If you are a new Illinois hunter or trapper, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources is encouraging you to apply early during application periods for a number of permits for the 2021-2022 hunting seasons.  With the transition to a new Illinois licensing, permitting, and harvest reporting system, first-time hunters and trappers are currently unable to enter required IDNR customer numbers until the day after they purchase those licenses. 

To avoid missing those deadlines, first-time buyers are encouraged not to wait until the last day to purchase licenses and apply for permits.  IDNR Spokesperson Rachel Torbert says that you have to have your license for a day before you can apply for a permit.

Applying well in advance can get you your permit in enough time.

Some of the things that first-time license buyers can apply for are site-specific dove, free upland game, public duck and goose hunting permits, and the bobcat lottery applications for bobcat hunting and trapping.  For more information visit the IDNR website.