If you’re an avid hunter or angler in Oregon, you’ve likely encountered the term “ODFW ID number” on your licenses and tags. This unique identifier, formerly known as the Hunter/Angler ID number, is essential for purchasing licenses, submitting harvest reports, and maintaining your account with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW). In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to find your ODFW ID number in 2024, so you can stay compliant and enjoy your outdoor adventures with ease.
What is an ODFW ID Number?
The ODFW ID number is a unique identifier assigned to each hunter and angler in Oregon. It serves as your permanent account number and is printed on all ODFW licenses and tags. This number remains the same from year to year, making it easy to keep track of your account information and maintain your preferences and certifications.
In 2018, ODFW launched a new electronic licensing system (ELS), which introduced the ODFW ID number as a replacement for the previous Hunter/Angler ID number. While the name has changed, the purpose and format of the number remain the same.
Where to Find Your ODFW ID Number
There are several ways to locate your ODFW ID number:
1. Check Your Current License or Tag
The easiest way to find your ODFW ID number is to look at your current hunting or fishing license, or any tags you have purchased. The number is clearly printed on these documents and will be labeled as either “ODFW ID” or “Hunter/Angler ID”.
2. Use an Old License or Tag
If you no longer have your current license or tags, you can use an old one to find your ODFW ID number. This number remains the same from year to year, so even an expired license or tag will have the correct information.
3. Contact ODFW Licensing
If you don’t have access to any of your licenses or tags, you can contact ODFW Licensing directly at 503-947-6101. Provide them with your name, date of birth, and any other identifying information, and they will be able to look up your ODFW ID number for you.
Verifying Your ODFW Account
In addition to finding your ODFW ID number, it’s important to verify your account in the new electronic licensing system. This ensures that your information is up to date and that you can access your account easily.
To verify your account, visit the ODFW licensing website and use the “Verify/Lookup Account” feature. You’ll need to provide your last name, date of birth, and one of the following pieces of information:
1. ODFW ID number (from your 2023 or prior license)
2. Phone number associated with your account
3. Email address associated with your account
Once you’ve verified your account, you’ll be able to log in and manage your licenses, tags, and other account information.
Using Your ODFW ID Number
Your ODFW ID number is essential for a variety of tasks related to hunting and fishing in Oregon. Here are some of the most common uses:
1. Purchasing Licenses and Tags
When you purchase a hunting or fishing license, or any tags, you’ll need to provide your ODFW ID number. This ensures that your purchase is linked to your account and that your preferences and certifications are applied correctly.
2. Submitting Harvest Reports
If you’re a big game hunter or a salmon/steelhead angler, you’re required to submit harvest reports to ODFW. When you do this, you’ll need to provide your ODFW ID number to ensure that your report is associated with your account.
3. Maintaining Certifications and Preferences
If you have any special certifications or preferences, such as a Pioneer license, a disabilities permit, or big game preference points, your ODFW ID number is used to track and maintain these in your account.
In conclusion, your ODFW ID number is a crucial piece of information for any hunter or angler in Oregon. By understanding what it is, where to find it, and how to use it, you can ensure that your outdoor adventures are smooth and compliant with ODFW regulations. Whether you’re purchasing licenses, submitting harvest reports, or maintaining your account, your ODFW ID number will be an essential tool in your kit.