How to Get a Fishing License in Illinois
Illinois has more than 1.5 million acres of water available for fishing that includes Lake Michigan and its smaller lakes, rivers and ponds. Except under special circumstances, such as if the water is on your property, you will need a license to enjoy angling any of these waters. Read on to learn how to get a fishing license in Illinois.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Get your credit card or checkbook and your driver's license or social security number ready. Go to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website and click on "Purchase a Fishing or Hunting License."
-
2
Select any one of the "DNR Direct Licensing and Sales" options, and on the next screen, choose "Begin License/Permit Purchase" below the title "Purchase a Hunting and/or Fishing License."
-
-
3
Select "Yes" on the next screen if you are an Illinois resident. Enter your Department of Natural Resources customer number or your Illinois driver's license number or your social security number and date of birth, and proceed to the next screen.
-
4
Select "No" if you're not an Illinois resident, and then click "Yes" or "No" depending on whether or not you are a U.S. citizen. Input the appropriate information for your status and proceed to the next screen.
-
5
Complete the next form with your name, address and shipping information, and click "Continue" at the bottom of the screen.
-
6
Select the type of license you want from the next list. Click "Done Selecting Privileges" when you are finished, and the system will suggest additional privileges it thinks you might want. Click "Yes" if you want the additional privileges or "Cancel" if you do not want them.
-
7
Complete the transaction with your credit card or checking account information on the next screen.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
You don't need a license to fish in Illinois if you are under 16, legally disabled or blind or on active duty in the Armed Forces (if you entered active duty as a resident of Illinois).
