Albany \u2014 The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation recently announced that examinations are scheduled for individuals seeking to become licensed guides in New York State.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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\u2019s license.<\/p>\n
All exams will be online, except for the in-person exam offered at the New York State Outdoor Guides Association<\/a> (NYSOGA) Winter Rendezvous<\/a> meeting on March 28, at the Tailwater Lodge, in Altmar.<\/p>\n MORE COVERAGE FROM NEW YORK OUTDOOR NEWS:<\/a><\/p>\n Busy antler measuring season about to begin in New York<\/a><\/p>\n Southern Adirondacks town debates use of \u2018ice-eaters\u2019 on lakes<\/a><\/p>\n New Adirondack Brook Trout Pond Management Plan built to protect a \u2018precious resource\u2019<\/a><\/p>\n Exam dates for 2026 are as follows:<\/p>\n \u2022 Jan. 29;<\/p>\n \u2022 Feb. 20;<\/p>\n \u2022 March 28, (NYSOGA meeting only);<\/p>\n \u2022 April 14;<\/p>\n \u2022 May 12;<\/p>\n \u2022 June 11;<\/p>\n \u2022 July 9;<\/p>\n \u2022 August 21;<\/p>\n \u2022 Sept. 15;<\/p>\n \u2022 October 23.<\/p>\n Registration deadlines are the day prior to the exam, except for the NYSOGA exam, which is March 21.<\/p>\n An outline of exam content and a study guide can be found on DEC\u2019s Licensed Guide Program webpage<\/a>. The \u201cScouting America Fieldbook\u201d is also recommended as a reference and is available online.<\/p>\n \u201cAs part of our ongoing efforts to enhance the customer experience, DEC is proud to offer these free examinations online,\u201d said DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton. \u201cThis process makes it easier for individuals to apply and take part in helping others safely and responsibly enjoy New York\u2019s incredible outdoor recreational opportunities.\u201d<\/p>\n To register, visit the Licensed Guide Exams Registration Website<\/a>. 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.<\/p>\n Exam and registration instructions can be found on DEC\u2019s Licensed Guide Program webpage<\/a>.\u00a0For questions or assistance please contact: NYS DEC Special Licenses Unit, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-4752<\/p>\n