DEC is offering exams for guiding in camping, fishing, hiking, hunting, whitewater rafting, canoeing or kayaking, and rock or ice climbing.
A guide must be at least 18 years of age. Guides offer services for hire, directing, instructing, or aiding others in a variety of recreational activities. DEC’s Special Licenses Unit administers licensing of outdoor guides. Applicants are not required to be New York state residents to receive a license.
To provide enhanced access to examinations, DEC offers licensed guide examinations online in 2023.
Dates and registration details are below:
May 12 - 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Registration must be received by May 10;
June 23 - 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Registration must be received by June 21;
July 7 - 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Registration must be received by July 5;
Sept. 15 - 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Registration must be received by Sept. 13; and
Oct. 13 - 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Registration must be received by Oct. 11.
To register, visit dec.ny.gov/permits/30969.html. Applicants will receive an email acknowledging registration and an additional one-time link for use to access the website on the date of the exam. Upon successful completion of the exam(s), applicants will receive information on applying for the appropriate guide license, including an application form. Do not send applications or fees prior to passing the examination(s).
An outline of exam content, a study guide, and additional information can be found on the DEC Licensed Guide Program website. The Fieldbook, a reference book published by the Boy Scouts of America, is also recommended and can be found at a local library or bookstore. A list of current New York State Licensed Guides is available online.
For questions or assistance, contact the Special Licenses Unit at NYS DEC Special Licenses Unit, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-4752; phone: 518-402-8985, fax: 518-402-8925; email SpecialLicenses@dec.ny.gov.
