Navigating the legal landscape often requires the crucial step of process serving. In New York City, individuals who serve legal documents professionally must obtain a Process Server Individual License. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about securing your license and operating legally as a process server in NYC.
Who Needs a Process Server License in New York City?
According to the New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP), you are required to have a Process Server Individual License if you engage in serving five (5) or more processes personally or through substituted service within a single year in NYC. This regulation ensures accountability and professionalism within the process serving industry in the city.
However, there are specific exemptions. You do not need a Process Server Individual license if:
- You are a practicing attorney admitted to the New York State bar.
- You are a government employee (city, state, or federal) acting within the official scope of your employment.
It’s important to understand that this is a simplified overview. For complete clarity on whether you need a license, always refer to the official DCWP guidelines and regulations.
Essential Requirements for Your NYC Process Server License Application
To streamline your application process, here’s a quick checklist of the essential documents and steps you’ll need to complete. For detailed information on each requirement, continue reading the sections below.
- Basic Individual License Application
- Valid Photo Identification (ID)
- Process Server Individual Background Information Form
- One Recent Color Passport-size Photograph
- Process Server Individual Bond (Surety Bond)
- Roster of Process Serving Agencies
- Process Server Individual Exam and $75 Exam Fee
- Electronic Device Certification
- Recordkeeping Certification
- Fingerprints and Processing Fee
- Granting Authority to Act Affirmation (if applicable)
- License Fee
Remember: Submitting your application is only the first step. The DCWP must review and approve your complete application before a license is issued. Incomplete applications will not be processed.
Diving Deeper: Understanding the Requirements
Let’s explore each requirement in detail to ensure you have everything in order for a successful application.
1. Photo Identification (ID)
You must provide a valid, government-issued photo ID. Acceptable forms of identification include:
- U.S. Driver’s License or Non-Driver ID
- Government Agency-Issued License or Permit
- Valid Passport
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- City, State, or Federal Employee ID
- NYC Municipal ID Card
This ensures the DCWP can properly verify your identity as part of the licensing process.
2. Current Color Passport-Size Photograph
You need to submit a recent color passport-size photograph. The DCWP offers a convenient option to have your photo taken for free at their Licensing Center. Alternatively, you can submit your own current passport photo, or upload a digital passport photo if applying online. A standard digital camera with at least 1 mega-pixel resolution is sufficient for digital submissions.
This photograph will be used for your official license and helps in visual identification.
3. Roster of Process Serving Agencies
You are required to submit a completed Roster of Process Serving Agencies form.
Download the Roster of Process Serving Agencies Form
This form likely helps the DCWP understand your affiliations with process serving agencies, if any.
4. Electronic Device Certification
Process servers in NYC are required to utilize electronic devices for record-keeping and GPS tracking. You must complete and submit an Electronic Device Certification form.
Download the Electronic Device Certification Form
This certification confirms your understanding and commitment to using compliant electronic devices in your process serving activities.
5. Fingerprints and Processing Fee
All applicants must undergo fingerprinting as part of the background check process. You need to schedule an appointment with IdentoGO for fingerprinting.
To schedule your fingerprinting appointment:
- Visit uenroll.identogo.com
- Use the Service Code 1585J9.
- Enter your Agency ID, which is the numerical part of your Application Number (e.g., for Application Number 1234567-2023-AHIC, the Agency ID is 12345672023).
- Follow the prompts and pay the required processing fee.
Important: Schedule your fingerprinting appointment as soon as possible to avoid delays in your application processing.
6. License Fee
The Process Server Individual License is valid for a two-year period, expiring on February 28th of even-numbered years. The license fee varies depending on when you submit your application.
| Application Filing Dates | License Fee Option 1 | License Fee Option 2 |
|---|---|---|
| March 1* (even year) to August 31 (even year)*or Feb 29 leap year | $340 (Valid up to 24 months, expiring Feb 28 of the next even year) | N/A |
| September 1 (even year) to February 28 (odd year) | $255 (Valid up to 18 months, expiring Feb 28 of the soonest even year) | N/A |
| March 1 (odd year) to August 31 (odd year) | $170 (Valid up to 12 months, expiring Feb 28 of the soonest even year) | N/A |
| September 1 (odd year) to February 28 (even year) | $85 (Valid up to 6 months, expiring Feb 28 of the soonest even year) | $425 (Valid up to 30 months, expiring Feb 28 of the next even year) |
You can pay your license fee via:
- Check or money order payable to DCWP (in-person applications).
- Credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover) with a nonrefundable convenience fee (in-person or online).
How to File Your Application
You have two options for filing your Process Server Individual License application: online or in person.
Filing Online
- Gather Your Materials: Ensure you have all required documents and information ready in digital format.
- Apply Online: Click the “Apply Online” button on the DCWP website to log in or create an account and begin your application.
Filing In Person
Schedule an appointment to file in person at either the DCWP Licensing Center or the NYC Small Business Support Center.
DCWP Licensing Center
42 Broadway, Lobby
New York, NY 10004
By Appointment Only
Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Last appointment at 3:30 p.m.)
NYC Small Business Support Center
90-27 Sutphin Blvd, 4th Floor
Jamaica, NY 11435
By Appointment Only
Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Last appointment at 3:30 p.m.)
To schedule an in-person appointment:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (212) 436-0441 (Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.) For appointment scheduling only.
Free interpretation services are available at both locations. For disability-related accommodations, visit the DCWP Accommodations page.
Essential Resources for Licensed Process Servers in NYC
Once you are licensed, remember to utilize the resources available to you:
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DCWP Process Server Portal: nyc.gov/processserver – Use this portal to submit required certifications, reports, and roster updates.
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Annual Audit and Certification Concerning Service in Housing Court: Licensed process servers must electronically submit a certification twice yearly regarding service in housing court. The DCWP will notify you via email about this requirement. Ensure you provide and maintain an active email address with the DCWP to receive these important notifications.
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Electronic Record Keeping: While the requirement for a physical Process Server’s Registry Ledger book has been updated, electronic record-keeping is essential.
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GPS Electronic Devices: Utilize GPS-enabled electronic devices for accurate service tracking and record-keeping. A list of software companies providing compliant devices is available for download:
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NYC Business Resources: For general business support and growth resources, visit nyc.gov/business.
By following this comprehensive guide, you can confidently navigate the process of obtaining your Process Server Individual License in NYC and ensure you operate legally and professionally.
