How to apply for Indiana Disabled Veteran Hunting & Fishing License ($2.75 a Year)

Who it's for

Indiana residents who served in the armed forces and have a service-connected disability can buy a special license that covers both fishing and small game hunting for $2.75 a year, or $27.50 for ten years. A regular resident would pay far more for the same coverage each year. Stamps (like trout or gamebird stamps) still cost the regular price. Apply once with State Form 50833 and the VA file number; after the Indiana Department of Veterans' Affairs certifies the application, renewals can be purchased online or at license vendors. Veterans eligible for a Disabled Hoosier Veteran license plate can also buy the Golden Hoosier Passport — a year of unlimited admission to Indiana state parks — for $25.

What you'll need

• Completed State Form 50833 (Disabled Veteran License application) with the USDVA file number
• Payment and a self-addressed stamped envelope (for mail applications to the DNR Customer Service Center)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about Indiana Disabled Veteran Hunting & Fishing License ($2.75 a Year). 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 completed state form 50833 (disabled veteran license application) with the usdva file number, payment and a self-addressed stamped envelope (for mail applications to the dnr customer service center) — 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. Gather your documents before you start. You will need your completed State Form 50833 (Disabled Veteran License application) and your USDVA file number.
2. Note your eligibility. Any documented service-connected disability qualifies — the VA rating does not need to be 10% or higher. Veterans with disability retirement benefits administered by the Department of Defense also qualify.
3. Choose how to apply. Submit your application online or call the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at 317-232-4200. If mailing, include a self-addressed stamped envelope along with your completed form and payment, and send it to the DNR Customer Service Center.
4. Pay the license fee. Choose a one-year license ($2.75) or a ten-year license ($27.50). Note that stamps such as trout or gamebird stamps are still sold at the regular price.
5. Wait for certification. The Indiana Department of Veterans' Affairs reviews and certifies your application. Processing times vary — contact the DNR at 317-232-4200 for an estimate.
6. Ask about the Golden Hoosier Passport if you are also eligible for a Disabled Hoosier Veteran license plate. This optional add-on provides one year of unlimited admission to Indiana state parks for $25.

What to expect: After your application is certified by the Indiana Department of Veterans' Affairs, you will receive your combined hunting and fishing license. Once certified, future renewals are easy — you can purchase them online or at license vendors without resubmitting State Form 50833. If you chose the one-year license, plan to renew each year at $2.75; if you chose the ten-year license, you are covered for a full decade at $27.50. Processing times vary, so contact the DNR at 317-232-4200 if you have questions about the status of your application.

Renewals

annual license ($2.75) or 10-year license ($27.50); renewals available online once certified