California offers two types of lifetime licenses for anglers and hunters: the Lifetime Fishing License and the Lifetime Hunting License. These licenses provide a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy fishing and hunting privileges for life, even if you move out of state.
Lifetime Fishing License
The Lifetime Fishing License entitles the angler to a sport fishing license each year for the remainder of their life. The cost of a Lifetime Fishing License varies based on the age of the applicant at the time of purchase:
License Type License Cost
0-9 Years Lifetime License $679.75
10-39 Years Lifetime License $1,112.00
40-61 Years Lifetime License $1,001.75
62 Years Lifetime License $679.75
Lifetime fishing licenses are valid for 365 days from the date of issuance.
Lifetime Hunting License
The Lifetime Hunting License entitles the hunter to a hunting license each year for the remainder of their life. The cost of a Lifetime Hunting License also varies based on the age of the applicant at the time of purchase:
License Type License Cost
Ages 0-9 $679.75
Ages 10-39 $1,112.00
Ages 40-61 $1,001.75
Ages 62 $679.75
Lifetime hunting licensees receive an annual hunting license each year for life. Lifetime Hunting Packages must first be purchased from a CDFW License Sales Office. Applicants for a Lifetime Hunting Package are not required to provide proof of hunter education at the time of purchase. However, proof of hunter education is required prior to the issuance of the lifetime hunting license.
Additional Privilege Packages
In addition to the basic Lifetime Fishing and Hunting Licenses, California offers several “Additional Privilege Packages” that include additional stamps, harvest report cards, and tags. These packages can be purchased for an additional cost and provide the included privileges each year for the remainder of the licensee’s life.
The Additional Sport Fishing Privileges package includes:
Second-Rod Validation
Ocean Enhancement Validation
North Coast Salmon Report Card
Steelhead Report Card
The Additional Bird Hunting Privileges package includes:
California Duck Validation
Upland Game Bird Validation
The Additional Big Game Hunting Privileges package includes:
First-Deer Tag Application
Five Wild Pig Tags
The deer tag application may be used to apply for a deer tag in the annual automated drawing or to pick up an over-the-counter tag.
Benefits of Lifetime Licenses
Lifetime licenses offer several benefits to dedicated hunters and anglers in California:
A lifetime of basic fishing and hunting license privileges (tag and validation privileges are available for an additional cost), even if you move out of state.
Protection against future fee increases.
The ability to renew your lifetime license at no cost each year at any CDFW License Agent, CDFW license sales office, or online.
To renew your lifetime license online, you must log in using your last name, date of birth, and GO ID (from your fishing or hunting license). Select “Purchase Licenses” from the menu, select your lifetime license and any other privileges you wish to renew, and complete the transaction. After submitting payment, you will receive a notice that the transaction is complete and your license will be mailed to you. You will also have the option to print a temporary license valid for 30 days until your permanent license arrives.
Lifetime licenses enable California’s dedicated hunters and anglers to enjoy a lifetime of fishing and hunting privileges at a fixed cost, regardless of future fee increases. By investing in a lifetime license, you are supporting the future of hunting and fishing in California.