Account information

To apply for a Resident License, customers will need to present proof that they are legal residents of
New York State. Owning property in NYS does not constitute residency.

You must also reside in NYS for at least 30 days. To purchase a Lifetime License, the individual must prove NYS residency for one year.

You can only issue a Resident License to customers who show one of the Residency Proofs listed below.

Acceptable Residency Proofs through online store

1. Current New York State Driver’s License
2. Current New York State Non-Driver’s ID with A VALID NY ADDRESS
3. Parents NYS drivers license for minors

Acceptable Residency Proofs at an in person location

1. Current New York State Driver’s License
2. Current New York State Non-Driver’s ID with A VALID NY ADDRESS
3. Current New York State Income Tax Information (IT-201 OR W-2)
4. Current New York State vehicle registrations showing a valid NYS address
5. Current Voter Registration card or current letter from Board of Elections
6. Current New York State Student ID or a letter from the registrar
7. Religious Verification (Amish, etc.)
8. Military LES/Orders
9. Current parent’s residency proof for a minor (Parents NYS drivers license)
10. Current pay stub that shows a NYS address and at least four weeks of employment in the state.

They have to fill out the Certification of Military Active Service Status form (located in the
Agent Help Link) and the license issuing agent must keep this form on file for three years

Resident Active Duty Military stationed outside New York State and home on leave for 30
days or less are eligible for a free fishing, hunting, and trapping license under the Patriot Plan. For online purchases you must add the eligibility to your account before purchasing a license ( "How to add eligibility). For in person purchases, you will have to fill out the Certification of Military Active Service Status form (form) and the license issuing agent must keep this form on file for three years

Non-resident Military Personnel stationed in New York State are entitled to purchase a
resident license as long as they present military orders proving that they are stationed within the
state. They must fill out a Certification of Military Active Service Status form (form) and the license issuing agent must keep this form on file for three years. Their DECALS file should be changed to resident to sell the license -- DO NOT MARK AS MILITARY, THERE IS NO FURTHER DISCOUNT.

Full-time Students are eligible to purchase resident licenses while they are attending a high
school, college or university in NYS and residing in the state for the school year. The applicant
must submit a current student ID card AND a current statement signed by the registrar or
comparable officer of the high school, college or university that the applicant is enrolled at.