We have identified two human C‐type lectin‐like receptors, CLEC‐1 and CLEC‐2. Both display a single carbohydrate recognition domain and a cytoplasmic tyrosine‐based motif. They are homologous to the NK cell receptors NKG2s and CD94 and also to the oxidized low‐density lipoprotein receptor 1. CLEC‐1 and CLEC‐2 are preferentially transcribed in dendritic cells (DC) and in the liver, respectively. Following transient transfection in COS cells, CLEC‐1 is expressed intracellularly, perhaps requiring an associated chain to reach the cell surface. CLEC‐2 is expressed on the surface of transfected cells as a protein of approximately 33 kDa. CLEC‐1 and CLEC‐2 genes map to human chromosome 12, most likely in linkage with the NK gene complex (NKC). Thus, the NKC may encode C‐type lectin‐like receptors expressed not only in NK cells but also in other cells, and at least one of these is of potential importance in regulating DC function.