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.

A woman buys her hunting license from a local license dealer before going turkey hunter.

License news & important dates

A deer hunter looks out over a burned forest ridge using binoculars
Hunt Washington: a guide to getting started

Hunting is a vital way of life for many people in Washington, and it contributes to important statewide conservation efforts. There are a variety of hunting opportunities for seasoned and first-time hunters alike.

A herd of elk wades across the Dosewallips River.
Hunters: help reduce the prevalence of elk hoof disease

WDFW is offering an exclusive special permit draw opportunity to Western Washington general season and most special permit hunters who submit elk harvest samples.

Conservation starts here

A large black-tailed deer buck standing in a grassy clearing near a younger antlerless deer.
Visit myWDFW.com for tips, tricks, and the latest opportunities

This WDFW website is your one-stop shop for fishing and hunting how-to information, licenses, and agency promotions, all in the spirit of getting you and yours outdoors.

Elk license plate
Show your support for Washington wildlife

Looking for an easy way to help wildlife in Washington? Personalized plates and any of our six specialized license plates support wildlife conservation, viewing, and management in the state.

"The Get Outdoors package" lettering appears in black over a background of green mountains and conifer trees.
Cover the water and the field with the Get Outdoors package

The Get Outdoors license package is your one-stop shop for fishing and hunting that gets you ready for anything and does it at a savings.