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State files updated Oct 27, 2026
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New York contractor licenses

NYC license lookup

New York contractor licenses are checked on the boards' own sites. Pick the board for the trade.

What should you check before hiring?

What to ask before you hire

  1. Get the license number in writing. The name on the license should match the name on your contract and invoice.
  2. Check the class covers the job. A license for one trade doesn't cover another. New York license classes
  3. Ask for a certificate of insurance sent to you by the insurance agent, not handed over by the contractor. How to read a COI
  4. Ask who will be on site. If a crew works on your property, ask for proof of workers' comp. An exemption means the contractor told the NYC it has no employees.
  5. Put it in a written contract: license number, price, start date and payment schedule. Check the license again on the day you sign.

If the license is lapsed

  1. Don't sign or pay a deposit until the NYC shows the license active again.
  2. Ask the contractor why. For a bond or insurance lapse, ask for proof that the new bond or policy was filed with the NYC, then check again.
  3. If work has started, hold further payments, keep the contract, receipts and photos, and file a complaint with the state board.
  4. Check another contractor. New York license lookup

Sources

  1. NYC Dept of Consumer and Worker Protection - Home Improvement Contractor license (nyc.gov)
  2. NYC Dept of Buildings (master plumber/electrician/oil burner) (nyc.gov)