The Tax Collector serves as an agent of the Florida Game and Freshwater Fish Commission. In this capacity, the Tax Collector is responsible for the sale of a variety of hunting and fishing permits. It is the Tax Collector's duty to collect all monies from these sales and maintain the records associated with these transactions. Hunting and fishing licenses may be obtained at the Tax Collector's Office or at various sport stores, bait and tackle shops, and retail stores as designated by the Tax Collector. You may also purchase your license online through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) website.

A valid license is required by all citizens who intend to hunt or fish in Florida. The only exceptions to the law are:

1. Residents 65 years of age and over are entitled to a free Senior Citizen Hunting and Fishing Certificate. This permit must be on the person when hunting or fishing as proof of identification.

2. Children under the age of 16 are not required to have a license; however, they must carry proof of age identification.

3. Permanently and totally disabled residents can obtain a special exemption card. An authorized disability statement must be presented upon application. This permit is free.

4. Residents who have been accepted by the Florida Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services as a client for retardation and developmental services are exempt from purchasing a license.

5. A Florida resident who is a member of the U.S. armed forces and is not stationed in Florida is exempt from the license requirements while home on leave for 30 days or less. Proof of orders must be on the person while hunting or fishing.

For further information regarding hunting and fishing, select from the menu or go straight to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission home page.


Freshwater Fishing
If you are a resident or non-resident of Florida, you need a valid Florida Fishing License to fish in the State's freshwater areas. The resident license is valid for 12 months from the day you purchase it and the fee is $13.50. There is an option to purchase a Resident Five Year License, Resident Lifetime License or a combined Resident Lifetime Fresh Water Fishing and Hunting License. Non-residents should call (386) 758-0525 for information regarding short-term licenses.

If you are 15 years old or younger, or you fish with a cane pole in the county of your residence, you don't need a license. Also, if you are over the age of 65 or permanently disabled, you may obtain a license without having to pay the state fee.

You may get a Fishing License at your nearest office of the Duval County Tax Collector. You can also purchase a license at one of the many subagents located around the County. Call the (386) 758-0525 for the location of the subagent nearest you.

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Saltwater Fishing Licenses
Since January 1, 1990, a valid Florida Saltwater Fishing License has been required in the State of Florida for residents and non-residents. The license is valid for 12 months from the from the day you purchase it and costs $13.50. There is an option to purchase a Five Year License or a Resident Lifetime License. Non-residents should call (386) 758-0525 or visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for information regarding short-term licenses.

A Saltwater Fishing License is not required if you are: A resident fishing in saltwater from land or a structure fixed to land. Fishing from a vessel if the operator holds a valid saltwater vessel license. A resident and a member of U.S. Armed Forces at home on leave for 30 days or less. A person who has been accepted by the Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services for Development Services. An individual fishing from a licensed pier. A Saltwater License may be issued, without license fee, to any resident who is certified by a Florida Licensed physician, by any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, or by the Veterans Administration to be totally and permanently disabled or who holds a valid identification card issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

No person may operate any vessel wherein a fee is paid either directly or indirectly for the purpose of saltwater fishing for non-commercial purposes unless a captain's license and a vessel license have been obtained. The license is based on the number of customers the vessel will carry.

Saltwater fishing licenses may be purchased at any Duval County Tax Collector's office. Resident licenses may also be purchased at any of our many subagent locations. Please call for information regarding the subagent nearest you.

If you have any questions regarding saltwater licenses that are not addressed here, you may select the Florida Game and Freshwater Fish Commission home page or call (386) 758-0525.

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Hunting Licenses
If you hunt in the State of Florida, you are required to have a valid hunting license. Resident and non-resident licenses are available. The resident hunting license is valid for 12 months from the day you purchase it and cost $12.50. You will need separate permits along with your hunting license if you use archery or muzzle-loading equipment. Management Area Permits, Turkey, and Water Fowl are also separate. There is an option for a Five Year License, a Lifetime Resident Hunting License, or a Lifetime Combined Hunting and Freshwater Fishing License. Non-residents need to call (386) 758-0525 or visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for information regarding fees and term limits.

There are specific seasons, areas, types of equipment, requirements and limitations for hunting in the State of Florida, including but not limited to a successful completion of a hunter safety course. Ask for current rules and regulations by calling the Duval County Hunting & Fishing Department at the number listed above.

There are subagents of the Duval County Tax Collector's Office in many hunting supply stores who can issue you a license. You can also purchase a license at any branch of the Duval County Tax Collector or visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website.