1. Determine Your License Type: Decide which hunting license you need (e.g., resident, non-resident, junior, lifetime).
2. Complete Hunter Education Certification: If you’re a first-time applicant, complete a hunter safety course and obtain your certification.
3. Choose Application Method: Decide whether to apply online or in person:
Online:
• Visit the Rhode Island Hunting and Fishing Licensing Portal.
• Create an account or log in.
• Provide your hunter education certification and residency documentation if required.
• Select your license type and any additional permits (e.g., deer tags).
• Pay the fees online.
• Print your license immediately.
In Person:
• Visit an authorized vendor or the Division of Fish and Wildlife office.
• Bring necessary documents (hunter education certification, proof of residency, etc.).
• Pay fees via cash, credit, or check.
• Receive your license on the spot.
4. Select Additional Permits or Tags: If needed, add permits such as turkey or deer tags during the application.
5. Pay the Fees: Fees vary by license type (resident, non-resident, junior, or lifetime).
6. Print or Receive Your License: Online applicants can print the license immediately, while in-person applicants receive it from the vendor.
7. Reprint If Necessary: Reprint your license for free by logging into the online portal.
Fees for Different Types of Hunting Licenses
Rhode Island offers various hunting licenses to accommodate different needs.
The fees for these licenses are as follows:
• Resident Hunting License: $18.00
• Non-Resident Hunting License: $45.00
• Junior Hunting License (for hunters aged 12-14):
• 365-Day License (valid for one year from the date of purchase):
• Short-Term Hunting Licenses: Not currently offered in Rhode Island.
• Lifetime Hunting Licenses: Costs vary based on age and residency status.
• Duplicate License Fee: $5.50
Additional permits, such as deer or turkey tags, may require separate fees.
How to Obtain a Hunting License Online
Rhode Island’s Division of Fish and Wildlife offers a convenient online system to apply for and purchase hunting licenses. Here’s how to do it:
1. Visit the Rhode Island Hunting and Fishing Licensing Portal: Go to the official eRegulations website or the Rhode Island Division of Fish and Wildlife’s licensing portal.
2. Create an Account: New users need to create an account by providing personal information such as name, address, date of birth, and residency status.
3. Provide Hunter Education Certification: Upload proof of completion for a hunter safety course if you are a first-time applicant.
4. Select the License Type: Choose the appropriate hunting license based on your needs (e.g., resident, non-resident, junior, lifetime).
5. Add Additional Permits or Tags: If applicable, select additional permits, such as deer or turkey tags.
6. Make Payment: Use a credit or debit card to pay the associated fees.
6. Print Your License: Once your application is complete, you can print your hunting license immediately.
Purchasing Your License Online
When purchasing your license online, ensure you have the following:
• A valid email address.
• A credit or debit card for payment.
• Proof of hunter education certification (if required).
• Residency documentation (if applying for a resident license).
The online system is user-friendly and allows you to access your license anytime for reprinting.
Purchasing Your License In Person
For those who prefer an in-person experience, hunting licenses can be purchased at authorized vendors or at Rhode Island’s Division of Fish and Wildlife offices. Follow these steps:
1. Locate an Authorized Vendor: Authorized vendors include sporting goods stores, bait shops, and select retail locations.
2. Provide Required Documentation: Bring proof of residency (if applicable) and your hunter education certification.
3. Choose the Appropriate License: Specify whether you’re purchasing a standard, junior, or lifetime license.
4. Pay the Fees: Payment can usually be made with cash, credit card, or check.
5. Receive Your License: The vendor will issue your license immediately.
Details About 365-Day Hunting Licenses
Rhode Island’s 365-Day Hunting License is valid for one year from the date of purchase rather than following the traditional calendar year. This provides flexibility for hunters, ensuring they get full value regardless of when they purchase their license.
Short-Term Hunting Licenses
As of now, Rhode Island does not offer short-term hunting licenses. Hunters are encouraged to explore the 365-day license for maximum flexibility.
Lifetime Hunting Licenses
Lifetime hunting licenses allow hunters to pay a one-time fee and enjoy hunting privileges for life. The cost varies based on age and residency:
• Residents Under 2 Years Old: $44.00
• Residents Aged 2-15: $150.00
• Residents Aged 16-39: $440.00
• Residents Aged 40-59: $308.00
• Residents Aged 60 and Older: $44.00
Non-residents are typically not eligible for lifetime licenses in Rhode Island.
Duplicate Fees
If you lose your hunting license, you can obtain a duplicate for $5.50. Duplicates are available online or at authorized vendors. You’ll need to provide identification and details about your original license.
Disabled Veteran Hunting License
Rhode Island offers free hunting licenses to disabled veterans. Eligible individuals must provide proof of a 100% disability rating from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Applications can be submitted online or in person.
Recovering Service Member Hunting License
Recovering service members are also eligible for free hunting licenses. Documentation verifying their status must be submitted along with the application.
How to Apply for a Reduced-Fee Hunting License for Low-Income Seniors
Low-income seniors (aged 65 and older) may qualify for a reduced-fee hunting license. To apply:
1. Verify Eligibility: Provide proof of age and income eligibility (e.g., tax documents, Social Security benefits).
2. Submit an Application: Complete the application form available on the Rhode Island Division of Fish and Wildlife website.
3. Pay the Reduced Fee: Fees for reduced-fee licenses are significantly lower than standard rates.
4. Receive Your License: Once approved, your license will be issued.
SOURCE LINK : U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Free Hunting Licenses
Certain groups are eligible for free hunting licenses in Rhode Island. These include:
• Disabled veterans
• Recovering service members
• Low-income seniors (age restrictions apply)
How to Apply for a Free Hunting License
To apply for a free hunting license:
1. Gather Documentation: Collect the necessary paperwork to prove your eligibility (e.g., disability certification, military service documents, or proof of income).
2. Submit an Application: Applications can be submitted online or at an authorized vendor.
3. Approval Process: Once your application is reviewed and approved, your free license will be issued.
Reprinting Your License
If you need to reprint your hunting license, you can do so online at no additional cost. Simply log into your account on the Rhode Island Hunting and Fishing Licensing Portal and access your license for reprinting.
Purchasing a Lifetime License
The process for purchasing a lifetime license is similar to obtaining other licenses but requires additional documentation. Here’s how to apply:
1. Verify Eligibility: Ensure you meet the residency and age requirements.
2. Submit an Application: Fill out the lifetime license application available on the Division of Fish and Wildlife website.
3. Provide Payment: Pay the one-time fee based on your age.
4. Receive Your License: Once processed, your lifetime license will be mailed to you.
Residency Information
To qualify for a resident hunting license in Rhode Island, you must meet one of the following criteria:
• Have a legal domicile in Rhode Island for at least six months.
• Be a full-time student attending an institution in Rhode Island.
• Be an active-duty member of the U.S. Armed Forces stationed in Rhode Island.
You may need to provide proof of residency, such as a driver’s license, utility bill, or lease agreement.
By following these steps and guidelines, you can easily obtain the hunting license that best suits your needs in Rhode Island. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the state’s hunting regulations and safety requirements to ensure a safe and enjoyable hunting experience.
