Montana first started its Automated Licenseing System (ALS) several decades ago. The system was created to streamline the process of buying a fishing license as well as protect personal information, as purchasers had to give their social security number to obtain a license. Things are changing once again. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is going fully online for all fishing licenses purchased for the 2026 season and beyond. Anglers may still be able to purchase their fishing licenses in person at a fly shop or retail, however, that fly shop or retail must be a part of the new License Ambassador Program. Anglers can still use the current online system on any device, anywhere they can connect to the internet--they are not required to visit a physical License Ambassador. Anglers can also go online to buy or apply for licenses and permits. The online licensing system used by the public will be the same system used by License Ambassadors to sell licenses to customers in their stores.
Why the change?
The transition replaces an aging provider system that relied on proprietary equipment that is no longer repairable or replaceable. By using FWP’s secure online portal, License Ambassadors can now serve customers using standard internet-connected devices.
“This change is necessary because we are simply unable to keep the old system going with outdated license provider equipment that we can’t fix when it breaks or replace when it’s unusable,” said Emily Cooper, FWP Licensing Bureau Chief.
For the past several months, FWP has worked with existing license providers on transitioning to the new License Ambassador program. FWP has created a License Ambassador kit that will include signage options, regulations, and other information for customers and to allow License Ambassadors to promote this additional customer service. FWP has already signed up new outlets to sell licenses with the new License Ambassador program and will be shipping out License Ambassador kits to local businesses in the coming months.
“This change will ultimately provide more businesses where hunters and anglers who like to buy or apply for licenses in person, can go for help,” said FWP Director Christy Clark.
Due to outdated equipment and the need to allow for more flexibility for businesses looking to sell hunting and fishing licenses, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is moving to a new License Ambassador program this spring. The program is a partnership between FWP and local businesses around Montana who want to offer hunting and fishing license sales services to their customers. By moving to a modern, web-based system, the License Ambassador program allows more retailers to offer licensing services without the need for specialized, outdated hardware.