To become a crop duster, obtain a commercial pilot’s license, an ag-pilot license, and accumulate flying hours. A medical certificate and insurance are also necessary. Mentoring or apprenticeship programs are available.
There are several steps required to become a crop duster, although there are typically no prerequisites other than an attestation of health. The first step is usually to obtain a commercial pilot’s license, as this is often required before you can legally accept monetary compensation for your services. You may also need to obtain an ag-pilot license from your state or other local government, usually by taking and passing a written test. Many areas also have mentoring or apprenticeship programs that allow you to work with an experienced ag pilot for up to a year before becoming a duster.
The specific path you take to become a Duster will vary based on your local area and flying experience. If you already have a pilot’s license, it will be much easier for you to become a duster. If not, you will first need to obtain that license, and then obtain a commercial license and any necessary ratings to fly instruments or operate certain classes of airplanes. The period of instruction usually includes classroom education in addition to practical experience, and you need to accumulate a large number of flying hours before you can obtain a commercial pilot’s license.
A big factor that usually comes into play when trying to get a commercial pilot’s license is a doctor’s note. There are several different types of medical certificates, and what you need to qualify will normally be dictated by the type of license you want to obtain. If you are not in good health or have any serious medical conditions, you may have difficulty obtaining your license.
After obtaining a commercial pilot license, the next step in becoming a duster is to obtain an ag pilot license. This credential is typically issued by a country’s department of food or agriculture and usually requires you to pass a written exam. In some cases, you may be able to find work as a duster after you have both your licenses and a medical certificate, although you may also need to participate in a mentorship or apprenticeship program.
Another factor to consider when trying to become a mop is insurance. In many cases, you will need to obtain it before starting work, and ag-pilot insurance can be quite expensive. Because some insurance companies require a significant number of field-work hours before issuing a policy, you may need to start as a service technician, chemical mixer, or other related position before dusting crops.
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