How to apply for Michigan Free Hunting and Fishing Licenses for 100% Disabled Veterans

Who it's for

Michigan resident veterans who are 100% permanently and totally disabled from military service — or rated individually unemployable by the VA — receive DNR hunting and fishing licenses at no cost. The benefit covers all regular (non-lottery) hunting and fishing licenses, so an all-species fishing license or a deer license costs nothing. Carry VA documentation of the qualifying status when buying licenses and while hunting or fishing. Licenses renew each license year with the same proof.

What you'll need

• VA documentation showing 100% permanent-and-total status or individual unemployability (carry it when buying licenses and while afield)
• Proof of Michigan residency (driver's license or state ID)

Where to apply

Step by step

1. Confirm you meet the eligibility requirements: you must be a Michigan resident and a veteran rated by the VA as 100% permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected disability, or rated as individually unemployable. Note that lottery-drawn licenses are not included in this benefit.
2. Gather your required documents: VA documentation showing your 100% permanent-and-total status or individual-unemployability rating, plus proof of Michigan residency such as a Michigan driver's license or state ID.
3. Apply online through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to receive your free hunting and fishing licenses.
4. After receiving your licenses, carry your VA documentation with you whenever you are buying licenses and whenever you are hunting or fishing — this is required by law.
5. Renew your free licenses each license year by showing your VA proof again at the time of renewal.

What to expect: After applying online through the Michigan DNR, you will receive your free hunting and fishing licenses covering all regular (non-lottery) license types — such as an all-species fishing license or a deer license. Processing times can vary, so contact the Michigan DNR directly if you need a time estimate. Remember that this benefit renews annually: each new license year, you will need to show your VA documentation again to continue receiving free licenses. Keep your VA paperwork on hand not just at the time of purchase, but also while you are out hunting or fishing.

Renewals

annual — show VA proof each license year