SOUTH DAKOTA DEPT. OF GAME, FISH AND PARKS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, Aug. 29, 2005
CONTACT: Scott Simpson, 773-3393

Both Hunting License and Valid I.D. Required While Hunting

PIERRE, S.D. – Hunters are reminded that they must carry some form of identification in addition to their hunting license while hunting in South Dakota.

"A hunter must have both a valid license and the proper identification when in the field actively hunting and when transporting game," said Game, Fish and Parks Licensing Supervisor Scott Simpson. "Proper forms of identification include a valid, state-issued driver's license, a state-issued- and expiration-dated identification card, or for those under age 16, the HuntSAFE card." This requirement applies to both resident and nonresident hunters.

"This is an important part of our license process," Simpson explained. "The trade-off of having a license system that allows the customer to purchase and print a license copy from the convenience of a home computer is that valid identification is required while carrying and using that license."

Simpson added that the hunter’s social security number is required of both residents and nonresidents when purchasing a license. "It does not show up on the license, but is required by state and federal law as part of an effort to track delinquent child support payments," he said. "This is a requirement for all hunters, including youth."

Youth under age 16 are required to present their hunter safety card to a license agent when they purchase their license.

Licenses can be purchased at agents throughout the state, or online by accessing the GFP web site at www.sdgfp.info and clicking on the link to "Buy General Hunting Fishing Licenses." The link is found under the subheading "Licenses and Reservations."

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