In April 2016, the Province will introduce a new online system that will improve the overall efficiency of hunter services. Initially the online service will be for Limited Entry Hunting (LEH) applications. In the future, the system will integrate a range of online services for hunters, including licensing.
Hunters will have 24-hour online access to hunting services from any computer with an internet connection and will be able to view and track their Limited Entry Hunting applications online.
To provide access to the new system, hunter numbers will be replaced with a new Fish and Wildlife ID (FWID).
Hunters with an existing hunter number will be assigned a FWID (which will include their old hunter number) and a Resident Hunting Credential. New hunters will need to register and apply for their FWID and Resident Hunting Credential.
What is the Fish and Wildlife ID?
The FWID is a personalized nine-digit identification number that is linked to a secure electronic profile. The electronic profile contains your name, address, date of birth, hunting credential, and other information, such as the status of your LEH applications. The FWID can be printed on paper or displayed on a mobile or other computing device. There is no cost to obtain a FWID.
Hunters who don’t have a computer can still access hunting services – including applying for LEH – through Service BC, FrontCounterBC or a vendor (your local hunting, fishing and sporting goods store).
The New Fish and Wildlife ID – Information for Hunters
What is the new Fish and Wildlife ID?
In April, 2016, we are introducing a new online system that will, over time, integrate a range of services for hunters. As part of the new online system, we’re replacing hunter numbers with a new Fish and Wildlife ID – a unique number that gives you access to all of our online services. The first online service to be introduced will be Limited Entry Hunting (LEH) applications and notifications.
Why do I need a FWID?
The FWID will allow you to access Fish and Wildlife online services and view or update your profile, including your personal information (name, date of birth), contact information, Limited Entry Hunting (LEH) applications, and, in the future, your hunting licence and other services. As of April 2016, you will need a FWID to apply for the Limited Entry Hunting (LEH) draw or to purchase a hunting licence.
What is the FWID going to look like?
The FWID is not a card. You can either print it out or have it printed when you obtain it at Service BC or FrontCounter BC counter locations, or you can download a copy onto your mobile device.
How will I get the Fish and Wildlife ID?
Starting in April, the Fish and Wildlife ID (FWID) can be obtained online from your home computer, or you can obtain it at Service BC or FrontCounter BC locations. If you already have a Hunter Number, you will also be able to obtain your FWID at a local vendor (hunting/fishing or sporting goods store).
What do I need to do to get my FWID?
If you already have a Hunter Number, you will get their FWID automatically when you apply for Limited Entry Hunting or a Hunting Licence – whether online, or at a vendor, Service BC or FrontCounter BC location. If you don’t have a Hunter Number, you will have to provide some basic identification and information, whether you obtain your FWID online, or at Service BC or FrontCounter BC locations. If you don’t have a Hunter Number, you will not be able to obtain your FWID at a vendor.
I prefer to apply in person for hunting services. Do I still need a FWID?
Yes, hunter services are now online, so you need a FWID to access these services, whether at home or at a vendor, Service BC or FrontCounter BC location. You do not need to use a computer to access hunting services.
I already have a Hunter Number. How do I get a FWID?
If you already have a Hunter Number, you will receive your FWID when you:
- Apply for the LEH draw, whether online from home, at a vendor, Service BC or FrontCounter BC location.
- Purchase a BC Hunting Licence at a vendor, Service BC or FrontCounter BC location. Hunting licences will not be available for online purchase in 2016.
Note: Your old 6-digit hunter number will be included in your new 9-digit FWID.
I am a new hunter who does not have a Hunter Number. How do I get a FWID?
If you are a new hunter, you can obtain your FWID by applying online or by visiting a Service BC or FrontCounter BC location. You will need to provide supporting documentation to prove residency and successful completion of hunter safety training, such as the Conservation Outdoor Recreation Education (CORE) program or an equivalent course from another Canadian territory or province, or US state.
I am a First Nations hunter. Do I need a FWID?
Yes, if you wish to apply for Limited Entry Hunting (LEH), you will need a FWID.
You can keep up-to-date by referring to the BC government’s Hunting Transformation website.
