General Contractor License in New York

Quick Answer

New York requires general contractor contractors to hold a county/city only. A state exam is required. Application fees start at $200-$500. Licenses renew biennial.

License Requirements

License Type: County/City Only
Exam Required: Yes — state or trade exam required
Experience: 4+ years in general contractor
Insurance: $300,000 general liability
Bond: $10,000-$25,000

Fees

Application Fee: $200-$500
Exam Fee: $65-$150
License Fee: $150-$400
Renewal Fee: $150-$300 (Biennial)

Governing Body

New York Contractors Licensing Board
Official Application Portal ↗
Renewal: Every biennial
No formal reciprocity

How to Get a General Contractor License in New York

Step-by-step application process.

Verify you meet the experience requirement (4+ years in general contractor)
Obtain required insurance: $300,000 general liability
Obtain surety bond: $10,000-$25,000
Pass the required exam — schedule through the state exam provider
Submit application to New York Contractors Licensing Board
Pay applicable fees and await license issuance (typically 2–8 weeks)

Important Notes

New York requires state licensure for general contractors. License required for projects above the state threshold. Always verify current requirements with the state board.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to do general contractor work in New York?

Yes. New York requires general contractor contractors to hold a county/city only. New York requires state licensure for general contractors. License required for projects above the state threshold. Always verify current requirements with the state board.

How much does a general contractor license cost in New York?

In New York, the application fee is typically $200-$500. Exam fees are $65-$150. License fees are $150-$400. Renewal is $150-$300 per biennial cycle.

Is an exam required for a general contractor license in New York?

Yes, New York requires passing a licensing exam for general contractor contractors. The exam typically covers state laws and regulations plus trade-specific knowledge.

How do I renew my general contractor license in New York?

New York general contractor licenses renew biennial. Renewal fees are $150-$300. Many states require continuing education for renewal. Contact New York Contractors Licensing Board for current renewal requirements.

Does New York have reciprocity for general contractor licenses?

New York currently has limited formal reciprocity for general contractor licenses. Contact New York Contractors Licensing Board to discuss your situation — experience from other states may still be credited.

General Contractor Licensing in Neighboring States

Compare requirements in nearby states — useful if you work across state lines.