Benefits · Supportive Services
How to apply for Illinois Free Hunting and Fishing Licenses for Disabled Veterans
Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), with the Disability Affidavit issued by the Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs (IDVA)
Who it's for
Illinois provides fishing and hunting licenses free of charge to veterans who receive VA compensation for a service-connected disability of 10% or greater, or a VA pension for total disability. The benefit applies regardless of the veteran's state of residency. To use it, get a Disability Affidavit (the Illinois Hunting and Fishing Privilege card) through a local IDVA Veteran Service Office — bring the DD-214 and current verification of VA compensation or pension. Veterans who do not meet the disability threshold can still buy Illinois resident hunting and fishing licenses at half the regular fee.
The free-license benefit requires VA compensation of 10% or greater for a service-connected disability, or a total-disability pension — it also covers veterans who live outside Illinois. Hunting permits (such as deer or turkey permits) still go through the normal permit application process. Veterans below the threshold qualify for half-fee resident licenses with a DD-214 and photo ID.
What you'll need
- DD-214 (Certificate of Discharge)
- Current verification of VA compensation or pension
- Disability Affidavit (Illinois Hunting and Fishing Privilege card) issued by IDVA — request it through a local Veteran Service Office
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
Renewals
licenses run by license year — keep the IDVA Disability Affidavit available as proof
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.