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General Contractor Licenses › New York

General Contractor License Cost in New York 2026: $200 Fees, $77K Salary

Getting a General Contractor license in New York costs $200 upfront. At state-adjusted salaries, that pays back in 0.1 months.

General Contractor License in New York — Key Numbers

$200
Upfront Cost
$77K
Median Salary (Licensed)
$100
Renewal (every 2 yrs)
0.1 mo
Payback Period

Salary data: BLS OEWS 2024 state estimates. Fees: state licensing board schedules.

General Contractor License Cost Breakdown — New York

Exam fee $0
Application fee $100
Initial license fee $100
Total upfront $200
Renewal fee (every 2 yrs) $100
CE hours required per cycle 20 hours
Salary without license (New York) $56,640/yr
Salary with license (New York) $76,700/yr
5-year net ROI $100K

Licensing body: New York Contractors Licensing Board. Verify current fees before applying — schedules change.

General Contractor License in New York — What to Know

New York requires state-level contractor licensing, which typically includes a trade exam, financial responsibility documentation, and proof of insurance. The $77K median for licensed contractors in New York reflects strong construction demand in the state's metros. Licensed GCs in New York can pull permits, take on unlimited-value projects, and hire subcontractors directly. The exam covers building codes, contract law, and business practices. Insurance and bonding requirements add to the ongoing cost beyond the license fee itself.

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Other License Costs in New York

Real Estate Agent → CPA → Registered Nurse →
← All states: General Contractor License Costs
All certifications in New York · Payback period by state
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