The Department of Natural Resource's long-awaited electronic licensing system is set to launch June 9.
Recreators will be able to purchase fishing and hunting licenses on the new DNR Licensing app. You’ll still be able to buy a license online or in-person, and you can still carry a physical license if you prefer.
Under the new system, you won’t need physical durable harvest tags, though paper will still be an option. The new app will allow hunters, trappers and anglers to validate a harvest even while offline or out of service, and then you can complete registration when you reconnect.
The new electronic system will replace the licensing system the state has used for more than 25 years.
“The Minnesota DNR is excited to introduce a modern licensing system designed to improve the experience for Minnesotans and visitors alike,” said DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen in a news release. “Whether purchasing a license, permit, or registration, users will be able to enjoy hunting, fishing, and other outdoor opportunities more quickly through convenient, flexible, and user-friendly tools.”
Fishing license sales will be paused from midnight Tuesday, June 2, until 11:59 p.m. Monday, June 8, as the DNR transitions between systems. During that time, anglers can fish without a license, though all regulations and bag limits remain in effect.
When the new system launches, the DNR said there will be plenty of staff on hand to help users transition.
Phase two of the new system will include recreational vehicle and watercraft titles and registration. Until that rollout, the current process will stay in place.
Find more information about what to expect on the DNR's website.
