Exam Subject Matter
Licensed Tree Experts Examination - Knowledge of the following subject matter is tested during the written section of the examination.
- General tree knowledge and safety
- Tree physiology, including the functions of all parts of a tree and their interrelationships
- Proper tree planting procedures and theories
- Soil characteristics, including how factors such as fertilizer, lime, soil amendments, pH and soil organisms affect the health and appearance of trees
- General pesticide procedures and usage
- General tree health and maintenance, including proper methods of pruning, fertilizing, soil aerating, soil amending and pesticide applications
- Impact and remediation techniques to trees from construction activities or other man-made impacts to a planting location
- Insect and disease damage and control methods
- Abiotic (environmental) factors and impacts affecting trees, such as pollution, drought, etc
- Structural repair or preventative measures to trees, such as cabling, bracing, bark tracing and lightning protection
- ANSI Z133 for safety standards and ANSI A300 for practice standards
- Tree Pruning
- Tree Climbing and related equipment (saddles, ropes, snaps, carabiners)
- Tree Removal and Rigging
- Limbing and Bucking
- Chainsaw Safety and Operation
- Chipper Safety and Operation
- Aerial Lift Safety and Operation
- Stump Grinder Safety and Operation
- Electrical Hazard Awareness
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Knowledge of the following subject matter is tested during the field section of the examination.
- Tree identification (dendrology) including common and botanical names
- Insects and insect problems that affect trees and a recommended course of action. Recommendations can include both chemical and non-chemical procedures
- Disease and disease problems that affect trees and a recommended course of action. Recommendations can include both chemical and non-chemical procedures
- Abiotic (environmental) and cultural problems affecting trees and recommendations
- Structural problems of trees and recommendations
Licensed Tree Care Operator Examination - Knowledge of the following subject matter is tested during the written section of the examination.
- General tree knowledge and safety
- General tree health and maintenance, including proper methods of pruning
- Impact and remediation techniques to trees from construction activities or other man-made impacts to a planting location
- ANSI Z133 for safety standards and ANSI A300 for practice standards
- Tree Pruning
- Tree Climbing and related equipment (saddles, ropes, snaps, carabiners)
- Tree Removal and Rigging
- Limbing and Bucking
- Chainsaw Safety and Operation
- Chipper Safety and Operation
- Aerial Lift Safety and Operation
- Stump Grinder Safety and Operation
- Electrical Hazard Awareness
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
For recommended reading on the Licensed Tree Expert Examination, download this study guide.
For recommended reading on the Licensed Tree Care Operator Examination, download this study guide.