Job Training and Preparation

•  Occupations Licensed or Certified by New York State
•   Eligible Training Providers
  A broad and diverse selection of training offerings available throughout New York State to support the training needs of businesses and individuals.

What occupations are licensed or certified by New York State?

Why does the government regulate occupations?

What is the difference between licensing, certification, and registration?

Which New York State agencies license and/or certify occupations?

Disclaimer

Cities, towns, villages and counties also license occupations that New York State government does not license. Also, certain occupations are licensed by federal regulatory agencies. These include airplane pilot/flight instructor, licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA); maritime occupations, licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard; radio/TV broadcast operators, licensed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC); and securities sales representatives, licensed by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Fees stated and other information contained in this report are subject to change. Please contact the appropriate agency for the most current information.

Why does the government regulate occupations?

What is the difference between licensing, certification, and registration?

License
Licensing is the most restrictive method of regulation. It requires any person wishing to earn a living in a licensed occupation to obtain permission (license) from a specific government agency, designated by law to issue this license. To receive a license, the applicant usually completes the following requirements:

Certification
This regulatory method governs the use of certain occupational titles. In some instances, regulations do not legally restrict anyone from engaging in the occupation, but those who do not meet the requirements specified may not use the certified title. In other instances, the certification is required to do certain types of work. To obtain certification, the applicant must meet certain training, experience, and/or examination requirements that are similar to those required for a license, and apply to the appropriate public agency or private association or certification board for permission to use a given occupational title. A fee may be required.

Registration
Registration is the least restrictive method of regulation. Those wishing to engage in registered occupations must submit an application to be placed on an official roster maintained by the appropriate organization or agency. The requirements for registration are usually minimal. Individuals may be asked to produce documentation for qualification, character reference, and bonding. Registration can merely be an administrative or professional list of people who are already certified.

New York State Agencies and the Occupations They License