Can You Get a Texas Fishing License Without an ID in 2024?

In the state of Texas, fishing licenses are required for anyone aged 17 and older who wishes to fish in public waters. However, the question of whether you can obtain a fishing license without an ID has been a topic of discussion among anglers. Let’s dive into the details and explore the requirements for getting a Texas fishing license in 2024.

Identification Requirements for Purchasing a Texas Fishing License

According to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD), identification is required when purchasing a fishing license. The most common form of identification used is a valid driver’s license or state-issued ID card. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule.

For Texas residents, proof of residency can be established by providing any three of the following documents:

A current Texas homestead property tax statement
The most recent six months of utility bills
The most recent six months of paycheck receipts
The most recent tax return from the Internal Revenue Service
A statement from a parole board or probation officer stating that the person has continuously resided in Texas for the six months immediately preceding the application for a license or permit
A valid Texas driver’s license issued at least six months prior to license or permit application
A current Texas voter registration certificate issued at least six months prior to license or permit application
A current vehicle registration issued at least six months prior to license or permit application

All documents must reflect the applicant’s name and a physical address in Texas. Except for a valid driver’s license or other state-issued identification card, additional residency documentation is not required at the time of purchase or while hunting or fishing.

Exceptions to the ID Requirement

While identification is generally required to purchase a Texas fishing license, there are a few exceptions to this rule:

Texas residents born before January 1, 1931 do not need a license to fish in Texas.
Anglers under the age of 17 do not need a license to fish in Texas.
Texas residents with an intellectual disability can fish license-free if they are under the direct supervision of a licensed angler who is either a family member or has permission from the family to take the person fishing. They must also have a note from a doctor stating the person has been diagnosed with an intellectual disability.

It’s important to note that while these exceptions allow individuals to fish without a license, they may still need to provide some form of identification to prove their eligibility for the exemption.

Purchasing a Texas Fishing License

If you do not fall under one of the exceptions mentioned above, you will need to purchase a Texas fishing license to legally fish in public waters. Licenses can be obtained from various retailers, including sporting goods stores, bait shops, and online through the TPWD website.

When purchasing a license, you will need to provide a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or state-issued ID card. If you are a Texas resident, you may also need to provide additional documentation to prove your residency, as mentioned earlier.

Once you have obtained your fishing license, you must have it in your possession while fishing. You can display an image of the license on your phone or show proof of purchase from inside the “Outdoor Annual” mobile app.

Reciprocal Agreements with Neighboring States

Texas has reciprocal agreements with some of its neighboring states, allowing anglers to fish in shared waters without the need for an additional license.

Louisiana: Texas residents over 65 can fish anywhere in Louisiana if they have a senior’s fishing license. Residents under 65 can also fish in Louisiana, but only in waters spanning the state border, such as the Sabine River, Sabine Pass, Sabine Lake, Caddo Lake, and Toledo Bend Reservoir.
Oklahoma: Only Texas state residents who are 65 and older can fish in Oklahoma without buying an OK license (bring ID) – and vice versa! Everyone else needs to buy a license as soon as they step over the border. The exception to this is fishing Lake Texoma with a Lake Texoma Fishing License.

It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the specific rules and regulations of each state to ensure you are fishing legally and responsibly.

Conclusion

While a valid ID is generally required to purchase a Texas fishing license, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Texas residents born before January 1, 1931, anglers under the age of 17, and Texas residents with an intellectual disability fishing under specific circumstances can fish without a license.

If you do need to purchase a fishing license, you can do so from various retailers or online through the TPWD website. When purchasing a license, you will need to provide a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or state-issued ID card. Additional residency documentation may be required for Texas residents.

Remember to always have your fishing license in your possession while fishing, either in physical form or displayed on your phone. Familiarize yourself with the specific rules and regulations of Texas and any neighboring states you may be fishing in to ensure you are fishing legally and responsibly.