New York Contractor & Trade License Requirements

New York does NOT have statewide licensing for general contractors, electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, or roofing contractors. Instead, licensing is handled at the city and county level — creating one of the most fragmented regulatory landscapes in the country. New York City has the most comprehensive system through the Department of Buildings (DOB) and Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP). Other cities like Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and Albany each have their own requirements. IMPORTANT: As of December 30, 2024, New York State requires all contractors and subcontractors on public work and certain private projects to register with the NYS Department of Labor (a new statewide registration, not a license). The NYC DOB transitioned all license applications to DOB NOW: Licensing as of February 23, 2026.