Preparing Applicators for a Smooth Transition to New Exam Provider
The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is significantly extending its testing hours for Florida Pesticide Certification Exams, urging applicators to act quickly before a major transition in the state’s licensing process.
Florida’s vital pesticide applicators, responsible for safely maintaining pest-free homes, businesses, and farms, are required to routinely pass licensing exams. Historically, UF/IFAS has served as the primary proctor for these crucial tests. However, this role is set to change.
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The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) has announced that it has selected a new contractor, Everblue, to take over all pesticide exams in Florida. UF/IFAS’s proctoring responsibilities will officially conclude this fall.
To facilitate a smooth transition, UF/IFAS Extension is strongly encouraging pesticide applicators to register for exams as soon as possible if they wish to complete their testing at an Extension office.
“UF/IFAS will be providing testing up until Sept. 30, and after that, we will continue to serve our stakeholders through recertification, training, preparing for the exam itself, the study manuals for the exam and writing the exam,” said Brett Bultemeier, director of the UF/IFAS Pesticide Information Office. “This gives us the opportunity to focus on what we do best, which is education.”
Since 2021, UF/IFAS, in partnership with Everblue, has offered remote exams across Florida. Everblue will not only continue its remote testing services but will also become the sole provider for in-person tests beginning October 1st.
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During the transitional period, services will overlap. UF/IFAS will continue to offer free testing at UF/IFAS Extension offices through September 30th. Registration for these in-person UF/IFAS tests can be done via the UF/IFAS pesticide exam website, with scheduling available after August 5th.
After this transition, users will schedule online Everblue exams directly through FDACS and Everblue, moving away from the current UF/IFAS exam schedule platform. A specific weblink for this new registration process is expected to be released closer to August 5th. In-person exams at new Everblue centers are slated to launch no later than October 1st, with a map of their locations to be shared prior to their opening.
A new fee structure will also be implemented with this change. Everblue in-person exams will cost $59, while online exams will be $32. UF/IFAS exams will remain free of charge until October 1st. Despite the change in proctoring, UF/IFAS will continue to play a vital role in exam preparation, including offering valuable Continuing Education Units (CEUs).
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