Home Improvement Contractor Training - 10 Hour Online Class

Queens Economic Development Corporation is partnering with Astorian to provide a two-day 10-hour online training class. The class prepares the participants for the NYC home improvement contractor licensing examination and helps participants to put together their license application. The class will cover the following topics:

- Home improvement business law and insurance
- Duties and responsibilities of a contractor
- Content and cancellation of contracts
- Advertising and selling practices: How to give a quote, estimation and capital improvement
- General industry knowledge.
- Overview of how to apply and submit the license online


Upcoming class dates: October 3rd and 4th from 9am - 2pm

Tuition: $199


Study Materials: QEDC will provide the study guide, practice quizzes and additional study materials for the class. You will receive an email with the link to access all study materials the week of the class. You will receive a Zoom link too.

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FAQ Section

I am already licensed by Department of Buildings. Are you sure I still need a license from Department of Consumer Affairs to perform home improvement work?

Yes, you need home improvement contractor license from Department of Consumer Affairs to perform home improvement work.

How do I get a DCA home improvement contractor license?

Applicants are required to submit a package of 11 application forms to the DCA and pass a licensing examination that tests their knowledge of home improvement business law.



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 800 contractors have participated in our Home Improvement Contractor Training, and so far everyone who has taken the licensing exam has passed.



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.


All Costs:

Examination Fee $50

Fingerprints & Processing Fee $75

Licensing Fee (2 Years) $100

DCA Trust Bond (2 Years) $200

Total $425

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. 

Application details:

As of March 16, 2020, NYC DCA only accepts online application filing. After you have already applied for a license online, you have the option of setting up an appointment to visit the DCA Licensing Center at 42 Broadway to take the exam and get the fingerprints or you can get your fingerprints taken at One Police Plaza.

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Online Application Process:

See how to apply online here

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