AUSTIN — The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission has approved new proof of residency requirements for anyone purchasing a recreational hunting or fishing license in the state.
State officials say the change is aimed at preventing fraud and stopping people from falsely claiming Texas residency to receive discounted in-state license prices and benefits.
Under the new policy, most Texas residents — along with residents from many other states — will be required to show a valid, unexpired driver’s license or personal identification card when purchasing a license.
However, stricter requirements will apply to residents of 19 states and Washington, D.C., including California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, Virginia and Washington.
Those individuals must provide either:
A REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID, orA non-compliant ID along with additional documentation, such as a U.S. passport, military ID, Texas license to carry, or an original birth certificate.
The updated rules take effect August 1, just ahead of the annual license sales launch on August 15.
Officials say the added layer of verification ensures residency claims are legitimate at the point of sale.
For international buyers, the requirements are also stricter. Foreign residents must present a valid passport along with any additional documentation required for entry into the United States.
Texas Parks and Wildlife says the changes are part of a broader effort to protect the integrity of the state’s licensing system and ensure fair pricing for Texas residents.
The new requirements will be in place statewide beginning August 1.