National Recreational Licensing System
Service standards
- Access to National Recreational Licensing System (NRLS), (which issues tidal waters sport fishing licences), online portal provided 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Phone and email inquiries responded to within 5 business days
Performance targets
For each authorization, the target for achieving the corresponding standard is set as follows:
- National Recreational Licensing System: 98 percent of the time
- phone and email inquiries: 90 percent of the time
| Standards | Target | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Access to National Recreational Licensing System, (which issues tidal waters sport fishing licences), online portal provided 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. | 98% | 99% | 99% | 99% |
| Phone and email inquiries responded to within 5 business days. | 90% | 99% | 99% | 99% |
Applying for a tidal waters sport fishing license
Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Licences can be obtained online through the National Recreational Licensing System, which gives step by step guidance on how to obtain a licence.
More information on recreational licensing is available online.
In order to print a licence on a personal computer, you will need a printer with 8.5 x 11 letter-sized paper, Adobe Reader, a compatible web browser, and a valid credit or debit card for fee payment.
** Apply outside peak periods to avoid potential system delays. The best time to access the National Recreational Licensing System is outside the following peak periods: every day from 12-3pm; every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday; April 1st of each year; and anytime there is a major fishery opening.
Licences can also be purchased through Independent Access Providers. A list of current service providers and their locations may be found online.
Service feedback
Feedback on these service standards should be directed to:
Client Support, National Recreational Licensing System
Toll-Free Telephone: 1-877-535-7307
Email: fishing.peche@dfo-mpo.gc.ca
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