Reduced-Fee Hunting & Fishing License
$5 for the first license per calendar year for veterans with 40%+ VA disability — subsequent license types free in the same calendar year.
At a glance
- Benefit type
- Recreation & Parks — New York
- Who it's for
- Veterans
- VA rating needed
- 40% or higher
- Estimated value
- $5/year (first license; others free)
- Where it applies
- New York
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
What is Reduced-Fee Hunting & Fishing License?
Reduced-Fee Hunting & Fishing License is a New York recreation & parks benefit for veterans. $5 for the first license per calendar year for veterans with 40%+ VA disability — subsequent license types free in the same calendar year. Requires 40%+ VA disability rating. The listed value is $5/year (first license; others free).
Who qualifies
- Requires 40%+ VA disability rating
- New York residency
Who is eligible
Eligibility
New York State resident veteran with a VA service-connected disability rating of 40% or higher.
What Reduced-Fee Hunting & Fishing License covers
Covers
$5 for the first license purchase (any of fishing, hunting, or trapping) per calendar year. Subsequent purchases of the OTHER license types within the same calendar year are FREE. Covers big game, small game, all freshwater fishing. Free bowhunting and muzzleloading privileges and Deer Management Permit preference are also included.
Renewal
Each calendar year requires a new $5 first purchase.
Important to know
VA letter with case number stating 40%+ SC disability is required.
How to apply for Reduced-Fee Hunting & Fishing License
How to apply
Apply at any location that sells New York hunting and fishing licenses, or through the New York State DEC (Department of Environmental Conservation) website at dec.ny.gov.
Verified information & sources
Last verified: May 12, 2026
Official source: dec.ny.gov
Compiled and fact-checked against the official source linked above. Benefit rules and dollar amounts change over time — always confirm current details at the official source before applying. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) is a free, accredited advocate who can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.
Frequently asked questions about Reduced-Fee Hunting & Fishing License
Who qualifies for Reduced-Fee Hunting & Fishing License?▾
What VA disability rating do I need for Reduced-Fee Hunting & Fishing License?▾
How much is Reduced-Fee Hunting & Fishing License worth?▾
How do I apply for Reduced-Fee Hunting & Fishing License?▾
Where can I verify Reduced-Fee Hunting & Fishing License?▾
Other New York Recreation & Parks
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