TAX & LICENSE / HUNTING & FISHING LICENSE

Hunting & Fishing Licenses
Licenses are required in Connecticut for all persons 16 years of age or older who are freshwater fishing. They may be obtained at the local town clerk’s office. The cost of fishing and hunting licenses varies with your age, type of license, duration of license, and residency status. Connecticut requires the appropriate hunter education courses unless you have held a resident license in another state within the past five years or you can provide a certification of course completion from Connecticut or another state. The Conservation Education and Firearms Safety courses are offered at a number of convenient locations around the state. For more information or answers to your specific questions, contact:

Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection

860-424-3000
www.ct.gov/dep

Frequently Requested Numbers

 

Boating Division
860-434-8638

Inland Fisheries

860-424-3474

Marine Fisheries

860-434-6043

Outdoor Recreation

860-424-3200

Wildlife Division

860-424-3011

Boat Licensing
Boating is a popular activity for residents of Connecticut, especially in the region’s lakes, rivers, and the Long Island Sound. Connecticut operates more than 100 public boat launch areas. Boats of any size that are motorized must be registered with the DMV. After completing the application for vessel registration, bring the bill of sale (include previous number and state if a used boat) and proof of payment of sales and use tax. Details on boat registration are available on the Department of Motor Vehicles website or by contacting the department:

Department of Motor Vehicles

860-263-5700
800-842-8222
www.ct.gov/dmv

Firearms Laws
It is unlawful to conceal a handgun or carry a handgun in any vehicle without a valid permit. The state oversees all firearms permits through the cooperation of local municipalities. Begin the registration by contacting your local selectman’s office or the local chief of police. More information on firearms laws, permits, and license fees are available from:

Firearms Permit

Examiners Board
860-256-2947
www.ct.gov/bfpe