Licenses & Permits

With stunning vistas, old-growth forests, and abundant wildlife, Washington is home to plenty of world-famous wild spaces. Whether fishing, hunting, or just getting outside for the weekend, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife helps thousands make the most of this amazing state every year. Find the hunting and fishing license that fits your adventure, see what you need to access state-managed lands and water access sites, and learn about the necessary permits for construction projects that may affect wildlife or habitats.

Clamming crowds at Copalis Beach

In this section

Fishing and shellfishing licenses
Learn about the types, costs, and requirements of fishing and shellfishing licenses offered by WDFW
Hunting licenses
Learn about the types of hunting licenses offered in Washington, and what you need before you head into the field.
Construction and environmental permits
WDFW issues permits and licenses for a number of projects around Washington.
Parking and access passes
Buy a Discover Pass online for access to WDFW, DNR, and state park lands in Washington, and learn about WDFW's Vehicle Access Pass.
License plates
Personalized license plates and and wildlife license plates fund conservation efforts throughout Washington.
License dealers
Search for authorized WDFW license sales locations near you.
Commercial licensing
Requirements and license fees for commercial fishing and shellfishing, guiding and charter operations, and other fish- and wildlife-related activities.
Roadkill salvage permit
To prevent deer and elk killed on Washington roads from going to waste, WDFW allows people to legally salvage carcasses with a free, printable permit.
Buy a license
Report your harvest
Report a violation

License news & important dates

Winter run steelhead
Catch record cards due April 30

Catch record cards are an important management tool for estimating the recreational catch of salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, halibut and Puget Sound Dungeness crab. 

About catch record cards
Aquatic invasive species check station
Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Permits

Operators of certain aircraft and watercraft, as well as commercial transporters of specified vessel types, must purchase permits to help the department's efforts in preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species.

More about AIS prevention permits
More news