Active-Duty Hunting/Fishing License Exemption
SD resident service members on active duty stationed outside SD are exempt from hunting/fishing license requirements.
State BenefitSouth DakotaRecreation & Parks
Verified September 30, 2026 against gfp.sd.gov
At a glance
- Benefit type
- Recreation & Parks — South Dakota
- Who it's for
- Active Duty
- VA rating needed
- No rating requirement
- Where it applies
- South Dakota
- Last verified
- September 30, 2026
What is Active-Duty Hunting/Fishing License Exemption?
Active-Duty Hunting/Fishing License Exemption is a South Dakota recreation & parks benefit for active duty. SD resident service members on active duty stationed outside SD are exempt from hunting/fishing license requirements.
Who qualifies
- Active Duty
- Through veteran sponsor (any rating)
- South Dakota residency
Who is eligible
Eligibility
SD resident currently on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces, stationed outside SD per current orders. Per SDCL 41-6-16.2. Must carry current orders and military ID while hunting or fishing. Federal migratory bird stamp and migratory bird certification permit still required. Does NOT apply to members of the armed forces reserve or National Guard on active duty for training.
What Active-Duty Hunting/Fishing License Exemption covers
Covers
Exemption from needing a license to fish or hunt small game.
Estimated value
Saves the cost of annual hunting/fishing licenses.
Verified information & sources
- Last verified
- September 30, 2026
- Official source
- gfp.sd.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.
How VetUnlock verifies benefitsFrequently asked questions about Active-Duty Hunting/Fishing License Exemption
Who qualifies for Active-Duty Hunting/Fishing License Exemption?
Active-Duty Hunting/Fishing License Exemption is for Active Duty; Through veteran sponsor (any rating); south dakota residency. See the eligibility details on this page and confirm with the official source before applying.
How do I apply for Active-Duty Hunting/Fishing License Exemption?
Apply through the official source linked on this page. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.
Where can I verify Active-Duty Hunting/Fishing License Exemption?
Benefit rules and dollar amounts change, so always confirm current details at the official source linked on this page. A free, accredited county or state Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can also verify your eligibility and help you apply.
Other South Dakota Recreation & Parks
- Reduced-Fee Hunting and Fishing License (40%+ Disability)$10 for four-year licenseFour-year combined small game hunting and fishing license for $10 for veterans with 40%+ disability.
- Disabled Veteran/POW/Purple Heart Lifetime State Park Entrance LicenseFree lifetime park entrance + 50% off campingFree lifetime State Park entrance and 50% discount on camping for 100% disabled veterans, POWs, and Purple Heart recipients.