What Minnesota anglers need to know about the new DNR licensing system

FARGO, N.D. (Valley News Live) - The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources offers tips when using the new electronic licensing system.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has launched a new Electronic Licensing System, or ELS, along with the MN DNR Licensing app on June 9.

Anglers can now buy and carry most licenses electronically, but the change has raised some common questions.

To buy a license in the new system, customers must first create a Login MN account. The DNR recommends having your DNR customer ID ready so the system can find your existing record if you’ve purchased licenses before. A step-by-step “How-To” video is available here.

Licenses are still available in person at local license agents. With the new system, customers can purchase licenses three ways: in person at a retailer, online or through the mobile app: iPhone and Google Play. Phone sales are no longer available.

Anglers no longer have to rely solely on a paper license. The DNR says it is shifting most licenses to electronic formats to better match customer expectations, but paper options will remain available.

Previously purchased licenses are automatically loaded into the new ELS system once users log in with their DNR customer ID.

Families can also manage licenses together. The system allows customers to link accounts for spouses and children, so one person can keep track of multiple licenses in one place. A video tutorial on linking accounts is available here.

For more information and additional questions visit here.