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.
Learn about and apply for a recreational fishing licence.
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. See this list of service providers and their locations.
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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