The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has announced the 2026 schedule for its Licensed Guide examinations, offering prospective guides multiple opportunities throughout the year to qualify for licensure.
Licensed guides are permitted to provide services for hire that include directing, instructing or assisting others in activities such as camping, fishing, hiking, hunting, whitewater rafting, canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing and ice climbing. In an effort to expand access, the department will again offer the examinations online and at no cost.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old. New York residency is not required. All exams will be administered online, with one exception: an in-person examination scheduled for March 28, during the New York State Outdoor Guides Association Winter Rendezvous.
Online exams will be available from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. on the following dates, with registration required by the day prior to each exam: Jan. 29; Feb. 20; April 14; May 12; June 11; July 9; Aug. 21; Sept. 15; and Oct. 23. Registration for the March 28 in-person exam must be received by March 21.
Registration and detailed instructions are available through the DEC’s Licensed Guide Program webpage at https://dec.ny.gov/regulatory/permits-licenses/fish-wildlife-plant/licensed-guide-program Applicants who register will receive a confirmation email with a one-time link to access the exam on their selected date. Those who pass will be provided with instructions and materials to apply for licensure. The department advises applicants not to submit license applications or fees until after successfully completing the exam.
