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Landscapers

Certification, Licensing, and Special Requirements

Certification or Licensing

Licensing and certification differ by state and vary according to specific job responsibilities. For example, in most states landscapers and grounds managers need a certificate to spray insecticides or other chemicals. Landscape contractors must be certified in some states.

Several professional associations offer certification programs for workers in the field. The National Association of Landscape Professionals offers the landscape industry certified technician certification credential to candidates who complete coursework and pass an examination. The certification program is available in both English and Spanish. The Professional Grounds Management Society offers the certified grounds manager and certified grounds technician credentials. Landscapers who specialize in the care of golf courses and sports fields can receive certification from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) or the Sports Field Management Association. The International Society of Arboriculture also provides certification.

Contractors and other self-employed people may also need a license to operate their businesses.

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