New licensing system coming in 2025

The DNR plans to launch a new electronic license system, which will include a mobile phone app, in spring 2025.

The ELS is the primary system that issues angling and hunting licenses and permits to residents of Minnesota and other states. It also registers and titles outdoor recreation equipment, including watercraft and off-highway vehicles.

The new, modern system will make it easier for customers to buy licenses, register their harvests and sign up for safety training. It also will improve the business process for agents, registrars and DNR staff.


Sign up for updates on the new license system 

What to expect

License, permits and lottery preference

In 2025, Minnesota will have more ways to buy hunting and fishing licenses. Most licenses will be available in both digital or print-at-home formats. Depending on your purchase option, you will download your license to your smart phone or print it. We will still have license agents to sell licenses, too. With the updated system, you will be able to check your account including lottery preference points.

Online and mobile

In 2025, Minnesota will move to mobile and online systems for hunting and fishing licenses and permits so you can buy them online and download them right away. You also can print your license on plain paper. A free mobile application will be available to allow you to validate and register your harvest even if you are offline or out of service. You will still be able to register your harvest at agent locations as well.

Print

Minnesotans will be able to print licenses at home or save licenses electronically. License agents will also have options to print your license on plain paper.

Safety classes

We are adding an online event management system so you can find, enroll and pay for education and safety training classes and print duplicates of your safety certificates. Once you pass safety certifications, you will be able to buy licenses immediately through the same system.

Hard cards

Hard cards were researched and found to be an added expense to the customer. Your license will be available electronically to store on your smart device or be printed on paper to keep with you. License agents will still be available statewide to sell licenses.

Deputy registrars

Recreational vehicles will continue to be processed at deputy registrar offices across the state or at the DNR central office in St. Paul. Renewals still will be available to process online.

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