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New York Contract Licensing ‐ The Basic Requirements and Rules
If you want to work as a general contractor in the construction industry in New York,
you're chosen a wonderful path. However, regulations and requirements vary from
one state to the next, which can make the process a bit confusing. We've pulled
together all the information you need to get your general contractor license in New
York.
Is a General Contractor License Mandatory?
State licenses in New York are only required for crane operators and asbestos
workers. Other licenses are going to be acquired by the city. A license or permit from
the city is typically required for all general contractors.
Who Provides Contractor Licenses?
This varies based on what county and city you are located in. Make sure you check
the local rules before you start working in any area. Below is information for a few of
the larger areas in New York:
* Buffalo ‐ Contractor licenses are regulated by the Buffalo Department of
Economic Development through the Permit and Inspection Services Offices of
Licenses.
* Long Island ‐ General contractors must access licenses from the Nassau
County Office of Consumer Affairs.
* New York City ‐ Contractor licenses will be provided by the NYC Department
of Consumer Affairs.
* Westchester ‐ General contractors will be issued licenses by the Westchester
County Department of Consumer Protection.
Types of New York Contractor Licenses
Two different general contractor licenses are available in New York. These include
the following:
* Certified General Contractor License ‐ This can be used across the state for
jobs in any location.
* Registered General Contractor License ‐ This license is only for certain
jurisdictions and areas.
Requirements to Acquire a General Contractor License
While there are various requirements for a New York license, the following items are
typically required to qualify:
* Be 18 years of age or older.
* Pay a fee and pass a background check.
* Submit a typed, notarized, and signed registration form.
* Provide a notarized document with your name, address, social security
number, and share percentage of the company for all offices and
stockholders.
* Submit an EIN (employer identification number) from the IRS.
* Provide your last three bank account statements for the business with a
minimum balance of $25,000 or a letter from a bank showing this balance
over the last year.
* Obtain general liability insurance for $1,000,000 in coverage.
* Provide disability and workers' compensation insurance certificates.
* Show a New York photo ID, passport, or birth certificate.
* Give proof of your home address, such as a lease, deed, bank statement, or
utility bill.
* Submit proof of business address such as a lease, deed, bank statement, or
utility bill.
This is the process required in New York City, so it may be different for other cities
and counties in the state.
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