The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced upcoming dates for the New York State Licensed Guide exam. Licensed Guides offer services for hire, including directing, instructing, or aiding another individual in camping, fishing, hiking, hunting, whitewater rafting/canoeing/kayaking, rock climbing, and ice climbing. To provide enhanced access, DEC is offering these examinations online and free-of-charge.
“As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance the customer experience, DEC is proud to offer these free examinations online,” said DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton. “This process makes it easier for individuals to apply and take part in helping others safely and responsibly enjoy New York’s incredible outdoor recreational opportunities.”
To become a licensed guide, a person must be 18 or older. Applicants are not required to be a resident of New York State to receive a guide's license. All exams will be online, except for the in-person exam offered at the New York State Outdoor Guides Association (NYSOGA) Winter Rendezvous meeting on March 28, 2026. Exam and registration instructions can be found on DEC’s Licensed Guide Program webpage.
2026 Licensed Guide Examination Schedule | ||
Exam Date | Exam Times | Registration Must be Received by: |
| Jan. 29, 2026 | 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. | Jan. 28, 2026 |
| Feb. 20, 2026 | 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. | Feb. 19, 2026 |
March 28, 2026 | NYSOGA meeting only | March 21, 2026 |
April 14, 2026 | 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. | April 13, 2026 |
May 12, 2026 | 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. | May 11, 2026 |
June 11, 2026 | 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. | June 10, 2026 |
July 9, 2026 | 7:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. | July 8, 2026 |
August 21, 2026 | 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. | August 20, 2026 |
| Sept. 15, 2026 | 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. | Sept. 14, 2026 |
October 23, 2026 | 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. | October 22, 2026 |
To register, visit the Licensed Guide Exams Registration Website. Applicants will receive an email acknowledging registration with a one-time link to access the exam on the specified exam date. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive information on applying for the license, including an application form. Please do not send applications or fees prior to passing the examination.
An outline of exam content and a study guide can be found on DEC’s Licensed Guide Program webpage. The “Scouting America Fieldbook” is also recommended as a reference and is available online.
For questions or assistance please contact:
NYS DEC Special Licenses Unit, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-4752
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