The requirements for coroners in the state of New York are determined by the county. In most cases, the coroner is an elected position with no minimum qualifications. According to the New York State Commission on Local Government Efficiency and Competitiveness, most elected coroners are funeral directors.

Minimum Qualifications for Coroners

In New York, you must be at least 18 years old and live in the county where you are running to be elected coroner. In some counties the coroner is appointed by the county legislature. Coroners do not have to complete any formal training to fill the position. If a coroner is not a medical doctor, the county must appoint a coroner's physician. This is a licensed doctor who can perform autopsies.

Medical Examiner Qualifications

Some New York counties have medical examiners rather than coroners. Although this is also an appointed position, medical examiners must be licensed medical doctors to qualify.