Licensing Services

Apply, Renew or Manage a Professional License

Access resources and information about New York State licensing services through the Department of State.
Become a Licensed Professional

New York State offers a wide range of professional licenses. The New York Business Express (NYBE) portal is an online resource to help you start or manage a business or professional license in New York State.

Use Business Express to:

  • Apply for, renew, or update select licenses — including cosmetology, barber, real estate, notary public, and more.

  • Create or log in to your secure NY.GOV ID to build a Business Profile to access your licenses or applications.

  • Access step-by-step guidance, downloadable forms, fee details, exam scheduling, and application tracking.

Review the instructions for your specific license to see if it's available through Business Express or requires a mail-in application.

See important updates from the Division of Licensing Services.

Find a Licensee or File a Complaint

Find a Licensee

Search for a licensee by using our Licensee Search application.

File a Complaint

If a member of the public believes that a licensee has acted in an untrustworthy or incompetent manner, they may file a complaint.

Can't find what you are looking for?
Contact Us!
By using our Licensing Contact Form, you will receive a faster response and avoid wait times.