VESID Logo - Our mission is educational equity and excellence for students with disabilities; assure appropriate continuity between the child and adult services systems; and provide the highest quality vocational rehabilitation and independent living services to enable them to work and live independent, self-directed lives. SED Seal - SED Mission is to raise the knowledge, skill, and opportunity of all the people in New York.VESID - Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities
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Government Employees - 55A Programs For Qualified Persons with Disabilities

The State of New York is strongly committed to improving the representation of persons with disabilities within its work force. One of the programs used by the State and NYC to provide opportunities to qualified persons with disabilities is a program known as the "55-a Program."

Section 55-a of the New York State Civil Service Law permits municipalities to employ persons, who have been certified as physically or mentally disabled, in civil service positions on a non-competitive basis.  In the City of New York,  this provision is implemented by the through the 55-a Program, which is administered by the New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services. You must be certified as being physically or mentally disabled and qualified to perform the duties of the job.

A qualified person with a disability who is appointed to the 55-a Program is not required to take a written or oral examination. Persons eligible under this program are not placed on a civil service list. Eligible persons will be evaluated on the basis of their qualifications and interviews. Eligibility for the 55-a Program is determined based on an official certification that an individual is physically or mentally disabled and qualified to perform the duties of the job.

Applicants for employment within New York City agencies who wish to be certified for the 55-a program should apply directly to the human resources director of any City agency.

Qualified persons must meet the skills, education and/or experience qualifications for the position. Further, they must meet other criteria relative to being certified as physically or mentally disabled and qualified to perform the duties of a position, with or without a reasonable accommodation.

Within NYC you may obtain a free brochure with more complete information by calling: (212) 669-8643 (212) 669-8660 (TTY).