How to apply for Georgia Discounted Disability Hunting & Fishing License (Disabled Veterans)

Who it's for

Georgia residents with a permanent and total disability rating from the VA can get a deeply discounted hunting and fishing license from the Department of Natural Resources. The Sportsman's Disability License costs $5 a year or $15 for three years (plus a $3 transaction fee) and includes all state-paid hunting and fishing privileges — hunting, big game, migratory bird stamp, and both freshwater and saltwater fishing. A regular sportsman's license costs far more, so the discount adds up for anyone who hunts or fishes every year. The license cannot be bought online: mail the application form with the VA benefit letter and proof of Georgia residency. Separately, veterans discharged on or after July 1, 2005 can get a free one-time, one-year sportsman's license.

What you'll need

• VA Benefit Summary Letter showing the permanent and total disability rating
• Proof of Georgia residency (Georgia driver's license or official Georgia ID)
• Completed disability license application form (mailed — this license cannot be obtained online)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about Georgia Discounted Disability Hunting & Fishing License (Disabled Veterans). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need va benefit summary letter showing the permanent and total disability rating, proof of georgia residency (georgia driver's license or official georgia id), completed disability license application form (mailed — this license cannot be obtained online) — is anything else required? What is the best next step?”

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Confirm eligibility by checking that you have a permanent and total disability rating from the VA. Note that veterans rated below 100% may not qualify. If you are a Georgia resident born before July 1, 1952, you may already qualify for a free senior lifetime license — call the Wildlife Resources Division at 800-366-2661 to find out which option is best for you.
2. Gather your required documents: your VA Benefit Summary Letter showing your permanent and total disability rating, and a Georgia driver's license or official Georgia ID as proof of residency.
3. Download or request the disability license application form. This license cannot be purchased online, so you must use the mail-in application.
4. Complete the application form fully and legibly before mailing it.
5. Mail the completed application form along with your VA Benefit Summary Letter and your proof of Georgia residency to the Wildlife Resources Division. If you have questions before mailing, call 800-366-2661.
6. Choose your license term when completing the form — a one-year or three-year license is available. A transaction fee applies in addition to the license cost.

What to expect: After your mailed application is received and reviewed, the Wildlife Resources Division will process your Sportsman's Disability License. Processing times vary, so contact the agency at 800-366-2661 for an estimate if needed. Once approved, your license covers all state-paid hunting and fishing privileges, including big game, migratory bird stamp, and both freshwater and saltwater fishing. When your license term ends, you will need to re-apply by mail with current proof of your disability rating and Georgia residency to keep your coverage active. Also note: if you are a veteran discharged on or after July 1, 2005, you may separately qualify for a free one-time, one-year sportsman's license — ask the agency about this when you call.

Renewals

annual or 3-year license terms; re-apply by mail with proof