I have a felony from Georgia, will that keep me from obtaining my NY State Real Estate License? The felony was 1st degre forgery

Yes, almost for sure.

I know in TN you have to submit in writing a request for a waiver for any felony, some like DUI and those from long ago, will receive a waiver.

So depending on how long ago this way, 15 or 20 years ago, you may be able to get it allowed, 2 or 3 years ago, not a chance ( my opinion)

First day of real estate class, they ask does anyone have a felony and have not already gotten a waiver, those that did and did not have a waiver where sent home.