Q: If I didn’t receive an application in the mail, how do I get one?
A: Applications may be obtained through the S.C. Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website athttp://dnr.sc.gov/purchase.html. Select the “Resident” or “Nonresident” application link. You can also receive an application by calling the DNR License Office in Columbia at (803) 734-3833 Mon-Fri from 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Q: If I didn’t receive a postcard, can I still apply early for my license online?
A: Yes. Anyone can use the early online application process. Postcards are primarily to remind customers of their Customer ID number. This number helps link a customer with their existing information in the DNR system.

Q: How do I apply for deer tags?
A: By Aug. 5, hunters who obtained deer tags last year and have not reapplied for the new year will receive an application to order either 2 or 4 tags. New applicants may use the Special Tags application found in the DNR Rules & Regulations publication or order online athttp://www.dnr.sc.gov/purchase.html.

Q: How do I apply for a shrimp baiting license?
A: By Aug. 5, individuals who obtained a shrimp baiting license last year and have not reapplied for the new year will receive an application for a shrimp baiting license. New applicants may use the Special Tags application found in the DNR Rules & Regulations publication or order online athttp://www.dnr.sc.gov/purchase.html.

Q: How do I apply for an alligator tag?
A: Alligator tags are offered through the draw hunt process and online registration is required (application window is now closed for 2013). Special information on the draw hunt process, permit requirements and previous alligator harvests information can be found at http://www.dnr.sc.gov/wildlife/alligator/index.html.

Q: How do I apply for wild turkey tags?
A: Wild turkey tags are not automatically sent to hunters. You can apply for turkey tags through the DNR website, using the license mailer, using the special tag application found in the DNR Rules & Regulations publication or online at: http://www.dnr.sc.gov/purchase.html. You can also find tags at any local license vendor. Find the nearest vendor at: https://www.dnr.sc.gov/license/licenseag/. Tags for applications received during the new license year will be mailed early February 2014. There is no cost for the tags.

Q: When do I need a migratory bird permit?
A: Anyone 16 years or older who hunts migratory birds must obtain a Migratory Game Bird Permit in addition to the required hunting license. There is no cost for the permit. Lifetime Hunting and Lifetime Combination license holders under the age of 64 years and hunt migratory birds must obtain a migratory bird permit.

Q: Do I still need a stamp to hunt ducks or geese?
A: Anyone 16 years or older who hunts ducks, geese or brants must obtain a state waterfowl permit and a Federal Migratory Bird & Hunting Conservation Stamp (Federal Duck Stamp) in addition to a migratory bird permit and required hunting license. The hunter must have the federal stamp in his possession when afield and sign across the stamp face. State duck stamps are only for commemorative purposes and not valid for hunting.

Q: How is the DNR Customer ID number used?
A: Your Customer ID number links you to existing DNR records. You will only have to confirm changes to your personal and contact information. Your customer ID number, combined with one other piece of personal information only you would know, allows you to quickly make your license selections.

Q: I am now 64 years of age. Do I qualify for a special license?
A: A person who has been a South Carolina resident for at least 180 consecutive days may apply for a Senior Lifetime license. The 180 days must be immediately prior to submitting an application for the license. The license includes hunting and fishing privileges and does not expire. The cost is $9.

Q: Where do I find applications for lifetime licenses?
A: Applications for lifetime hunting and fishing licenses are available on the DNR website at www.dnr.sc.gov/licensing or in the DNR Rules & Regulations publication.

Q: Who is exempt from having a recreational hunting or fishing license?
A: Anyone under 16 years of age is not required to have a license for recreational use. However, before hunting antlerless deer, wild turkey or bear, or when using nongame fish gear in the freshwaters, youth must obtain tags for these activities.