Physician Assistant / New York
2026 data New York board official source

New York Physician Assistant License Requirements

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

Practices medicine under physician supervision. Requires PANCE exam and masters degree.

What the New York data shows for Physician Assistants

To practice as a physician assistant in New York, the state licensing board requires 3,884 documented education or training hours, a passing score on PANCE (Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam). A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under New York's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Masters Degree (MPAS or MMS)".

The initial price tag is $277, and renewal costs $247 every 2 years. Maintaining the license requires 100 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

For physician assistants, the reciprocity picture is: PA Licensure Compact: adoption underway in many states.

Licensing Requirements in New York

Education / Training Hours
Masters Degree (MPAS or MMS)
3,884 hours
Exam Requirement
PANCE (Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$277
Renewal Fee
$247
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
100 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with New York licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Physician Assistant in New York?
In New York, the license path calls for 3884 education/training hours, a passing score on PANCE (Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam), and a $277 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Physician Assistant in New York?
To become a licensed physician assistant in New York, you must meet the state's requirements including 3884 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the New York licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Physician Assistant license to New York from another state?
Physician Assistant licenses generally reciprocate as follows: PA Licensure Compact: adoption underway in many states. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The New York licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does New York require a background check for Physician Assistant licensing?
Yes, New York requires a criminal background check as part of the physician assistant licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Physician Assistant in New York?
To stay licensed as a physician assistant in New York, plan on 100 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $247.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites