Civil Service PositionS for Individuals with Disabilities

Workers with Disabilities (55-a)

In accordance with Section 55-a of the Civil Service Law, individuals with disabilities may be eligible for employment in certain positions in local governments (counties, cities, towns, and villages), without having to take a written examination.

Application Process

In order to be employed under Section 55-a in local government positions, individuals with disabilities should apply directly to the employer for any entry-level position for which they meet the required minimum qualifications.
A nomination for appointment to a position pursuant to Section 55-a must be made by the appointing authority to the local civil service commission or Personnel Officer if the employer is interested in appointing an individual with a disability.
The local Civil Service Commission or Personnel Officer will request the position duties and responsibilities be reviewed by either the New York State Commission for the Blind (NYSCB), or the State Education Department (SED) to determine if the nominee is able to perform the duties of the position.
If the nominee is able to perform the job duties of the position, the NYSCB or SED will certify to the local civil service agency that the nominee is eligible for appointment.
Note that while certification by these organizations is required to be employed under Section 55-a, such certification is not a guarantee of a job. For more information regarding Section 55-a, you should contact the local civil service agency having jurisdiction over the position.

Overview of Governor's Program to Hire Individuals and Veterans with Disabilities (55-b and 55-c)

The Governor's Programs to Hire Individuals and Veterans with Disabilities consist of two specialized programs: the 55-b and the 55-c Program. These programs are coordinated efforts to place individuals with disabilities in entry-level state jobs.

Section 55-b of the New York State Civil Service Law authorizes the New York State Civil Service Commission to designate up to 1,200 positions normally filled through competitive examination to be filled through the appointment of qualified persons with disabilities. Section 55-c authorizes the designation of up to 500 positions in the non-competitive class to be filled by qualified veterans with disabilities. In general, an entry-level position that is filled only through an open-competitive examination (one open to the public) may be used for a 55-b or 55-c appointment.

No initial written examination is required for appointment. To qualify for either program, you must first submit a formal application. A medical evaluation may be necessary for program certification.

For Frequently Asked Questions regarding the 55-b/c Program, visit the FAQ page.

Please note that Sections 55-b and 55-c are distinct from of the Civil Service Law Section 55-a, which provides similar employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities to positions in local government. Information regarding 55-a programs may be found here.

To apply for the 55-b/c Program, you must submit a completed application

55b-c-application-packet.pdf