© NYRR
How to register for the United Airlines NYC Half
Running 21.1 km through the heart of New York—crossing the Brooklyn Bridge, emerging into Times Square closed to traffic, and finishing in Central Park—sounds like a dream for many runners. The United Airlines NYC Half, organized by New York Road Runners (NYRR), is far more than just another half marathon. It’s one of the most prestigious races in the United States, a deep immersion in American running culture, and one of the most coveted spring events, typically held in March. But with growing popularity comes fierce demand. Securing a bib is far from easy. Lottery systems, loyalty programs, time qualifications, charity entries, and international tour operators all come into play. Here is the complete guide to understanding how to register for the New York City Half Marathon.
✓ How do you register for the NYC Half? Here’s when and how to secure your spot.
| A course through some of New York’s most iconic landmarks
Each year, the United Airlines NYC Half gathers more than 28,000 runners from around the world.
The course is one of the best ways to experience the city that never sleeps. The race starts in Brooklyn, crosses the East River via the iconic Brooklyn Bridge (the only race that uses it), runs up Manhattan, passes through Times Square—closed to traffic only twice a year—and finishes with a spectacular stretch inside Central Park.
On the elite side, NYRR consistently assembles a strong field. The race regularly attracts top American and international runners, drawn by the prestige of New York and attractive prize money ($20,000 for the male and female winners).
Running a NYRR race adds a touch of magic to any runner’s goals in a country where running is deeply rooted in culture.
| The standard entry: the lottery system
For most runners, entry comes through the non-guaranteed lottery, similar to major international marathons.
Key dates for the 2026 edition:
Application period: October 21 – November 11, 2025
➜ Lottery drawing: November 20, 2025
Applicants are divided into three groups:
➜ Residents of the New York City metropolitan area
➜ U.S. residents outside NYC
➜ International runners
To check if you’ve been selected, log into your NYRR account. Another clue: your credit card will automatically be charged if your entry is accepted, and your status will change to “Accepted.”
If payment fails, you will have a short window to resolve the issue. Registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
| Other ways to secure a bib
Fortunately, several options allow runners to bypass the lottery.
The “4 Out of 6” program (NYRR members)
NYRR members who complete four qualifying NYRR races in 2025 (from an approved list) receive guaranteed entry for the 2026 NYC Half. Important: runners must still claim their entry between October 21 and November 11, 2025. After that deadline, the guaranteed entry is lost.
Time qualification
NYRR also offers a limited number of entries to runners who achieve a qualifying time in a certified half marathon between October 21, 2024 and October 20, 2025.
Two scenarios apply:
➜ Qualification at a NYRR race → guaranteed entry
➜ Qualification at a non-NYRR race → limited spots, prioritized by fastest times in each age group
If applications exceed available spots, only the fastest performances are accepted. The remaining applicants are moved into the general lottery—similar to systems used by World Marathon Majors like the New York City Marathon.
Charity entries
Registering through an official charity partner guarantees entry in exchange for fundraising. Popular programs include:
➜ Team for Kids, the historic NYRR charity program
➜ Environmental initiatives such as Team for Climate
Most charities require runners to raise around $1,500. For many participants, it’s a meaningful way to combine racing with a cause.
International tour operators
For international runners, this is often the simplest option Official travel agencies such as Marathon Tours & Travel offer packages including:
➜ Guaranteed race entry
➜ Hotel accommodation (often in Times Square or Manhattan)
➜ Logistical support
➜ VIP race-day services
Expect around $1,050 for a three-night package, plus approximately $275 for the race bib. It’s more expensive, but it provides peace of mind and a guaranteed entry.
NYRR Race Free program (financial assistance)
NYRR is also known for its commitment to accessibility. Through its Race Free program, runners who meet financial eligibility criteria may receive a free race entry. Applications usually open in October for the following year’s race.
| Entry fees, cancellations, and deferrals
The race entry fee is:
➜ $142.76 for NYRR members
➜ $169.20 for non-members
Registration fees are non-refundable. However, runners can defer their entry to the following year under certain conditions if they do so before the deadline (mid-March). A bib obtained through a previous deferral cannot be deferred again. In short: be sure of your schedule before registering.
| Why the NYC Half is so popular
Running a half marathon is already a big achievement. But running the NYC Half is something special. Reasons include:
✔ An iconic urban course
✔ World-class NYRR organization
✔ A deep American running tradition
✔ Perfect early-season timing
✔ An electric atmosphere
The United Airlines NYC Half is more than just a race—it’s a rite of passage for many American runners. A dress rehearsal before autumn marathons. A moment suspended in a city that never does anything halfway.
Key information – United Airlines NYC Half 2026
- Date: Sunday, March 15, 2026
- Participants: around 29,000 runners expected
- Elevation gain: about 150 m (rolling course)
- Average temperature: between 5°C and 10°C
- Goal: a point-to-point race focused on experience rather than pure speed
- Price: starting at $142.76
| In summary: what strategy should you choose?
Want to try your luck ➜ enter the lottery when it opens (October 21).
Regular NYRR member ➜ aim for the 4 Out of 6 program.
Fast runner ➜ attempt a time qualification.
International runner wanting security ➜ book through a tour operator.
Want to run for a cause ➜ sign up with a charity partner.
Like the New York City Marathon, the NYC Half is extremely popular. Spots disappear quickly, but NYRR provides multiple entry paths. The key is to plan several months in advance. One thing is certain: running across the Brooklyn Bridge at sunrise and bursting into Times Square is an experience every runner should live at least once.
✔ Full registration details are available on the official NYRR website.
Clément LABORIEUX
Journalist
