TPWD Adds ID Requirement for Hunting, Fishing Licenses

If you are a hunter or fisher in the state of Texas and you need a license or it's time to renew, brace yourself because the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has made some changes when it comes to getting a new license to hunt or fish in the Lone Star State.

Why TPWD Changed the ID Requirements

According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the main reasons for these changes were to prevent fraud and misrepresentation by ensuring that only Texas residents receive resident licenses and pricing. The second reason was to support law enforcement in the field by making sure that the identification required to be in a person's immediate possession while hunting or fishing is also verified at the point of sale.

When the New Rules Take Effect

On March 26, the TPW Commission adopted a new rule for proof of residency and identification requirements. As of Monday, August 3, anyone over the age of 17 will need to provide valid proof of identification to obtain a hunting or fishing license in Texas. These new rules apply to residents of Texas and to residents of other states who wish to hunt or fish in Texas.

What ID You Need as a Texas Resident

An unexpired driver's license or identification certificate issued by the Texas DPS.

What Non-Residents and Foreign Visitors Need

Non-residents have to provide a REAL ID, or a non-REAL ID with the following:
- Original US birth certificate
- Original US birth certificate abroad document (FS-240, DS-1350, FS-545)
- Unexpired US passport or passport card
- Unexpired US military ID

Temporary IDs may be accepted, but additional documentation will be required.
- Original US birth certificate
- Original US birth certificate abroad document (FS-240, DS-1350, FS-545)
- Unexpired Texas Handgun License (Texas residents only)
- Unexpired US passport or passport card
- Unexpired US military ID
Foreign residents will have to present an unexpired passport, unexpired visa, or permanent resident card.

Those who cannot provide the above will not be able to acquire or renew their hunting or fishing licenses.

How to Buy Your License Online

If you are purchasing your license online, you will have an extra verification step to follow. Visit the TPWD website, create or access your customer account, choose your license type and whether you want it digital or printed, and complete the new ID verification process. Then make your payment, and you're set.

If you are purchasing a license at a license retailer, make sure you have a form for the above IDs with you to purchase your new license.

Licenses for the 2026-2027 season go on sale on August 15, 2026. Happy hunting and fishing.

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