Weekly / Dates/Time
November 2 - 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM
November 9 - 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM
November 16 -12:30 PM – 2:30 PM, please note the last session is 2 hours.
Days
Mondays
Class Summary
The PCA Test Prep course is designed to help Napa County farmworkers prepare for the California Department of Pesticide Regulation’s licensing exam—an important credential that opens doors to greater responsibility and career advancement in vineyard operations.
To help prepare for the test, the Napa Valley Farmworker Foundation offers guided study sessions in Spanish designed to help participants take the exam for the first time or maintain their certification.
This is a comprehensive, 3-day course. Each day builds upon the others.
Topics include:
Reading and understanding pesticide labels
Introduction to Integrated Pest Management
Pesticide types and uses
Laws and regulations
Environmental hazards
Human hazards
Equipment and calibration
Personal protective equipment and personal safety
Safe pesticide use
Day 1 & 2
Hosted by AgSafe
3-hour topic presentations
Practical tips for studying and taking the test
Day 3
Hosted by the Napa County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office
2-hour review of topics
Information about when and where to take the test
PAC Exam
The exam is administered at the Napa County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and is offered in English and Spanish.
Changes to PAC Regulation: Under California regulations 3-CCR § 6582, all Private Applicator Certificates issued before January 1, 2024, are subject to new requirements: upon expiration, they cannot be renewed under the old rules. Holders must now meet the current standard—and pass the latest exam.
Per 3-CCR § 6580, new applicants for PAC must pass the new examination with a score of 70% or higher. The certificate is valid for three years. Renewal is available through six hours of continuing education or by re-examination.
Certified Private Applicators may possess, use, or supervise the use of pesticides classified as “restricted use pesticides.” They are also qualified to train applicators and fieldworkers who work in fields treated with pesticides.
Instructor
Angelina Ceja- AgSafe
Andres Napolitano, Napa County Ag Comissioner’s OFfice
Impact
A state-issued certification shows a commitment to safety, compliance, and professional growth.
Holding a PAC license qualifies a person to apply restricted-use pesticides and demonstrates specialized knowledge and responsibility.
PAC holders may be trusted to train or oversee others, enhancing their leadership position within the vineyard team.