Utah offers two-year and three-year fishing licenses that cost less per year than buying annually
Utah's multi-year fishing license lets you buy a license that covers two or three consecutive years upfront, rather than renewing every 12 months. The cost per year is lower than the single-year price, so you pay less overall if you plan to fish regularly. You get the same fishing rights as an annual license holder — the difference is only the term and the total cost.
The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources sells these licenses directly through their website, by phone, or at license agents across the state. You can also buy them in person at most sporting goods stores and outdoor retailers that carry fishing licenses.
Key Takeaways
- Utah sells two-year and three-year resident fishing licenses at a lower per-year rate than annual licenses, saving money if you fish every year.
- Non-residents can also buy multi-year licenses, though the discount structure and pricing differ from resident rates.
- A multi-year license covers the same species and waters as a single-year license — the only difference is how long it lasts.
- You can purchase multi-year licenses online through the Division of Wildlife Resources website, by phone, or at any authorized license agent.
- Your license becomes active on the date you purchase it and expires at the end of the final year, regardless of when you buy it during the calendar year.
Resident and Non-Resident Pricing
Resident multi-year licenses cost less per year than buying three separate annual licenses. A resident who fishes every year will save money by purchasing a three-year license upfront rather than renewing annually. The exact savings depend on the current year's pricing, which the Division of Wildlife Resources sets and updates.
Non-residents also have access to multi-year licenses, though the pricing structure is separate from resident rates. Non-resident licenses are more expensive overall, but the per-year cost still drops when you buy for multiple years. If you are a non-resident planning to fish Utah waters for several years in a row, a multi-year license is worth comparing to annual purchases.
Check the Division of Wildlife Resources website or call 1-800-221-0659 for current pricing on both resident and non-resident multi-year licenses. Prices can change year to year, and the website shows the exact cost before you buy.
What a Multi-Year License Covers
A multi-year license gives you the same fishing rights as an annual license for each year it covers. You can fish all open waters in Utah, use the same methods and gear, and keep the same daily and possession limits. The license does not restrict you to certain species, seasons, or regions — it works statewide for the entire term.
You still need to follow all current fishing regulations, including seasonal closures, size limits, and area-specific rules. A multi-year license does not exempt you from those rules; it only covers the cost of the license itself. If regulations change during your license term, you must follow the new rules immediately.
How to Buy a Multi-Year License Online
The Division of Wildlife Resources website (wildlife.utah.gov) has a license purchase portal where you can select a two-year or three-year license and pay by credit card. You will need your Utah driver's license or ID number, date of birth, and address. The process takes about five minutes.
After you complete your purchase, you receive a confirmation email with your license number. Print the confirmation or save it to your phone — you must carry proof of your license while fishing. Some anglers take a screenshot of the email; others print a copy. Either way, you need to show it if a wildlife officer asks.
If you prefer not to buy online, call the Division of Wildlife Resources at 1-800-221-0659 during business hours. A staff member can process your order over the phone and mail the physical license to you, or email a digital copy.
Buying at a License Agent or Retailer
Hundreds of sporting goods stores, outdoor retailers, and tackle shops across Utah are authorized to sell fishing licenses, including multi-year options. Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's, and most local fly shops carry them. You can also buy at some Walmart locations and smaller bait-and-tackle stores.
Walk in with your ID and ask for a two-year or three-year resident or non-resident license. The agent will print it on the spot or email it to you. The cost is the same whether you buy online or at a retailer — there is no markup or extra fee for buying in person.
If you are unsure which retailers near you sell licenses, the Division of Wildlife Resources website has a searchable map of authorized agents. Enter your city or zip code to find the closest option.
When Your License Starts and Ends
A multi-year license becomes active on the date you purchase it and expires at the end of the final year. If you buy a three-year license on March 15, it runs through March 14 three years later. You do not have to wait for a calendar year to start — your license term begins immediately.
This matters if you buy late in the year. A three-year license purchased in November will expire in November three years later, not on December 31. Plan your purchase timing if you want your license to renew on a specific date, or simply buy whenever you are ready to fish.
About 30 days before your license expires, the Division of Wildlife Resources sends a reminder email if you bought online. If you bought at a retailer and did not provide an email, you will not receive a reminder — mark your calendar yourself or check the expiration date on your license.
Multi-Year Licenses for Specific Situations
If you move to Utah during your license term, your multi-year license remains valid through its expiration date. You do not have to buy a new one or pay a difference. The same applies if you change residency status — a resident license you bought stays good for its full term even if you become a non-resident later.
If your license is lost or damaged, contact the Division of Wildlife Resources with your license number or purchase confirmation. They can issue a replacement at no extra cost. Keep your confirmation email or receipt in case you need to prove you own the license.
Refunds on unused multi-year licenses are not standard. Once you purchase and activate a license, it is yours for the full term. Read the terms on the purchase page before you buy to confirm the current refund policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a multi-year license cheaper than buying annual licenses?
Yes, the per-year cost is lower when you buy for two or three years upfront. If you fish every year, a three-year license saves you money compared to three separate annual purchases. The exact savings depends on current pricing, which you can check on the Division of Wildlife Resources website before you buy.
Can I buy a multi-year license if I am not a Utah resident?
Yes, non-residents can purchase two-year and three-year licenses. Non-resident rates are higher than resident rates, but the per-year discount still applies when you buy for multiple years. Pricing for non-resident multi-year licenses is listed separately on the purchase page.
Do I need to carry a physical copy of my multi-year license?
You must carry proof of your license while fishing. A printed copy, an email confirmation, or a screenshot on your phone all work. Wildlife officers accept any of these forms. If you buy online, save or print your confirmation email immediately after purchase.
What happens if I move out of Utah before my license expires?
Your license remains valid through its expiration date, even if you move. You can continue to fish Utah waters during any trips back to the state. The license does not transfer to another state or become invalid because you changed residency.
Can I get a refund if I do not use my multi-year license?
Refunds on unused multi-year licenses are not offered once the license is purchased and activated. Before you buy, make sure you plan to fish during the license term. If you have questions about the refund policy, contact the Division of Wildlife Resources at 1-800-221-0659.