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Obtain a: Master Sign Hanger License

All new license applications must be submitted online at nyc.gov/dobnow. See the New License Application User Guide for step-by-step directions. The Licensing & Exams Unit is not accepting any walk-in transactions, or paper applications for this process.

STEP 1: Qualifications

To obtain a Master Sign Hanger license, you must meet the following qualifications prior to applying for the license:

  • Be at least eighteen (18) years old
  • Be able to read and write the English language
  • Be fit to perform the work authorized by the Master Sign Hanger license
  • Have good moral character so as not to adversely impact your fitness to perform the duties and responsibilities of a Master Sign Hanger
  • Must pass Department-sponsored examinations administered for Master Sign Hanger
  • Have five (5) years of experience in sign hanging as a designated sign hanging foreman under the direct and continuing supervision of a licensed Master Sign Hanger, within the seven (7) years prior to the application
  • Have knowledge of and the ability to read plans and specifications relating to sign construction and erection, including supporting framework and other supports, and knowledge of the problems and practices of sign construction and hanging and be familiar with the equipment and tools used in sign hanging

STEP 2: Applying for the Exam

You must pass written and practical exams to become a Master Sign Hanger.

Written

You must complete the exam application (LIC41), check the box that indicates you are a Master Sign Hanger candidate and submit the application with the $525.00 fee to the Department.

Practical

After passing the written exam, you must apply to take the practical exam (LIC42). First, complete the exam application, check the box that indicates you are a Master Sign Hanger candidate and submit the application with the $350.00 fee, payable by money order only, to:

NYC Department of Buildings
Licensing & Exams Unit - Exams
280 Broadway, 1st Floor
New York, NY 10007

STEP 3: Scheduling Your Exam

After submitting your exam application, next you must schedule your exam.

  • If your application is accepted, you will receive an email from the exam administrator within one (1) to two (2) weeks with instructions on how to schedule your exam. Exams are given at several different locations in the State.
  • The exam assesses your knowledge of the NYC Administrative Codes, rules and applicable regulations. You will not be allowed to use reference materials during the exam.
  • Passing score is seventy (70) percent. If you pass the written exam, the site proctor will print your report on-site and a practical exam will be scheduled.
  • If you pass the practical exam, you will receive a letter via US Mail by CPS approximately three (3) to four (4) weeks after the date of the practical exam.

STEP 4: Submitting Your Application

You must complete an online application and submit the required documents listed below as scanned PDFs via the DOB NOW Portal. Applicants that do not currently have an eFiling account will need to create an account by completing the registration form.

You must upload PDF scans. Pictures of documents will not be accepted. The following documentation is required:

  • LIC2 application
  • LIC34, if applicable
  • LIC50 or LIC51 application
    NOTE: Applicants with a home address outside of New York City’s five (5) boroughs must complete the LIC50 Authorization for Service of Process by Agent. Applicants may also fill out the LIC51 Voluntary Authorization for Service of Process by Email even if they reside within the City of New York.
  • Examination Score Report Form
  • LIC62 Physical Exam Form must be completed within 90 days prior to application
  • Experience Verification Forms from all supervisors for the years you are claiming as experience
    NOTE: Experience Verification Forms from company Human Resources will not be accepted.
  • Background Investigation Questionnaire
  • Social Security History of Earnings for the years you are claiming as experience
    NOTE: There is a fee charged by the Social Security Administration for this service. You must request the report to be run by company name. You may request your Earnings History by mail or in-person (ordinarily you can receive this instantly in-person).
  • Photo ID (driver’s license, learner’s permit, State ID, green card, or passport)
  • Original social security card
  • Latest pay stub or W-2
  • Child Support Certification Form
  • Background Investigation Fee – $500.00 payable within the DOB NOW Portal
    For questions pertaining to your background investigation or to find out the status, please send inquiries to lbackgrounds@buildings.nyc.gov.
  • License Issuance Fee – $100.00

STEP 5: Obtaining Your License Card

Once you have passed the background investigation, you need to obtain your Master Sign Hanger license card.

  • If you pass the background investigation and receive Business Application approval, you will be able to schedule an appointment within the DOB NOW Portal to take picture and receive the Master Sign Hanger license card.
  • You have one (1) year from the date of Department’s notice of approval to submit the required forms, documents and fees to obtain your license. Failure to do so within the time will result in the denial of license issuance and will require a re-examination and reapplication.
  • If you are approved for the license you are required to be an officer/partner/sole proprietor of a business/company, and the business must have a place of business in New York City that complies with all Zoning Code regulations (i.e., within a commercial zone).
  • All Applicants will be required to submit insurance certificates for General Liability, Worker’s Compensation and Disability to obtain the license.