The Freelancers Guide To Getting an NYC Press Pass

Last Updated on January 8, 2026 by Erin Donahue

I am fully entering my photojournalist era, and if you’re a New York–based freelancer or creator, this could be your next step too. While I’ve photographed concerts and events for editorial use, those count as private events and are irrelevant to obtaining a press pass.

As it turns out, the definition of “press” has expanded significantly. Social media has altered the landscape, democratizing how individuals reach audiences beyond traditional media like magazines, newspapers, and TV. The Press Credentials Office (PCO) now recognizes independent photographers, freelancers, and digital-first creators as legitimate members of the modern press. If you regularly cover public events in New York City and publish that work for a public audience, including on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, or TikTok, you may already qualify for an NYC press pass.

This guide walks through how freelancers can apply for and receive a Standard NYC Press Card, based on my own experience going through the process.

What Is an NYC Press Pass and Why Does It Matter?

An NYC press pass, officially issued as a City of New York Press Card, gives members of the press access to areas restricted to the general public. This includes crossing police or fire lines at emergency or breaking news events, as well as attending City-government-sponsored events that are open to credentialed media. A press pass doesn’t automatically make someone a journalist, but it matters when access is restricted due to security, crowd control, or safety concerns.

As a New York City–based photographer and content creator, I already document public events throughout the year. Events like the Village Halloween and Thanksgiving Day Parade, Fourth of July fireworks, and Lunar New Year celebrations are all examples of coverage that can qualify when published publicly. It only seemed logical for me to acquire a press pass to facilitate access at events I was already going to.

The Difference Between NYC Press Pass vs NYPD Press Pass

There’s often confusion around terminology, especially when people search for an “NYPD press pass.” The Press Credentials Office under the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment issues the City of New York Press Card, not the NYPD. The NYPD handled press credentials historically, but that responsibility shifted in 2022. Today, the NYC Press Credentials Office issues press cards that allow credentialed members of the press to cross police or fire lines and access certain city-sponsored events when permitted. In practice, people often use “press pass,” “press card,” and “press credentials” interchangeably.

Who Can Apply for an NYC Press Pass?

The Press Credentials Office accepts applications from freelancers, independent journalists, and employees of newsgathering organizations. There are three types of press credentials available: Single Event, Standard, and Reserve Press Cards. This article focuses specifically on the Standard Press Card, since that’s what I applied for. There are full tutorials for the other two applications on the PCO website.

To be eligible for a Standard Press Card, applicants must demonstrate that they have published or broadcast six or more pieces of qualifying coverage within the previous 24 months. Applicants must cover these events in person, on separate days, and within one of New York City’s five boroughs. Qualifying work can include photographs, videos, or other media published through digital platforms, provided the coverage is public and news-oriented. This is honestly quite easy to obtain if you’re constantly running around the city to document and post about what’s happening in the Big Apple.

How To Apply for Your NYC Press Card (Step-by-Step)

Applicants complete the entire application through the NYC Press Credentials Portal, and the process is more straightforward than many freelancers expect. Here’s what the process is:

1. Create an account via the NYC Press Credentials Portal
2. Select Account Type (Individual or Newsgathering Organization)
3. Answer the required questions
4. Submit six pieces of qualifying media coverage
5. Upload supporting links or files to corroborate your work.
6. Wait for approval
7. Schedule an in-person appointment once approved
8. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID to the appointment
9. Pick up your Press Pass!

For my application, I simply downloaded and uploaded Instagram Reels and TikToks that corresponded directly to public events I had covered. The portal allows you to attach both links and media files to support your submission.

My Experience Getting Approved for an NYC Press Pass

As a freelancer who consistently documents public events in New York City, the application felt like a formal acknowledgment of work I was already doing. The Press Credentials Office approved my application in a single day, even over a major holiday weekend (New Year’s). Once approved, scheduling the in-person appointment was straightforward. The Press Credentials Office has clearly adapted to include digital-first media professionals who play a key role in covering life in New York City.

If you regularly cover public events in NYC, getting an official press pass adds legitimacy, improves access, and signals professionalism to event organizers, brands, and media outlets alike.

What an NYC Press Pass Actually Changes (A Real Example)

The practical value of an NYC press pass becomes most obvious during high-security public events. One of the clearest examples for me was New Year’s Eve in Times Square. With less than an hour left before midnight, I was able to access the secured area to document the event using my press credentials. No adult diapers needed! Without a press pass, that kind of access simply wouldn’t have been possible.

I documented the experience in a video that I posted across my platforms. The clip went viral on each one, reaching nearly two million views. With some storytelling magic, I showed in real time how press credentials can function during one of the most restricted public events in New York City. That being said, the press pass isn’t a guarantee of access. It doesn’t override safety, space limitations, or police discretion. I’ve been denied before. When press access is permitted, proper credentials can make the difference between documenting an event and watching it from behind a barricade.

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FAQ About NYC Press Pass for Freelancers

What is an NYC press pass?
An NYC press pass is an official credential issued by the City of New York that allows credentialed members of the press to access restricted areas during certain public events, including crossing police or fire lines when press access is permitted.

Do freelancers qualify for an NYC press pass?
Yes. Independent freelancers and self-employed creators can qualify for a Standard NYC Press Card as long as they meet the publication and coverage requirements set by the Press Credentials Office.

How many pieces of coverage are required to apply for an NYC Press Pass?
Applicants must submit at least six qualifying pieces of coverage published within the previous 24 months. These events must have been covered in person, on separate days, and within New York City’s five boroughs.

Do social media posts count as published coverage for an NYC Press Pass?
They can. Publicly posted photos or videos on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, or TikTok may qualify if they document real public events and reach a public audience.

How long does it take to get approved for an NYC press pass?
Approval times vary, but in my case, the application was approved within one day.

Does an NYC press pass guarantee access to events?
A press pass does not guarantee access. Final access decisions depend on safety, space limitations, and discretion at each event. When press access is permitted, proper credentials can make the difference between documenting an event and remaining behind barriers.