How Can I Earn an Arborist License?

<h2 id="section---WhatIsAnArborist">What Is an Arborist?</h2> <p>Arborists, also known as tree trimmers, remove, treat or preserve diseased or distressed trees, shrubs and other foliage. They do this to maintain healthy plants, as well as present a desirable appearance. They may also trim trees to clear areas surrounding powerlines, sidewalks or roads. There are a few specialties in the field, including diagnosing tree diseases or shaping ornamental plants. Arborists use a variety of tools, such as chain saws, stump grinders, chippers, lifts, ladders and more. The following chart provides an overview of what you need to know about entering this field. </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td><b>Education Required</b></td><td> High school diploma or equivalent</td></tr> <tr><td> <b>Training Required</b> </td><td> Available through state-provided materials, or educational materials provided by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA); work-study programs</td></tr> <tr><td> <b>Key Responsibilities</b> </td><td> Identifying plants and plant diseases; treating diseased and damaged plants; growing trees and other plants</td></tr> <tr><td> <b>Certification</b> </td><td> Passing a certification exam necessary in some states, or become nationally certified through ISA</td></tr> <tr><td> <b>Job Growth (2020-2030)</b> </td><td> 6% growth* (<i>tree trimmers and pruners</i>)</td></tr> <tr><td> <b>Mean Annual Salary (2020)</b> </td><td> $44,040* (<i>tree trimmers and pruners</i>)</td></tr> </table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i> </p> <h3 id="section---WhatDoINeedToObtainAnArboristLicense">What Do I Need to Obtain an Arborist License?</h3> <p>States that regulate the profession of an arborist vary the qualifications to obtain licensure. Some states have stricter guidelines than others, requiring testing and education before you can qualify for a license. For example, if you provide services to the public, you might need a commercial or professional arborist license that often requires you pass a state examination. Additionally, some states require you earn a separate license if you work near power lines. </p> <p>You'll be tested on your knowledge of pesticide safety, botanical diseases, plant identification and applicable state laws. In some states, you can substitute the state exam with national certification through the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). </p> <h3 id="section---HowDoIPrepareForAStateLicensingTest">How Do I Prepare for a State Licensing Test?</h3> <p>Some states provide study materials that you can use to prepare for the licensing examination. Others recommend using ISA resources and educational materials as preparation, though you should also ensure you're familiar with specific state regulations and statutes. The ISA offers online classes, recorded videos, practice tests and professional publications in a variety of arboricultural topics. You can also communicate with other arborists through an online forum on the ISA website. </p> <p>You could earn an undergraduate or graduate degree in arboriculture, horticulture, forestry, botany or a related field. These programs teach you how to identify, cultivate and treat several types of trees and plants. You could participate in an internship through your degree program or become an arborist apprentice through state agencies, community groups or nonprofit organizations. These work-study programs allow you to work under the supervision of a licensed arborist to gain the skills, knowledge and experience you need to be able to pass the licensing test. </p> <h3 id="section---HowDoIBecomeCertifiedByTheISA">How Do I Become Certified By the ISA?</h3> <p>To become an ISA-certified arborist, you must have at least three years' experience working full time in arboriculture. Earning a degree in arboriculture decreases the experience requirement; a 2-year degree only requires two years' exposure to the field, and you only need one year with a bachelor's degree. You might have to supply references if you are self-employed. You can choose to take a written or computer-based test, and you must score at least a 72% to pass. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatAreSomeRelatedAlternativeCareers">What Are Some Related Alternative Careers?</h3> <p>A few related careers that only require a high school diploma or equivalent include those of logging workers and forest and conservation workers. Logging workers specialize in harvesting forests for timber. Forest and conservation workers protect and improve the quality of forests. Landscape architects are also similar, but the profession requires a bachelor's degree and licensure. These professionals design outdoor spaces, such as parks or similar outdoor community spaces.</p>