As a token of appreciation for their service and sacrifice, the state of Arizona offers several benefits to veterans, including discounted or complimentary hunting and fishing licenses. In 2024, eligible veterans can take advantage of these recreational opportunities at reduced or no cost.
Disabled Veteran’s Complimentary License
One of the most significant benefits for veterans in Arizona is the Disabled Veteran’s Complimentary License. This license is available to veterans who meet the following criteria:
Have been a resident of Arizona for at least one year immediately preceding the application
Are receiving compensation from the United States government for permanent and total service-connected disabilities rated at 100% disabling
Note: A VA rating of 100% Individual Un-employability is not authorized to receive this license
The Disabled Veteran’s Complimentary License grants all the privileges of a Hunt/Fish Combination License at no cost to the veteran.
To obtain this license, veterans must visit their local Arizona Game and Fish Department office and bring a copy of their VA benefits letter stating they are 100% disabled, permanent and total. Alternatively, they can complete the application form and mail it to the Arizona Game and Fish Department along with a copy of their VA benefits letter.
Purple Heart Recipient Reduced-Fee License
In addition to the Disabled Veteran’s Complimentary License, Arizona also offers a reduced-fee license for Purple Heart recipients who have been an Arizona resident for at least one full year.
The Purple Heart medal is presented to service members who have been wounded or killed as a result of enemy action while serving in the U.S. military. A Purple Heart recipient will be required to complete an application and provide proof to the department that they are a bona fide Purple Heart Medal recipient and have been an Arizona resident for one or more years immediately before applying for the license.
The reduced-fee Purple Heart License costs $28 and is valid for a lifetime from the date of issuance.
Other Veteran Benefits
In addition to discounted hunting and fishing licenses, Arizona offers several other benefits to veterans:
Complimentary licenses may be granted to veterans 70 years or older who have been residents of this state for 25 years
Arizona State Parks offers a complimentary “Disabled Veterans Annual Day Use Pass” to veterans who reside in the state of Arizona, are certified by the Veteran’s Administration as one hundred percent disabled, and draw compensation on that basis
Funeral directors, embalmers, or apprentice embalmers who serve in the armed forces during a time of war are exempt from paying renewal license fees for the duration of the war and six months thereafter or for a period of six months following discharge from the armed forces
Arizona offers several special license plates for veterans, including Medal of Honor, Prisoner of War, Purple Heart, and Pearl Harbor Survivors plates
To take advantage of these benefits, veterans should contact their local Arizona Game and Fish Department office, Arizona State Parks, or the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services for more information and application requirements.
In conclusion, Arizona demonstrates its appreciation for veterans by offering a range of recreational and professional benefits, including discounted or complimentary hunting and fishing licenses. These benefits help make it easier for veterans to enjoy the great outdoors and pursue their hobbies and careers in the state they call home.