Below is a breakdown of states known to offer reciprocity for aerial applicator licenses based on available data as of April 7, 2025. Note that specifics can change, so always verify with the relevant state’s Department of Agriculture or equivalent agency.
- Minnesota: Offers reciprocity with adjacent states (North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Wisconsin) and others including Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas, and Wyoming. Non-residents must provide proof of residency (e.g., driver’s license) and a valid pesticide license from their home state. Aerial applicators moving to Minnesota must complete a recertification workshop or pass Minnesota exams.
- Nebraska: Reciprocates with states like Colorado, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming. Aerial applicators need a photocopy of their FAA commercial pilot’s license and proof of aerial safety training within the last three years (e.g., NAAA PAASS attendance or Nebraska Aerial category exam). Points of departure must be identified, and a resident agent appointed for legal purposes.
- Texas: Has reciprocity agreements for commercial and non-commercial applicators with several states (specific states not fully listed in available data but include common partners like Oklahoma and Louisiana). Applicants must pass Texas’ General Standards exam, be in good standing in their home state, and provide financial responsibility proof if commercial. Aerial-specific requirements align with pesticide applicator categories.
- Washington: Offers reciprocity for pesticide licenses, including aerial applicators, with states like Nebraska and Montana, as well as federal entities (e.g., Department of Defense, Bureau of Land Management). Applicants submit their current license and ID, paying an annual fee. Aerial applicators must meet Washington’s category-specific standards, though exact reciprocal states vary by license type.
- Oregon: Provides reciprocal licensing for aerial applicators, though specific states aren’t detailed broadly. Agreements typically align with neighboring states (e.g., Washington, Idaho) and require compliance with Oregon’s pesticide laws and fees.
- North Dakota: Allows non-resident aerial applicators from neighboring states (e.g., Minnesota, South Dakota, Montana) to use their home state certification under reciprocity. Requires an FAA Part 137 Agricultural Aircraft Operator Certificate and registration with the ND Aeronautics Commission. Fees are $200, and safety training is mandatory.
- Wisconsin: Offers reciprocal certification for commercial and private applicators from states like Minnesota and Illinois if equivalent categories exist. Aerial applicators must provide their home state license and meet Wisconsin’s renewal requirements without taking the state exam.
- Indiana: Has agreements with Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, and Kentucky for private applicators, extendable to aerial applicators. Non-residents apply with a reciprocity form and fees, leveraging their home state certification.
- Idaho: Issues reciprocal licenses ($120 fee) for aerial applicators, requiring an FAA pilot’s license copy and financial responsibility proof. Specific reciprocal states aren’t fully listed but often include neighbors like Washington and Montana.
- Utah: Accepts reciprocal licenses for commercial applicators, including aerial, from other states or federal agencies (e.g., BLM). Requires a current license copy, ID, and a $65 fee, with a letter of good standing from the home state.
Many states, especially in the Midwest and Plains regions, share reciprocity due to agricultural similarities and overlapping pesticide use standards. Common partners include Nebraska, Minnesota, Texas, and North Dakota, reflecting robust aerial application industries. However, states like California, Hawaii, and New York rarely participate in pesticide applicator reciprocity due to unique regulatory frameworks. Aerial-specific requirements (e.g., FAA licensing, safety training) often apply beyond general pesticide reciprocity.
For the most accurate list, check with your state’s Department of Agriculture or equivalent, as agreements evolve and may include category-specific nuances.
