New York State Professional or Business License or Permit

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New York State agencies issue most of the licenses or certifications required to practice a profession. The New York State Department of State (DOS) maintains an online list of all professions requiring a license.

You can find out if your business needs a DOS license or permit to operate or expand by using the State License Center's website.

You can also learn about:

  • Licensing
  • Cost
  • Eligibility
  • State Agency that relates to your profession

If a license or permit is required, you can apply online and find the status of an application or renewal through the website. Phone assistance is also available.

Online

Find out if your business requires a New York State license or permit and learn how to apply.

Apply for a professional license.

Renew a State business license or permit.

By Phone

  • Agency: New York State Department of State
  • Division: Division of Licensing Services
  • Phone Number: (518) 474-4429
  • Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 9 AM - 5 PM

DOS licenses various occupations, including (but not limited to):

  • Apartment Information Vendors and Apartment Sharing Agents
  • Appearance Enhancement Business/Area Renter
  • Appraisal Management Company
  • Armored Car Services
  • Athlete Agent
  • Automobile Broker
  • Bail Enforcement Agent
  • Barber
  • Bedding Manufacturer & Refurbisher
  • Central Dispatch Facility
  • Children's Product Safety and Recall Act
  • Coin Processor
  • Cosmetology
  • Document Destruction Contractor
  • Esthetics
  • Health Club Services
  • Hearing Aid Dispensers
  • Home Inspectors
  • Manufactured Housing
  • Nail Specialty
  • Nail Specialty Trainee
  • Natural Hair Styling
  • Notaries Public
  • Pet Cemetery & Pet Crematorium
  • Private Investigator
  • Real Estate Appraiser/Broker/Salesperson
  • Security Guard
  • Security or Fire Alarm Installer
  • Telemarketer Business
  • Ticket Reseller
  • Watch, Guard or Patrol Agency
  • Waxing

Your local Workforce1 Career Center can also help you learn more about entrance requirements, local job prospects, and other resources for your new profession.

Search for Workforce1 Career Centers.

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