How to Renew Your NYC Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) License in 2026
New York City Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) licenses are issued by the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) and renew every two years, expiring February 28 of odd-numbered years.
When it's due
Feb 28 of odd years. File your renewal at least 15 days early with updated proof of insurance and bond.
How to renew
Renew through DCWP with current insurance and bonding. Keep those certificates active — a lapse there stalls the renewal.
What trips people up
If your HIC license lapses and you pull a permit anyway, DOB can flag it during inspection — a stop-work order that hits you and your client at once.
Never miss a renewal again
Snap a photo of your license — Renady reads the expiration date and reminds you at 60, 30, and 7 days out. Works in any state. Free permit audit to start.
Get your free permit audit →Always confirm your exact renewal date with NYC DCWP. Cycles and rules can change.