 2% with fuel oil.
How do you choose an exterminator in Wisconsin?
- 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: Wisconsin licensing agency (linked above); US Census Bureau County Business Patterns 2023 and ACS 2023 5-year estimates.