Licenses & Permits

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.

One brother holds a large trout while the other looks on

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 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

A family shows off their Dungeness crab catch
Get set up to Fish Washington

The Fish Washington combination package is an all-in-one fishing license that includes freshwater, saltwater, and shellfish and seaweed licenses; two-pole and Puget Sound Dungeness crab endorsements; and a range of catch record cards.

Get yours today
deer in a field
Chronic wasting disease surveillance program

WDFW is testing road-killed deer for Chronic Wasting Disease in a proactive effort to fight the disease.

Learn more
More news

Conservation starts here

Elk hoof disease incentive permits
WDFW is starting a pilot program to evaluate the how hunters can help reduce the prevalence of elk hoof disease.
Help us with elk conservation
Washington wildlife license plate features an elk
Show your support for Washington wildlife
Looking for an easy way to help wildlife in Washington? There are two types of specialized license plates that support wildlife conservation and management in the state.
Learn more
A man in fatigues in a wheelchair hugs a young girl
Help support disabled veterans
You can donate money to help offset the cost of disabled veterans’ hunting and fishing licenses.
Learn more