If you’re a disabled veteran living in South Carolina and love to fish, you may be eligible for a free fishing license. In 2024, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) offers free disability hunting and fishing licenses to residents who have been declared disabled and are receiving benefits from certain agencies.
Eligibility Requirements for a Free Disability License in South Carolina
To qualify for a free disability hunting and fishing license in South Carolina, you must meet the following criteria:
Be a resident of South Carolina for at least 365 days
Have been declared disabled and are receiving disability benefits from one of the following agencies:
Social Security Administration
US Department of Veterans Affairs
SC Retirement System
Federal Civil Service
Railroad Retirement Board
Medicaid
If you are paraplegic or quadriplegic and include a statement from your doctor, you will be issued a Lifetime Disability License.
Types of Free Disability Licenses Available
The SCDNR offers two types of free disability licenses:
Combination License: This license is valid for Freshwater Fishing, Saltwater Fishing, State Hunting, Big Game, Wildlife Management Areas, and the Migratory Waterfowl Permit.
Fishing License: This license is valid for Freshwater and Saltwater Fishing only.
Both types of licenses are valid for 3 years from the date of issue.
How to Apply for a Free Disability License in South Carolina
To apply for a free disability hunting and fishing license in South Carolina, follow these steps:
Email [email protected] with your name and telephone number to request an application and directions to apply for a disability license.
You will receive an encrypted email from SCDNR. Download the attachment, enter the one-time passcode, and click continue.
Reply to the email with your completed disability application and necessary documentation, such as a photocopy of your unexpired SC Driver’s License or SCDMV issued ID Card, and a current copy of your disability certification from one of the eligible agencies.
If you are paraplegic, quadriplegic, or legally blind, include an official statement from your physician or documentation certifying your condition.
Click “Send” to securely transmit your application to SCDNR for processing. Your license will be mailed to the address provided on the application.
If you have any problems with the application process, you can contact SCDNR at 803-734-3833.
Additional Benefits for Disabled Veterans in South Carolina
In addition to the free disability hunting and fishing license, South Carolina offers several other benefits for disabled veterans:
Free Hunting & Fishing Licenses: Totally disabled veterans can get a free hunting/fishing license.
State Parks Reduced Rates: South Carolina residents who are permanently and totally disabled veterans may enter any state park at a reduced rate upon presentation of supporting disability documentation.
Special License Plates: The S.C. Department of Public Safety may issue special motor vehicle license plates to disabled veterans.
Property Tax Exemption: The dwelling house in which a permanently and totally disabled veteran resides may be tax exempt.
These benefits are just a few examples of the support available to disabled veterans in South Carolina. It’s important for veterans to research and take advantage of the resources and assistance they are entitled to receive.