Licensing Guides
State Contractor License: How to Become a General Contractor in New York
Contractor, NY
Table of Contents
Why Do You Need a Contractor License in New York?
How Can You Get a Contractor License in New York?
Types of General Contractor Licenses in New York
What Are the Requirements of a New York Contractor License?
How Long Does It Take to Get a Contractor License in New York?
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Contractor License in New York?
New York Contractor License Training Programs and Schools
Does New York Reciprocate Contractor Licenses?
Do I Need to Renew my Contractor License in New York?
Are There Any Penalties for Contracting Without a License in New York?
We all need a place to live and work, and those buildings require upkeep and repair. They’re often the biggest investments we make in our lives, and keeping them in good condition is essential. We count on professionals to know how to fix damage to or wear and tear on our homes and businesses. General contractors are typically the experts we rely on to help us with these repairs, and we need these men and women to know what they’re doing.
Many states require contractors to be licensed. Others simply require solid insurance to back up the essential work they perform. There are 520,900 construction managers and 1,599,800 construction laborers and helpers nationwide, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). New York employs 7,240 managers and 49,080 laborers and helpers. The national number for managers is projected to grow 9% from 2023 to 2033 and 8% for laborers and helpers. In New York, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate for laborers is at 2%, and for managers it’s at 3%. If you’re thinking about becoming a contractor or you want a job in the field, you need to know the requirements in your state or local jurisdiction. This guide will help you determine what you need before you get started.
Why Do You Need a Contractor License in New York?
In New York, general contractors are licensed at the local level, not the state level. Since general contractors must be licensed by the cities or counties where they perform work, contractor license requirements vary in each location.
In New York City, the type of work determines which type of contractor’s license you need. Those building new one-, two-, or three-family homes must register with the New York City Department of Buildings as a general contractor. Those constructing all other types of buildings must obtain a Safety Registration Number with a Construction Endorsement, or register as a general contractor.
Contractors altering, repairing, or remodeling one-, two-, three-, or four-family homes, condos, or co-ops must have a Home Improvement Contractor license from the New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP), formerly the Department of Consumer Affairs.
In Buffalo, those who perform construction work or own a home-improvement business must have a City of Buffalo Contractor License.
Specific types of construction work, such as crane operators, asbestos abatement work, and home inspection services require a state certificate or license, according to New York State construction licensing information.
How Can You Get a Contractor License in New York?
To get a contractor license in New York, you’ll follow the requirements of the city or county where you plan to obtain licensing. We’ll cover how to get a contractor license in some of the largest New York municipalities.
If you’re seeking to register as a general contractor in New York City, you’ll follow the requirements of the NYC Department of Buildings. This includes getting several forms notarized, showing proof of insurance, showing proof of a $25,000 ending balance from business bank statements, and paying a registration fee.
If you’re repairing or remodeling residences and seek a Home Improvement Contractor License, you’ll follow the requirements of the NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection. This includes submitting several documents, such as proof of business, enrolling in a trust fund or obtaining a surety bond, and passing a home-improvement exam.
Contractors seeking a general contractor license in Buffalo will follow city requirements. This includes obtaining general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance, if applicable. The city requires contractors to submit additional documentation if they construct new homes.
Types of General Contractor Licenses in New York
Since New York state does not issue general contractor licenses, license types vary in each locality.
New York City contractor classifications include:
General Contractor Registration: Contractors who build one-, two-, and three-family homes must register with the NYC Department of Buildings to obtain new building permits.
Home Improvement Contractor License: Contractors who construct, repair, remodel, or perform other home improvement work to any residential land or building must hold this license from the NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection.
New York City licenses other skilled trades in the construction industry, including:
Electrician
Elevator agency director and inspector
High-pressure boiler operating engineer
Hoisting machine operator
Master plumber and master fire suppression piping contractor
Oil burner equipment installer
Rigger
Sign hanger
Site safety professional
Welder
In addition, businesses performing certain activities may need to obtain a safety registration number and an insurance tracking number.
Buffalo contractor license classifications include the following, for businesses showing proof of workers’ compensation insurance:
General Contractor: For the construction of new residential and commercial structures without limitations, in addition to performing repairs, remodeling, alterations, conversions or modernizations. This also includes infrastructures and interior/exterior improvements, repairs, installations, or replacements.
New Housing Contractor: For the construction of new residential and commercial structures with a maximum of three stories. This includes repairs, remodeling, alterations, conversions, or modernizations of residential and commercial structures, including interior and exterior improvements, repairs, installations, or replacements.
Light Commercial Contractor: For repairs, remodeling, alterations, conversions, or modernization of commercial property. This includes constructing commercial additions and accessory structures no more than three stories high, and includes all interior and exterior improvements, repairs, installations, or replacements. Residential work is included only when designated on the license.
Subcontractor: For subcontractors performing residential or commercial construction work for a prime contractor.
Specialty Contractor: For asbestos abatement, lead abatement, and installation of water-based or chemical-based fire suppression systems on residential, commercial, or mixed structures.
Demolition: For demolition work.
License classifications for “one-man operations” that cannot show proof of workers’ compensation insurance:
Handyman Contractor: For those performing maintenance and minor repairs on residential structures. This includes all minor interior and exterior improvements, repairs, installations, or replacements. This does not include roofing, siding, large renovations, or any other construction projects which the department or industry standards dictate should be completed by two or more people.
Construction Manager: For those contracting the oversight and direction of construction elements of a building project, including the hiring and scheduling of licensed contractors to perform construction.
Getting a general contractor license
The bottom line is that many cities and counties in the state of New York require licenses to perform new commercial or residential construction, additions, remodeling, repair, or improvements. Read on to find out how to get a general contractor license in New York City and Buffalo.
New York City
To get your General Contractor License in New York City, follow these steps.
PASS BACKGROUND EXAMINATION: Pay a $330 background investigation fee and pass a background check.
COMPLETE CONTRACTOR REGISTRATION FORM: Complete a notarized general contractor registration form.
SIGN AUTHORIZATION FOR SERVICE OF PROCESS: Complete a notarized authorization for service of process by agent or email.
COMPLETE CHILD SUPPORT CERTIFICATION FORM: Complete a child support certification form stating you are not under a court or administrative order to pay child support, or you are under obligation to pay child support.
SIGN SUPPLEMENTAL INVESTIGATION QUESTIONNAIRE: Complete a notarized supplemental investigation questionnaire showing you meet general contractor requirements.
LIST PARTNERS AND STAKEHOLDERS: Provide a notarized letter on company letterhead listing the name, home address, home phone number, Social Security number, and percent of ownership for all corporate officers, partners, and stakeholders.
PROVIDE BANK STATEMENTS: Show a $25,000 ending balance from the last three consecutive business bank statements or provide a notarized letter from your company’s bank.
SHOW PROOF OF INSURANCE: Show an original general liability insurance certificate with a $1 million minimum policy, workers’ compensation insurance certificate, and disability insurance certificate.
SHOW PROOF OF RESIDENCE AND BUSINESS: Show proof of the primary principal’s home residence through a utility bill, bank statement, deed or lease, or a typed notarized letter and bill from the person you live with. Show proof of business address through a utility bill, bank statement, deed, or lease.
PROVIDE BUSINESS DOCUMENTATION: Show copies of business documentation, which varies depending on business structure.
Corporations show:
A certified copy of the Certificate of Incorporation from the New York State Department of State.
A copy of the filing receipt or Certificate of Good Standing.
A copy of minutes stating the names of the corporation’s elected officers, and the time, date, and location of the meeting.
LLCs show:
A certified copy of the articles of organization from the New York State Department of State.
A copy of the filing receipt or Certificate of Good Standing.
A copy of minutes stating the names of the LLC’s elected officers, and the time, date, and location of the meeting.
Partnerships show:
A Certificate of Partnership stating all present officers and their percentage of ownership.
Sole proprietors show:
A copy of the business certificate from the county clerk.
APPLY FOR LICENSE: Applicants must create an account and submit license applications through an online portal. For information about setting up an online account, visit this page. Applicants must either scan or take photos of documents before uploading them. The NYC Department of Buildings provides a step-by-step user guide about the online application process.
PAY REGISTRATION FEE: General contractor registration costs $300.
OBTAIN REGISTRATION: Once the applicant receives an email notifying their license is approved, they will need to schedule an in-person appointment. At the appointment, contractors will get their photo taken and receive a license card. Contractors go to Manhattan for their appointment:
NYC Department of Buildings ATTN: Licensing & Exams Unit 280 Broadway, 1st Floor New York, NY 10007
For more information about contractor licenses, visit the NYC Department of Buildings FAQ page.
City of Buffalo
The City of Buffalo requires licenses for many types of businesses. Here’s how you go about getting your General Contractor License in Buffalo.
REGISTER BUSINESS: Register your business with the Erie County Clerk’s Office.
SHOW PROOF OF BUSINESS NAME: Submit a certificate of registration to do business under an assumed name, a certificate of registration of partnership to do business under an assumed name, or a corporate or LLC filing receipt.
SHOW PROOF OF INSURANCE: General contractors must obtain a minimum of $2 million aggregate general liability insurance coverage, with the City of Buffalo Office of Licenses listed as the certificate holder. Contractors must meet state workers’ compensation insurance coverage requirements or submit an exemption.
PROVIDE RRP CERTIFICATION: Submit a copy of the EPA’s renovation, repair, and painting program (RRP) certification, if applicable to the business.
SUBMIT HOME-IMPROVEMENT CONTRACT: Contractors performing work on residences must use a City of Buffalo Home Improvement Contract. Contractors must submit a blank, five-part contract listing specific provisions laid out in the application.
SUBMIT APPLICATION: Print the application PDF. Mail notarized applications with required documentation to: Buffalo City Hall, Office of Licenses, 65 Niagara Sq., Room 301, Buffalo, NY 14202. The Construction and Home Improvement Advisory Board will review the application and will contact the applicant with any questions.
PAY APPLICATION FEE: Pay the $900 general contractor license fee.
Getting a residential or specialty license
Home-improvement contractors must be licensed in New York City, Nassau County, Putnam County, Rockland County, Suffolk County, and Westchester County, according to the New York State Attorney General’s Office.
In New York City, contractors performing residential work need to hold a Home Improvement Contractor License from the NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection. Here’s how you go about getting your Home Improvement License in New York City.
OBTAIN BUSINESS CERTIFICATE: Obtain the appropriate business certificate based on the legal structure of your business. The DCWP does not require this as part of the application process but may request the document.
PROVIDE SALES TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: Provide your sales tax identification number or application confirmation number. To apply for a Certificate of Authority in order to collect sales tax, visit businessexpress.ny.gov.
SHOW PROOF OF BUSINESS ADDRESS: Show proof of business address by submitting one of the following documents: a utility bill dated within the last 90 days, a current lease or deed, a current rent or mortgage bill, an insurance document or insurance bill, correspondence from a government agency, or an active license, permit, or certificate issued by a governmental agency.
SHOW PROOF OF HOME ADDRESS: Show proof of home address by submitting one of the following documents: a utility bill dated within the last 90 days, a current lease or deed, a current rent or mortgage bill, an insurance document or insurance bill, correspondence from a government agency, an active license, permit, or certificate issued by a governmental agency, college or school correspondence, a driver's license, or municipal ID card.
OBTAIN WORKERS’ COMPENSATION INSURANCE: Show an insurance certificate for workers’ compensation insurance from a private insurance carrier or the New York State Insurance Fund Office naming the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection as the certificate holder. Include the Department’s address: 42 Broadway, New York, NY 10004. If claiming an exemption, contractors must show a Certificate of Attestation of Exemption from the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board.
SHOW PROOF OF EPA CERTIFICATION: Show a copy of the EPA RRP certification and EPA Lead-Based Paint Activities certification, or sign a Home Improvement Contractor affirmation form indicating the EPA certifications are not required for the work you will perform.
COMPLETE TRUST FUND ENROLLMENT FORM: If you plan to enroll in the DCWP Trust Fund, complete the trust fund enrollment form and pay the $200 fee. If you do not enroll, you must submit a copy of a $20,000 surety bond. The copy of the bond must name the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection as the certificate holder. You must also submit a copy of the bond receipt showing the bond was paid in full and does not expire before the end of the licensing period.
SUBMIT CONTRACTUAL COMPLIANCE AGREEMENT: Sign the HIC contractual compliance agreement, stating you will comply with state laws when entering into home improvement contracts with homeowners.
PASS HOME-IMPROVEMENT EXAM: One person, either a sole proprietor, general partner, corporate officer, principal, director, member, or shareholder owning 10% or more of company stock, must schedule an appointment with ExamBuilder to take a home improvement exam. Applicants cannot schedule the exam until DCWP has received and processed required documents and payments. Once DCWP has processed your application, it takes 24 hours for your information to appear in ExamBuilder’s system. At this point, applicants may schedule their exam. Applicants have 60 days to take and pass the exam from the time the information appears in ExamBuilder’s system. For more information, read the exam portion of the HIC license checklist, visit the department’s exam FAQ page, or download a home improvement examination guide.
COMPLETE FINGERPRINTING: All sole proprietors, general partners, corporate officers, principals, directors, members, and shareholders owning more than 10% of company stock must schedule an appointment with IdentoGO for fingerprinting and pay the required fee.
APPLY FOR LICENSE: Create an account and apply online through the DCWP online portal. You can also download the license application form to submit the application in person. To submit in person, schedule an appointment with the DCWP Licensing Center or NYC Small Business Support Center. Schedule an appointment by emailing LicensingAppointments@dcwp.nyc.gov or by calling (212) 436-0441 from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday.
PAY LICENSE FEE: Pay the licensing fee, which varies from $25 to $100, depending on the time of year you apply.
All home improvement contractors, no matter where they work in New York, must follow New York State law in regards to home improvement contract requirements.
In Buffalo, both residential and commercial contractors fill out the same application. Residential contractors must use a City of Buffalo Home Improvement Contract and submit a blank, five-part contract as part of their application.
For more information about specialty licenses, you can also consult our guides to getting your HVAC license, plumbing license, or electrician license in New York.
What Are the Requirements of a New York Contractor License?
The requirements for licensure as a contractor in New York are all intended to demonstrate that an individual who will be serving the public is properly prepared to do the job right. To that end, there are age, knowledge and financial prerequisites. These are the requirements for a General Contractor License in New York City.
Be at least 18 years old.
Be able to read and write the English language.
Have good moral character.
Have a Social Security card.
Have current photo identification, such as a driver’s license, passport, or Green Card.
Show proof of an Employer Identification Number or Federal Tax Identification Number.
Pass a background investigation.
Complete the notarized general contractor registration form.
Complete an authorization for service of process by agent or email.
Complete a child support certification form.
Sign a notarized supplemental investigation questionnaire.
Show proof of home residence.
Show proof of business address.
Show proof of an ending balance of $25,000 in business bank statements.
Show proof of a minimum of a $1 million general liability insurance policy.
Show proof of meeting workers’ compensation insurance requirements.
If a corporation, show a certified copy of the Certificate of Incorporation from the New York State Department of State, a copy of the filing receipt or Certificate of Good Standing, and a copy of minutes stating the names of the corporation’s elected officers, and the time, date, and location of the meeting.
If an LLC, show a copy of the filing receipt or Certificate of Good Standing, a certified copy of the articles of organization from the New York State Department of State, and a copy of minutes stating the names of the LLC’s elected officers, and the time, date, and location of the meeting.
If a partnership, show a Certificate of Partnership stating all present officers and their percentage of ownership.
For individuals with a business name (sole proprietors), show a copy of the business certificate from the county clerk.
Apply online for contractor registration.
Pay the application fee.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Contractor License in New York?
It takes about 15 business days to receive your general contractor license in New York City once the NYC Department of Buildings deems a contractor application as qualified. It takes the DCWP about two weeks to review Home Improvement Contractor License applications. Applicants may also check the status of their license application online.
What Business Owners Need to Know
Being efficient in the contracting world, no matter where you are in your licensing journey, takes work. ServiceTitan’s cloud-based, all-in-one contracting software gives workers and business owners in residential field service, commercial contracting, or new construction the technology they need to do the work efficiently, and the data they need to do it effectively.
ServiceTitan features:
SMS communications that keep customers informed about the technician’s visit.
Location-specific service history, including recorded calls, accessible from the mobile app.
Required forms that ensure every job is done right, driving consistency.
The ability to build multi-option proposals with photos, on-site, in minutes.
Sales presentations that make conversations with customers easier and drive the average ticket.
Mobile payment acceptance, eliminating lost checks and increasing cash flow.
To learn more, schedule a demo with a product expert today.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Contractor License in New York?
The amount it costs to get a contractor license depends on the license and the city where you’re applying. A General Contractor License in New York City costs $300. A Home Improvement Contractor License in New York City costs between $25-$100 depending on the time of the year you apply. A General Contractor License in Buffalo costs $900.
New York Contractor License Training Programs and Schools
There are no specific educational or course requirements to get a contractor license in New York, although license requirements vary by locality. However, many training programs throughout the state can help you prepare for a career in construction.
If you choose to start your career path at a college or university, you can pursue a degree in construction management or construction engineering. There are many higher education options throughout the Empire State offering these types of programs.
The following schools offer Construction Management or Construction Engineering Bachelor of Science degrees.
The State University of New York (SUNY) system provides many locations throughout the state to pursue a degree or diploma in the areas of construction and the trades.
If you don’t attend any formal schooling or training, but want to learn on the job, you may want to consider an apprenticeship. The New York State Department of Labor lists apprenticeship information and opportunities throughout the state.
Other resources for finding New York apprenticeships in the skilled trades include:
Through an apprenticeship, you work, accumulate necessary experience, and can earn money all at the same time. The length of time to complete an apprenticeship depends on the trade and program.
The #1 newsletter for the trades.
Does New York Reciprocate Contractor Licenses?
No, since contractors are licensed at the local level, New York does not have reciprocal agreements with other states. New York City does not have reciprocal agreements for general contractor licenses, so contractors must obtain a city license. Check with each locality where you plan to work to ensure you meet licensing requirements.
Do I Need to Renew my Contractor License in New York?
Yes, contractor licenses need to be renewed in most New York cities. In New York City, general contractors licenses must be renewed every three years. Contractors must submit renewal online along with supporting documentation. It costs $240 to renew your license. To avoid a late fee, renewal applications must be submitted 30 to 60 days before the expiration date on the license card. Late renewals include an additional $50 fee.
New York City Home Improvement Contractor Licenses must be renewed every two years. Contractors may renew online, by mail, or in person. Contractors must submit the renewal application and documents at least 15 days before their license expires. Renewal fee is $100.
In the city of Buffalo, contractor licenses must be renewed every year. Cost is $900.
Are There Any Penalties for Contracting Without a License in New York?
Yes, contractors who work without a license face penalties in New York.
It’s unlawful for anyone without a license to engage in business or an activity requiring a license, and those who do are subject to a fine, imprisonment, or both, according to New York City code. In addition, contractors who violate the state’s Home Improvement Contract Law face $100 in civil fines, and $250-$2,500 in fines for violating provisions of the law relating to the protection of a customer’s payments, according to the New York State Attorney General’s Office.
In Buffalo, contractors conducting a home improvement business or doing construction work in the city without a license are guilty of an unclassified misdemeanor and may be punished by a fine of not more than $1,000, by imprisonment for not more than 60 days, or both, according to city code.
National Certifications
Other certifications can help you demonstrate your proficiency to potential employers and clients. There are many professional organizations that offer certification. These certifications are not required but can add to your marketability and therefore increase your opportunity to make more money.
Some of the top construction certifications are:
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Safety Certificate
Construction Management Association of America Certified Construction Manager (CCM)
National Association of Safety Professionals (NASP) Certified Safety Manager (CSM) certification
National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER)
Continuing Education
New York City does not have continuing education requirements for general contractor licensing, but the city requires specific supervisors and workers in the construction industry to complete safety training. The NYC Department of Buildings lists more information about Site Safety Training on its SST FAQ page.
Although there aren’t continuing education requirements, you will want to stay informed about emerging technology in the industry. There are many ways to keep yourself current in regard to the technology put to use in construction, roofing, energy and environmental designs, efficiency standards, and more. For example, distributors want you to know about their company’s latest offerings and will often hold training sessions about new and changing equipment and parts. Another option to stay in the know is continuing education courses with the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC).
Resources
You can stay up to date on contracting industry news several ways:
Check top blogs, including ServiceTitan’s blog.
Read about the latest industry trends, and discover ideas on how to grow your business.
Listen to top podcasts like ServiceTitan’s “Toolbox for the Trades” podcast.
ServiceTitan is a comprehensive business software solution built specifically to help service companies streamline their operations, boost revenue, and achieve growth. Our award-winning, cloud-based platform is trusted by more than 100,000 contractors across the country.
Ready to learn more about what ServiceTitan can do for your business? Contact our team to schedule a demo today.
