Licensing  >  Hunting, Fishing & Trapping Licenses  >  Lifetime License

North Carolina Lifetime Licenses

When you purchase a lifetime license from the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, you are investing in the future of fish and wildlife, as well as their habitats, in the Tar Heel state. That's because the money generated from the sale of lifetime licenses, along with their associated fees, goes into a special fund, called the N.C. Wildlife Endowment Fund. The endowment fund for wildlife was a simple yet revolutionary idea: Create a lifetime inland fishing or hunting license. Put the license fees into a special fund. Spend the accrued interest, not the principal, on programs and projects that benefit fish and wildlife. Since the endowment fund's inception in 1981, the Wildlife Commission has spent more than $100 million in earned income has been utilized on conservation programs and projects. 

The Wildlife Commission offers several types of lifetime licenses. Please note:

  • All lifetime licenses are good for life. Even if you move out of North Carolina, you may use the license anytime you return to the state.
  • Lifetime licenses may be given as a gift. There are no residency restrictions when purchasing the infant and youth licenses. Simply complete the donor information on the application and the license will be mailed directly to you. 
  • The lifetime sportsman and lifetime comprehensive hunting licenses include the state waterfowl privilege. 
  • The lifetime comprehensive hunting and lifetime comprehensive inland fishing licenses are sold only to residents of North Carolina. 
  • Nonresidents may purchase the nonresident sportsman’s license. 

Lifetime License Applications 


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I personalize my lifetime license?

Yes, when purchasing a license, it may be personalized for an additional $5.00. There are up to six spaces for a special number or name. For example, you may use a birth date (062855), (JU2855), initials (C.R.R.), or a nickname (Jack). You also have twenty-one spaces for a personal message. For example, Happy First Birthday, Love Mom and Dad or Enjoy the Outdoors.


Who is eligible for a volunteer firefighter, rescue and emergency medical services squad lifetime license?

Any volunteer firefighter who appears as a volunteer on the certified roster of eligible firefighters submitted to the NC State Firefighters’ Association for five consecutive fiscal years including the last fiscal year. Any volunteer rescue or emergency medical services squad members appearing on the certified roster of eligible rescue or emergency medical services squad members submitted to the North Carolina Association of Rescue and Emergency Medical Services, Inc for five consecutive fiscal years including the last fiscal year. The state fiscal year runs from July 1st to June 30th. Volunteer Firefighter, Rescue Squad and EMS Squad Lifetime License Frequently Asked Questions