Licensed Outdoor Guide
Description
A licensed outdoor guide directs, instructs and aids client(s) in fishing, hunting, camping, hiking, whitewater rafting and canoeing, or rock and ice climbing.
Licensing Requirements
Applicants must file an application with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (ENCON). The latest information and requirements for outdoor guide licensure are available on the New York State Environmental Conservation Department's Office of Public Protection website at: www.dec.ny.gov/permits/30969.html.
Age Requirement
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
Education
All guides must have current American Red Cross (ARC), or an approved equivalent, for standard first aid, cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, and water safety certification. Whitewater canoeing guides must have basic river canoeing instructor certification for open canoes, or must have river kayaking instructor certification for kayak and covered canoes.
Fees
Applicants must submit $25 with application. Applicants who pass the written test will then pay $75 for a single activity license and $20 for each additional activity license. Examples: License for fishing = $100 total. Licenses for fishing and hunting = $120 total. Licenses for hunting, fishing and whitewater canoeing = $140 total. Licenses must be renewed every five years.
Examination Requirements
The examination is a written, multiple-choice test given at least four times a year at selected ENCON field offices. A score of 70 percent is passing. If applicants fail, they can take a second exam for no additional fee.
Licenses Issued and Active
As of August 28, 2008, there were 2,108 licensed outdoor guides in New York State.
Licensing Authority
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Office of Public Protection-Forest Rangers
625 Broadway
Albany, New York 12233-2560
Phone: (518) 402-8838
Fax: (518) 402-8840
E-mail: aposlus@gw.dec.state.ny.us
Standard Occupational Classification
39-6021 - Tour Guides and Escorts
To learn more about this occupation go to the Occupational Information Network (O*Net).