How to Get a N.J. Fishing License

Make sure you have a fishing license.

The state of New Jersey requires a fishing license for anyone fishing in the state who is over the age of 16 and under the age of 70. This includes fishing in privately owned lakes or streams. Children under 16 do not need a license. Residents over 70 years old need only provide their driver's license as proof of age. No license is required. If you are fishing for trout, you also need to purchase a trout stamp for your license.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Driver's license

1. Go to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's Division of Fish and Wildlife website.

2. Choose the way you want to be identified. Choose from driver's license number, Social Security number, DFW Conservation ID number or an alternate ID.

3. Enter your chosen identification number. Click "Continue."

4. Choose if you are a resident, non-resident or active duty military. To be considered a resident, you must have lived in New Jersey for at least six months.

5. If you chose non-resident, click on whether you are a U.S citizen or a non-citizen. Answer the question about whether your legal residence is in the United States.

6. Enter your personal information, including name, address, phone number and personal identifying characteristics, such as height, weight and hair and eye color.

7. Choose what you wish to do from the menu at the bottom of the page.

8. Choose the license you want to purchase and any stamps you want to add to the license.

9. Add your payment information.

10. Print out the PDF file containing your license. You can save this file so you can reprint your license, if needed.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're not comfortable getting a NJ Fishing License online, you can go to an agent and buy your license in person. Check the Division of Fish and Wildlife's website for a list of licensing agents near you.

References

• NJDEP Division of Fish & Wildlife: NJ License and Permit Information