ACE Exam Resources & Study Material

The Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) exam is not an exam you can cram for. It tests for a wide body of knowledge, and preparation matters. ESA recommends a minimum of 40 hours of self-study, regardless of your experience level. 

These are the main recommended study materials for the exam as well as a number of additional resources that can help prepare applicants. 

Familiarity with information in these references, along with solid hands-on experience in the pest control industry, and participation in ongoing continuing education should adequately prepare prospective ACE candidates to take the certification exam.

Additional Resources

• Bennet, G., J. Owens, and R. Corrigan [eds.]. 1997. Truman's Scientific Guide to Pest Control Operations. 6th ed. Questex Media, Duluth, MN.
• Gold, R. E., and S. C. Jones [eds.]. 2000. Handbook of Household and Structural Insect Pests. Entomological Society of America, Annapolis, MD.
• Hedges, S. A. 1996. Field Guide for the Management of Structure-Infesting Flies. G.I.E. Publishing, Cleveland, OH.
• Hedges, S. A. 1998. Field Guide for the Management of Structure-Infesting Ants. G.I.E. Publishing, Cleveland, OH.
• Hedges, S. A., and M. S. Lacey. 1996. Field Guide for the Management of Structure-infesting Beetles. Vols. I (Hide and carpet beetles/ wood-boring beetles) and II (Stored product beetles/occasional and overwintering beetles). G.I.E. Publishing, Clevland, OH.
• Koehler, P. and Pereira, R. General Household Pest Control. University of Florida IFAS.
• Kramer, R. 1998. PCT Technician's Handbook. G.I.E. Publishing, Cleveland, OH.
• Mallis, A. 1997. (8th Edition) and 2004 (9th Edition) Mallis Handbook of Pest Control. G.I.E. Publishing, Cleveland, OH.
• Ware, G. W. 2000. The Pesticide Book. Thompson Publications, Fresno, California.