Washington Transitions to Mobile Hunting and Fishing Licenses

WDFW to phase out traditional paper licenses in favor of digital options starting July 2026

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) announced that beginning July 8, 2026, the agency will no longer issue hunting and fishing licenses on the familiar waterproof, tear-resistant paper. Instead, the department is encouraging license holders to transition to mobile licensing options through the MyWDFW app and Fish Washington app, where users can purchase licenses, report harvests, and display their license credentials directly on a smartphone.

Why it matters

This change reflects a broader shift among wildlife agencies across the country to modernize licensing systems and provide more convenient options for hunters and anglers. The transition is also driven by practical concerns, as durable license paper has become increasingly difficult and costly to obtain, and the equipment used to print the waterproof licenses is becoming outdated.

The details

Through the MyWDFW and Fish Washington apps, users will be able to purchase licenses, report harvests, and display their license credentials directly on a smartphone. Despite the change, WDFW says customers who prefer physical documents will still have the option to print licenses on standard 8.5-by-11-inch paper at license dealers, WDFW offices, or at home.

  • The transition to mobile hunting and fishing licenses will begin on July 8, 2026.
  • The MyWDFW mobile app was introduced in December 2025.

The players

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW)

The state agency responsible for managing and protecting Washington's fish and wildlife resources.

Kelly Susewind

The director of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

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What they’re saying

“Following in the footsteps of fish and wildlife agencies nationwide, this shift provides hunters and anglers more convenient, modern licensing and reporting options.”

— Kelly Susewind, WDFW Director (dailyfly.com)

What’s next

WDFW officials say more information about the upcoming licensing changes and the MyWDFW mobile app will be available through the agency's official website.

The takeaway

This transition to mobile hunting and fishing licenses in Washington is part of a broader shift among wildlife agencies to modernize their licensing systems and provide more convenient options for outdoor enthusiasts. While the traditional paper licenses will still be available, the move to digital options reflects the changing needs and preferences of today's license holders.