Official Site of The State of New Jersey
Licenses &
Permits
Beginning October 15, 2024 obtaining a NJ Saltwater Registration requires the completion of a Child Support Certification Form. This is a legislative requirement and has been required when purchasing hunting and freshwater fishing licenses for years.
For more information please visit the NJ Child Support Certification Requirement Information page.
We issue licenses, stamps, and permits for hunting, fishing, and trapping within the state. Purchase licenses and permits online or at license agents. We also issue other permits such as scientific holding and collecting permits, exotic and nongame wildlife permits, zoological permits and special use permits for Wildlife Management Areas.
Buy a hunting or fishing license:
Freshwater Fishing
Anyone 16 years and older must have a valid license to fish NJ’s freshwaters with a handline, rod and line or bow and arrow. A Boat Ramp Maintenance Permit is needed for launching watercraft on certain WMAs.
Hunting and Trapping
Anyone 10 years and older must have a valid license to hunt or trap in New Jersey. Some hunting seasons also require a permit.
Saltwater Recreational and Commercial Fishing
Saltwater anglers 16 years and older must register online with the New Jersey Saltwater Recreational Registry Program. Saltwater commercial marine permits are required for commercial activities such as crab dredge licenses, commercial crab, lobster, fish and conch licenses, and bait net licenses.
Other Permits
Various other permits are required for possession of exotic and nongame wildlife, captive game, and use of Wildlife Management Areas for activities such as horseback riding.
