If you are a government or private property employee who maintains landscapes and plans to apply pesticides around occupied buildings (such as homes or offices), you need a pesticide license through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). With the Limited Lawn and Ornamental Pesticide License (LLO), you will be able to apply herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides on landscapes and turf around buildings owned by your employer.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Obtaining an LLO License

1. Study for the Exam
Purchase study manuals from the UF/IFAS Bookstore at 800-226-1764 or online at the provided links. You will need to study the 1.) CORE, which includes pesticide laws, safety, and labeling, as well as 2.) LLO principles.
• 1.) LLO study guide
• 2.) CORE study guide

2. Apply for an Exam Voucher and the LLO License
Apply for a voucher to take the exam. The license fee of $150 must be paid before taking the exam. If you pass the exam, the $150 covers your LLO pesticide license for four years. You must bring the voucher number with you to take the exam.

3. Select a Testing Date and Location
Select a Testing Date and Location. Testing online at any time is an option, but you must have the proper computer requirements, webcam, etc.

4. Attend a LLO Exam Review Session
– Contact your County Extension Office to find the in-person LLO exam review closest to your location.
– The LLO class reviews the fundamentals you will need to pass the LLO exam, but it does not replace studying the manuals. The pass rate for first-time LLO exam takers is around 50%. Increase your chances of passing by studying ahead of time.
– The 6-hour LLO exam review session is NOT required.

5. Renew Your License Annually
Renew Your License Annually
The LLO license costs $25.00 to renew every four years, plus you will need to attend 4 hours (2 CORE, 2 LLO) of approved Continuing Education (CEUs) classes offered by your local County Extension Office. After attending a CEU class, you will be provided a completion form. Place your completed CEU forms in a place where they can be found when it is time to renew. Be sure to renew your license by the four-year deadline.  

For further information, contact your local County Extension Office.

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