Rhode Island Hunting License

How Do I Get My State Hunting License?

Depending on your age, you may be required to have the Hunter Education Certificate in order to legally buy a license or permit to hunt.

1. Complete the Rhode Island hunter education certification requirements.
2. Choose the correct license type.
3. Buy the license through the Rhode Island Division of Fish & Wildlife office or a Rhode Island–approved vendor.

Types of Rhode Island Hunting Licenses

Rhode Island Resident

A resident is a person who has lived in Rhode Island for at least six months.

All Rhode Island residents must have a resident hunting license. Additional permits may be required.

Non-Resident

All non-residents must have a non-resident hunting license. Additional permits may be required.

Youth Hunting License

Rhode Island residents and non-residents ages 12 to 14 may purchase the Junior Hunting License. They must hunt in the immediate company of a licensed hunter age 21 or older.

Senior Hunting License

Rhode Island residents age 65 or older may apply for the free Permanent Resident Combination License.

Disability License

Hunters who are 100% permanently disabled may be eligible for the free lifetime 100% Permanent Disability Fishing/Combination License. Visit the Rhode Island Division of Fish & Wildlife website for more details.

Military and Veteran License

Any active-duty military member may purchase the Resident and Non-Resident Active Military Personnel License at the resident rate.

Veterans (Rhode Island residents and non-residents) who have 100% disability may be eligible for the free lifetime 100% Permanent Disability Fishing/Combination License.

Visit the Rhode Island Division of Fish & Wildlife website for more information about military and veteran licenses.

Migratory Waterfowl Requirements

All hunters age 16 or older must purchase the Rhode Island State Waterfowl Stamp and the Federal Duck Stamp when hunting migratory waterfowl. In addition, hunters are required to have proof of their participation in the Harvest Information Program (HIP).

License Expiration

Hunting licenses expire on the last day of February each year.

Where to Buy a Rhode Island Hunting License

• Visit the Rhode Island Division of Fish & Wildlife office, a city or town hall, or an approved license vendor.
• Mail in a paper application.