How to get a Landscaping license in New York
The full New York landscaping licensing path — experience hours, required exam, fees, and where to apply. Verified 5/26/2026.
Career prep, not a license.
Prep for the New York Landscaping exam
Landscaping & Irrigation 101 — Start Here (Free) — self-paced lessons, practice exam, certificate of completion.
License details
Pesticide Applicator (if applying)
Verified 5/26/2026
Experience required
30 hours training
Required exam
CORE + Category 3A (NYSDEC)
Licensing authority
Notes & fees
No license for landscaping itself; Category 3A required to apply turf/ornamental pesticides.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a landscaping license in New York?
You need 30 hours training. Then pass the CORE + Category 3A administered by NYSDEC. Applications go through the NY State Dept of Environmental Conservation.
What exam do I need to pass?
CORE + Category 3A — administered by NYSDEC.
How much experience do I need?
30 hours training
What about fees, insurance, and continuing education?
No license for landscaping itself; Category 3A required to apply turf/ornamental pesticides.
Other landscaping licensing guides
Browse by state or trade.