The Aerial General Standards Core Exam is required to become a licensed Pesticide Applicator or Operator in the State of Illinois to perform aerial pesticide applications, including the use of drones.

This is a closed-book exam administered by the Illinois Department of Agriculture. It consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and requires a minimum passing score of 70%. Applicants seeking an applicator license must pass the Aerial General Standards Exam before taking the category exam.

Exam Time Limit: 3 hours

Exam Available: Oct. 1, 2026 - Aug. 31, 2027

Exam Fee: $12.6 per attempt proctor fee

To sign up for exams, please see Commercial Exam Enrollment. Questions about online exams? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.