Home Improvement Contractor Training
Home improvement contractor training is a 3-session (May 10, 16, and 17 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM) course that both prepares participants for the NYC home improvement contractor licensing examination and helps participants put their license applications together. Cost of tuition is $300 ($350 if you pay at the door).
Disclaimer
Please note that this class is only for getting licensed. It does not guarantee any increase in revenue or employment. This class does not cover the technical aspects of being a contractor; it is geared entirely to getting people to pass the licensing examination.
All people who take the class are expected to sit for the licensing exam and start a contracting business. Please note that the license costs $438 and registering a business costs between $120 and $210.
Home Improvement Contractor Training FAQs
Do I need a home improvement contractor license?
Anyone performing home improvement services in NYC is required to be licensed by the Department of Consumer Affairs. Homeowners doing work on their own homes do not need to be licensed.
I thought I needed a Department of Buildings license to do this kind of work. Are you sure I need a Department of Consumer Affairs home improvement contractor license?
Yes. Anyone performing home improvement services in NYC is required to have a DCA home improvement contractor license—this even includes contractors licensed by the Department of Buildings.
I am not good at taking exams. Is the licensing exam very difficult?
The exam consists of 30 multiple choice questions that cover both legal issues and general industry and business knowledge. Many contractors have decades of practical hands on experience but little knowledge of these areas. The training is therefore specifically designed to help contractors prepare for this licensing exam. With a little bit of preparation anyone can pass.
You say anyone can pass. How are you so sure?
To date more than 250 contractors have participated in our Home Improvement Contractor Training with over 200 getting licensed.
How much does it cost to take the exam and get a contractor license?
There is both a licensing and an exam fee. The licensing cost varies between $325 and $425 depending upon the time of year you apply. The exam fee is $50. Participants are allowed two attempts at the exam. If additional tries are required, it is $50 for every two attempts.
I don't speak English. Is the exam offered in other languages?
Yes. The DCA licensing exam is now offered in English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, and Bengali. Home Improvement Contractor Training is currently offered in English, Spanish, and Chinese.
Can anyone participate and get their contractor license?
Applicants must have authority to work in the United States. Even if you are here legally, without authority to work in the U.S. you may not apply for a home improvement contractor license.
Can I apply for a contractor license in my own name, or does it have to be in the name of a business?
Both individuals and businesses are recognized as home improvement contractors. Businesses of course must be registered, but individuals must also register as sole proprietors.
Do I need to have insurance, such as liability, workers' compensation or disability insurance, to get licensed?
It depends upon the situation, but not everyone is required to be insured.
Any additional questions regarding to the Home Improvement Contractor Training course, please contact Jeff Fan at (718) 263-0546 or send an e-mail to sliu@queensny.org