Here are answers to some of the frequently asked questions about accessible outdoor recreation in Washington.
How do I apply for disability status?
Applications and instructions are available on the WDFW website or by writing the WDFW Licensing Division, PO Box 43154, Olympia, WA 98504; by calling 360-902-2464; or by visiting a WDFW office near you. Receiving disability status allows you to participate in WDFW programs, events, and activities, apply for services, and use accessible facilities. You will also receive a companion card depending on which license you purchase.
What is a Harvester Companion Card?
It is a 5-inch section of your fishing or shell fishing license issued by the department to any person who has applied for and received Disability Status. A Harvester Companion Card allows you to designate another licensed person to assist you or act on your behalf in that specific function you are not able to perform for yourself during your recreational activity in the taking of shellfish, game fish or food fish. Persons meeting WDFW disability qualifications must complete a Hunter/Fisher Disability Status application for approval. If approved, you will receive the harvester companion card and access to WDFW Accessibility programs, services, and facilities. Please see the Eligibility Requirements for Disability Status page for the application and additional information.
What is a Hunter Companion Card?
It is a 5-inch section of your hunting license issued by the department to any person who has applied for and received Disability Status. A Hunter Companion Card allows you to designate another licensed person to assist you or act on your behalf in that specific function you are not able to perform for yourself during your recreational activity such as stalking, shooting, tracking, retrieving, or tagging of game birds and game animals. Persons meeting WDFW disability qualifications must complete a Hunter/Fisher Disability Status application for approval. If approved, you will receive the hunter companion card and access to WDFW Accessibility programs, services, and facilities. Please see the Eligibility Requirements for Disability Status page for the application and additional information.
If I am a disabled veteran, do I qualify for disabled hunting privileges?
If you have a permanent physical impairment which renders you unable to hunt or fish, you must complete a Hunter/Fisher Disability Status Application before you may qualify for disabled hunting privileges. Please see the Eligibility Requirements for Disability Status page for the application and additional information. You may also qualify for veterans reduced fees.
If I am a resident disabled veteran, do I qualify for reduced fees?
Yes, you may qualify for reduced fees if you are an honorably discharged disabled veteran with a 30% or more service-connected disability rating, or an honorably discharged disabled veteran 65 years of age or older with any service connected disability rating. Please see the Eligibility Requirements for Veterans Reduced Fees page for the application and additional information.
Do non-residents veterans qualify for reduced fees?
Yes, you may qualify for resident rate fees if you are an honorably discharged disabled veteran with a 30% or more service connected disability rating, or a honorably discharged disabled veteran 65 years of age or older with any service connected disability rating. Please see the Eligibility Requirements for Veterans Reduced Fees page for the application and additional information.
Are there other qualifications for reduced fees?
Yes, you may qualify for reduced fees if you are a resident who permanently uses a wheelchair; resident who is blind or visually impaired; or a resident with a developmental disability. Please see the Eligibility Requirements for Other Reduced Fees page for the application and additional information.
Do non-residents with a disability qualify for disability assistance cards?
Yes, non-residents can qualify for disability status and receive assistance cards. Please see the Eligibility Requirements for Disability Status page for the application and additional information.
I am an amputee and do not use a wheelchair by choice. Do I qualify for a reduced fee privilege?
No, reduced fees are for those who, as a condition of their physical disability, permanently use a wheelchair at all times for mobility.
What is a developmental disability?
RCW 71A.10.020(4) A cognitive intellectual disability such as: cerebral palsy, down syndrome, epilepsy, autism, or another neurological condition of an individual found by the Secretary Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) to be closely related to an intellectual disability or to require treatment similar to that required for individuals with intellectual disabilities, which originates before the individual attains age 18, which has continued or can be expected to continue indefinitely, and which constitutes a substantial limitation to the individual. Not included: PTSD, Bi-polar, ADD, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Parkinson's, Multiple Sclerosis.
How do I renew my disability status?
Disability status renewals are no longer necessary or required with the automated licensing system, WILD (Washington Interactive Licensing Database). Hunter Companion Cards and Harvester Companion Cards are printed out at the time of license purchase if your application for disability status has been processed prior to your purchase.
Is there a special opportunity for the terminally ill?
WDFW offers special permits to terminally ill persons in certain circumstances. A one-time permit can be offered to a hunter or angler meeting very specific requirements during the application process. Applicants must have been diagnosed with a terminal illness with a predicted life expectancy of five years or less. They must provide official certification from their physician and give a detailed description of their opportunity preferences. Please note that terminally ill permits will not be issued for moose, bighorn sheep, or mountain goat.
For more information and to request an application, contact:
Wildlife Program Customer Service
360-902-2515
wildthing@dfw.wa.gov
Fish Program Customer Service
360-902-2700
fishpgm@dfw.wa.gov