The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced that out of an abundance of caution and to limit the community spread of COVID-19, DEC has postponed the examinations scheduled for April 3, 2020, to practice the sport of falconry, become a wildlife rehabilitator, or use leashed tracking dogs to find wounded or injured big game animals. The exams were originally scheduled to be administered at DEC regional offices statewide.

DEC will offer these examinations on August 14, 2020, at most DEC Regional Offices. Individuals currently registered for the April 3 examinations can register for the August examinations by contacting the Special Licenses Unit at 518-402-8985 or SpecialLicenses@dec.ny.gov and request to have their names included for the August exams.

All others who wish to apply for the August exams can visit the DEC Special Licenses Unit website and complete an exam registration form. Applicants can mail, fax, or email the completed form to: NYSDEC Special Licenses Unit, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-4752; fax: 518-402-8925; email: SpecialLicenses@dec.ny.gov. For phone inquiries, contact 518-402-8985.