Do Veterans Get Free Hunting and Fishing Licenses in the United States?

In the United States, many states offer special privileges and discounts for veterans, active-duty military members, and seniors when it comes to hunting and fishing licenses. These benefits are a way to honor their service and commitment to conservation, as well as to encourage their continued participation in outdoor activities.

Senior Hunting and Fishing Licenses

As of 2024, 49 states currently offer discounted fishing licenses to seniors. These discounts vary by state, with some offering free licenses to seniors above a certain age, while others provide a reduced fee. For example, Kentucky offers a senior combination hunting and fishing license for residents 65 and older.

Active-Duty Military Hunting and Fishing Licenses

Many states allow active-duty military members to obtain hunting and fishing licenses for free or at a discounted rate. Some states, such as Maine, exempt active-duty military members from hunter safety course requirements if they are home on leave and their home state of record is Maine.

Disabled Veteran Hunting and Fishing Licenses

Nearly every state with an active hunting and fishing community entitles disabled veterans to heavily discounted licenses for both fishing and hunting. The requirements and benefits vary by state:

– Alabama offers a special hunting license for 100% service-connected non-resident veterans for $2 plus the applicable issuance fee. 50% service-connected veterans can purchase a license at half the usual cost plus the issuance fee.

– Rhode Island offers free hunting licenses to veterans with a 100% disability rating from the VA. All other veterans are subject to the non-resident fees.

– Texas permits non-resident disabled veterans, consisting of the loss of use of a foot or leg or with a service-connected disability evaluated at 50% or more, to receive a free Super Combo Hunting and All-Water Fishing Package.

– Georgia offers a One Time Veterans License free to Georgia resident military veterans who served on active Federal duty for 90 or more days and were honorably discharged on July 1, 2005, or later. This license is valid for one year from the date of issue and may be issued only once.

– West Virginia only requires resident disabled veterans to have a hunting license. Non-residents must pay the regular fees, but can apply for special permits.

– Wyoming only offers discounted hunting licenses to resident disabled veterans. Non-resident disabled veterans are subject to specific fees.

It’s important to note that while these discounts and privileges are widely available, they are subject to each state’s specific regulations and requirements. Veterans and active-duty military members should contact their state’s department of natural resources or department of fish and wildlife to determine their eligibility and the application process.

In addition to hunting and fishing licenses, some states offer other benefits to veterans and active-duty military members, such as reduced fees for camping, boat registration, and other outdoor activities.

The sporting community has a long tradition of honoring those who have served our nation through the great outdoors. By offering discounted licenses and privileges, states are making it more accessible for veterans and active-duty military members to participate in these time-honored traditions.