
Illinois has specific criteria for individuals who are disabled and want to obtain a fishing license. Generally, persons declared legally disabled or blind are allowed to fish without a license. However, they may still need to provide proof of disability or blindness. In the case of disabled veterans, a Veteran's Disability Card or other qualifying documentation may be required. Additionally, Illinois offers accessible fishing areas and events throughout the state, making it easier for individuals with disabilities to participate in fishing and other outdoor activities.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Disability criteria | Legally disabled or blind |
| Proof of disability | Veteran's disability card, State disabled person ID card, Class 2O or 2A card |
| Additional criteria | Must be able to fish in a manner that is safe to themselves and others |
| Other exemptions | Residents who are owners or tenants of the land, people on active duty in the Armed Forces, under 16s |
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What You'll Learn

Legally disabled or blind Illinois residents
Illinois residents who have been legally declared disabled or blind are not required to have a fishing license to fish in the state. This exemption applies to both residents and non-residents of Illinois who are disabled or blind, as well as active military personnel on leave. However, it is important to note that disabled or blind individuals may still need to obtain a permit for certain sites or activities.
To be considered a resident of Illinois, an individual must have resided in the state for at least 30 days prior to purchasing their fishing license. Illinois residents who are disabled or blind and wish to fish without a license must provide proof of their disability, such as a state-issued disabled person ID card or a doctor's note. This proof of disability must be presented when fishing to exempt individuals from the requirement to have a fishing license.
In addition to individuals with disabilities, there are other groups of people who are exempt from needing a fishing license in Illinois. This includes owners or tenants fishing in waters on their own lands (except for club, organizational lakes, or lake developments), individuals fishing at fee fishing areas licensed by the Department of Natural Resources, and persons on active duty in the Armed Forces who entered the service from Illinois and are residents fishing while on leave.
Illinois also offers special fishing licenses and reduced prices for certain groups, such as seniors and veterans. Seniors aged 65 and over are eligible for a reduced-price senior fishing license, while those aged 75 and older can purchase a super senior fishing license for a minimal fee. Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces who are Illinois residents are eligible for half-priced licenses after returning from service or mobilization. These licenses can be purchased through the Springfield office by contacting them directly.
While Illinois offers exemptions and reduced prices for certain groups, it is important for individuals to stay up-to-date with the state's fishing regulations and policies. These policies can change, and additional transaction fees may apply when purchasing a fishing license. Overall, Illinois aims to provide accessible fishing opportunities for its residents and visitors, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the state's vast natural resources.
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Disabled veterans
In Illinois, disabled veterans are offered several benefits and exemptions when it comes to fishing licenses. These provisions are in place to ensure that disabled veterans can enjoy fishing and have access to various outdoor recreational opportunities. Here are the key points regarding what constitutes a disability for fishing licenses in Illinois, specifically for disabled veterans:
Exemptions for Disabled Veterans:
Qualifying Documentation:
The Veteran's Disability Card serves as the primary form of qualifying documentation for disabled veterans. This card indicates that the veteran has a service-related disability of at least 10% or receives a total disability pension. It is essential to carry this card while fishing, as it provides proof of eligibility for the license exemption.
Accessibility and Accommodation:
Illinois has made significant efforts to enhance accessibility for disabled individuals, including disabled veterans. The state offers accessible fishing areas, such as piers and bank fishing spots, making it easier for individuals with disabilities to participate in fishing. Additionally, there are fishing events held throughout the state, creating further opportunities for disabled veterans to engage in the activity.
License Options and Discounts:
While disabled veterans are generally exempt from purchasing a fishing license, they may still choose to obtain one if they wish to take advantage of certain benefits or discounts. Illinois offers various license options, including reduced-price senior fishing licenses for residents aged 65 and over, and super senior fishing licenses for residents aged 75 and older. These discounted licenses provide affordable access to fishing for disabled veterans who meet the age requirements.
In summary, Illinois provides several benefits and exemptions for disabled veterans when it comes to fishing licenses. By offering license exemptions, accessible fishing areas, and discounted license options, the state ensures that disabled veterans have enhanced opportunities to participate in fishing and related outdoor activities. It is always advisable to stay updated with the latest regulations and provisions by referring to official sources, such as the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
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Proof of disability
To be considered disabled for a fishing license in Illinois, you must be able to show proof of disability. This can be done in several ways. Firstly, if you are a veteran with a disability, you must present your Veteran's Disability Card, which indicates at least a 10% service-connected disability or a total disability pension. This card can be obtained from the Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs Office.
For Illinois residents with a disability, a State Disabled Person ID card must be presented, specifically indicating a Class 2 or Class 2A disability. For non-residents with a disability, there is, unfortunately, no exemption from purchasing a fishing license unless you are a disabled veteran with the qualifying documentation mentioned above.
In addition, a Class P2O or P2A card, previously known as a Class P2 or Class 2A card, will also serve as proof of disability. These cards can be obtained by picking up an application at your nearest Secretary of State's office.
It is important to note that while having a disability exempts you from needing a fishing license, you will still need to obtain a permit for the site or game you wish to fish. Permits can be obtained through a statewide application or site allocation.
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Class 2 or 2A disability
In Illinois, a person with a disability who is an Illinois resident is not required to have a fishing license. However, they must possess a State disabled person ID card that shows a Class 2 or Class 2A disability. This exemption only applies to Illinois residents.
Illinois has some of the most accessible fishing areas in the country, with accessible piers and places for bank fishing. The state also holds fishing events throughout the state.
To obtain a permit, a person with a disability will need to apply for a statewide application or site allocation. Having a disability does not exempt them from purchasing a permit. After receiving the permit, they must call the site 10 days prior to their fishing date, and the site will make reasonable accommodations for them.
Veterans with disabilities are also exempt from needing a fishing license. They must show their Veterans disability card, which can be obtained from the Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs Office. The veteran must be at least 10% disabled with service-related disabilities or receive a total disability pension. This applies to both Illinois residents and non-residents.
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Under 16s
In Illinois, anyone under the age of 16 is not required to have a fishing license. This applies to both residents and non-residents of the state. If an adult is taking a child under the age of 16 fishing, they do not need a license if they are not fishing themselves. However, if they wish to fish as well, they will need to purchase a full-cost license.
Fishing licenses are required for all anglers aged 16 and above in Illinois. These licenses can be purchased online or from approved vendors across the state. The cost of the license depends on the length and type of license required, as well as the residency status of the angler. Residents of Illinois must have lived in the state for at least 30 days prior to purchasing their license to be eligible for resident rates.
There are certain exemptions to the requirement of having a fishing license in Illinois. These include residents who are legally disabled or blind, residents on active duty in the Armed Forces, and veterans with disabilities. To prove disability status, individuals may need to present a State disabled person I.D. card or a veteran's disability card, depending on their situation.
It is important to note that fishing in Illinois is subject to various regulations and laws, and there are specific periods when fishing is permitted. Anglers are advised to refer to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for detailed information on fishing licenses, regulations, and exemptions.
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Frequently asked questions
Anyone declared legally disabled or blind is allowed to fish without a license. You must be able to show proof of disability with a Veteran’s disability card (at least 10% service-connected) or a State disabled person ID card that shows a Class 2 or Class 2A disability.
Non-resident disabled veterans with qualifying documentation are exempt from needing a fishing license. All other non-resident disabled persons will require a fishing license.
Other exemptions from needing a fishing license in Illinois include: being under the age of 16, fishing at a fee fishing area licensed by the Department of Natural Resources, or being on active duty in the Armed Forces and an Illinois resident.
You can buy your fishing license online at the Department of Natural Resources website, or from an approved Department of Natural Resources license and permit vendor throughout the state.

























