Anyone applying pesticides as a service must be certified and registered as what?

The correct answer is that anyone applying pesticides as a service must be certified and registered as a commercial pesticide applicator. This distinction is important because commercial pesticide applicators are those who apply pesticides for pay or other compensation. They are required to meet specific training and certification standards set by regulatory agencies, ensuring that they possess the necessary knowledge and skills to apply pesticides safely and effectively.

Being a commercial pesticide applicator means adhering to strict guidelines regarding pesticide application, including complying with safety regulations, understanding the environmental impacts, and being trained in pest management practices. This level of certification is crucial, as it helps protect public health, the environment, and ensures that pesticide products are used according to label instructions and legal requirements.

In contrast, a private pesticide applicator typically uses pesticides for personal use or on their own property, and the restricted pesticide applicator is a designation for those with specialized training for handling specific types of pesticides. The term "state licensed pesticide user" is not a recognized category in the certification structure for pesticide applicators, making the commercial pesticide applicator the clear requirement for someone applying pesticides as a service.