State Guides · New York
New York Electrician License and Permits Guide 2026
New York has no statewide electrician license. See how NYC, Buffalo, Westchester, Suffolk and Nassau towns license electricians and when permits apply.
·5 min read
Free matching service · Updated Sep 29, 2026
Electricians in Schenectady, NY
Tell us what you need and we'll find the right local electrician for your project. We know 0 electricians serving Schenectady, NY.
Schenectady grew up as a General Electric company town and still has many early 1900s homes. Rewiring and service upgrades are routine in its older neighborhoods.
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Guides for New York
All New York guidesQuestions from New York homeowners
Does New York State license electricians?
No. New York has no statewide electrician license, so the rules depend on where you live. New York City licenses Master and Special Electricians through the Department of Buildings, the City of Buffalo issues master and journeyman electrician licenses, Westchester County licenses electricians through its Department of Consumer Protection, and Suffolk County issues Master Electrician licenses through its Department of Consumer Affairs.
Who licenses electricians in Nassau County?
Nassau County does not issue a countywide electrician license. The Towns of Hempstead, North Hempstead and Oyster Bay each have their own electrical licensing board, and a license from one town does not automatically carry over to another, so ask your town or village which license it requires.
How do I check an electrician's license in New York City?
Use the NYC Department of Buildings license search (BIS or DOB NOW). In New York City a Master Electrician license is needed to file for an electrical permit and to do electrical work for the public.
Which electrical code applies to my home?
Outside New York City, work follows the NYS Uniform Code. The 2025 Uniform Code took effect on December 31, 2025, and electrical work under building permits issued from that date must meet the 2023 National Electrical Code. New York City enforces its own Electrical Code through the Department of Buildings.
Does electrical work need an inspection if my town has no license rule?
Yes. Even where anyone may legally do electrical work, the work must be inspected by an electrical inspector your municipality recognizes. Many towns use approved third-party electrical inspection agencies, so ask your local building department which one to call.
What must a home improvement contract include in New York?
Under Article 36-A of the New York General Business Law, a home improvement contract must be in writing, and you may cancel it until midnight of the third business day after you sign. Payments made before the work is substantially complete must be kept in an escrow account, unless the contractor gives you a bond or similar guarantee instead.
Do I need to call 811 before digging for a generator line or outdoor circuit?
Yes. Call 811 at least two and no more than ten working days before digging. New York 811 covers New York City and Long Island and Dig Safely New York covers the rest of the state; by law, contractors and excavators must make the call.
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