The University of Wisconsin’s Private Pesticide Applicator Training and Certification Program has announced updates to its training and certification process for 2026. In-person training sessions and testing opportunities will be available in January, February, and March across Chippewa, Dunn, and Eau Claire counties.
All participants must purchase a training manual before attending any training or taking the certification exam. Manuals are available only through the UW Pesticide Applicator Training (PAT) state office in Madison and not at local Extension offices. Manuals cost $43.00 and include a unique PAT Number required for certification. Orders can be placed online at https://patstore.wisc.edu/secure/collection/private/17 . Delivery takes 5–10 days, with rush shipping available for an additional fee.
Training Options
Participants must choose one of the following training options after purchasing a manual:
- Online Video Training
This self-paced option covers the same material as in-person sessions and is available for the General Farm category. Participants have 14 days to complete the training once started. You will receive one completion certificate that must be shown to the test proctor to be graded at 50%. A completion certificate must be presented to the test proctor. You will need to take the Exam in person at a participating County Extension Office or online with Pearson VUE (see item 4.). You can register here and need to have purchased the manual: Registration is available at: https://uwmadison.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_d4DVfjmVBmP1ZRA - Live Training / Review Sessions
These one-day sessions provide a general review of the manual content and conclude with the certification exam. Registration is required and space is limited. Cost is $10.00 per session. All sessions begin at 9:00 AM:
- January 22 – Dunn County Government Center, Menomonie
- February 4 – CDR Farms, Bloomer
- February 26 – Extension Eau Claire County, Altoona
- March 17 – Chippewa Valley Dairy Supply, Stanley
Register at: https://patstore.wisc.edu/secure/collection/private/45
- Self-Study Option
Participants may study independently using the manual and schedule a test with their local Extension office. A passing score of 70% is required. - Online Testing with Pearson VUE
Pearson VUE offers online testing with immediate results and credentials issued within three business days. The cost is $45.00 per test. A passing score of 70% is required. Learn more at: https://patstore.wisc.edu/secure/collection/private/17
Certification Exam Details
- All exams are open book with a two-hour time limit.
- You must bring your manual to the exam.
- Exams at training sites are administered immediately following the session.
Local Contact Information
For questions contact your local Extension office:
- Chippewa County: 715-726-7950
- Dunn County: 715-232-1636
- Eau Claire County: 715-839-4712
For full details and updates, visit https://patstore.wisc.edu/secure/items/private
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