On January 12, 2026, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department filed proposed amendments to the department’s rule regarding proof of residency requirements for issuance of recreational hunting and fishing licenses and permits with the Texas Secretary of State. The proposed amendments would require a person to produce, at the time a license is purchased or obtained, a driver’s license or personal identification certificate issued by the state or territory of the United States of which the person is a resident that complies with the REAL ID Act of 2005. Additional documentation options are provided for residents of a state or territory of the United States including a United States passport or passport card, United States military identification card, immigration-related documents issued by the United States Government, or a certified birth certificate; and for residents of Texas a concealed handgun license. If the person is a resident of a foreign country, the person must produce a driver’s license or personal identification certificate issued by the person’s country of residence, accompanied by a valid foreign passport and other documents required for entry into the United States. The proposed rule amendments will be published in the January 23, 2026, issue of the Texas Register.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has recently filed proposed amendments to the proof of residency requirements for recreational hunting and fishing licenses and permits. These proposed changes aim to streamline the process and ensure that only eligible residents are benefiting from the privileges associated with these licenses.
What are the proposed amendments?
The proposed amendments include changes to the documentation required to prove residency for hunting and fishing licenses. Under the new rules, individuals will need to provide a valid Texas driver's license or identification card issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety as proof of residency. This change is intended to simplify the process and make it easier for residents to comply with the requirements.
Why are these changes necessary?
These changes are necessary to ensure that only Texas residents are taking advantage of the benefits associated with hunting and fishing licenses. By requiring a Texas driver's license or identification card, TPWD can verify the residency status of individuals more effectively, reducing the risk of non-residents obtaining licenses meant for Texas residents.
How will these amendments impact residents?
For Texas residents, these proposed amendments should not have a significant impact, as most residents already possess a valid Texas driver's license or identification card. However, residents who do not have these forms of identification may need to take additional steps to obtain the necessary documentation to prove their residency.
When will these changes go into effect?
The proposed amendments to the proof of residency requirements for recreational hunting and fishing licenses and permits are currently under review. If approved, the changes are expected to go into effect in the near future. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about these developments and ensure they have the necessary documentation to comply with the new requirements.
Overall, the proposed amendments to the proof of residency requirements for recreational hunting and fishing licenses and permits aim to enhance the integrity of the system and ensure that only eligible residents are benefiting from these privileges. By simplifying the documentation process and verifying residency more effectively, TPWD is taking steps to protect the interests of Texas residents and preserve the resources for future generations.