Overview
Purchasers of Lifetime Sporting Licenses, Boating Safety Certificates, and Lifetime Empire Passports can add icons to their DMV-issued driver license, permit, or non-driver ID. The convenient Adventure License simplifies your life and helps you to embark on your New York State outdoor adventure.
Eligibility
Hunting and Fishing
New York State residents can apply for lifetime hunting, fishing, or trapping licenses that suit their outdoor adventure preferences. Visit the DEC website for details about privileges and associated fees.
Boating Safety
New York Law requires all motorboat operators to have completed a boating safety course by 2025. Anyone successfully completing the course may opt to have a small anchor icon added to their DMV document, attesting that they have earned a New York State boating safety certificate. Find out more about completing a boating safety course on the Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation website.
The Empire Pass provides unlimited day use vehicle entry to most state parks and recreation facilities. Please Note: New York residents who purchase a Lifetime Empire Pass with a photo document from the DMV will automatically receive a reprint that has a maple leaf vanity icon to show their support for NYS Parks. The maple leaf vanity icon cannot be used at the park for entrance. Find information on the different types of passes on the Parks website.
Available Privileges and Associated Icons
| Lifetime (Includes both hunting & fishing) |   | Lifetime Hunting | |
| Lifetime Bowhunting |  | Lifetime Trapping |  |
| Lifetime Muzzleloading |  | Lifetime Fishing (Freshwater) | |
| Boating Safety Certificate |  | Lifetime Empire Passport (Parks) |  |
Fees
When you purchase your lifetime sporting license or complete your boating safety certification training, you can choose to have these “Adventure” icons added to your NY State Driver license and non-driver ID.
- You may request a new DMV ID immediately for a fee of $12.50 for a Driver License and $5.00 for a non-driver ID, or wait for your next license renewal at no charge.
- If you purchase a Lifetime Empire Passport, you will automatically receive a new license at no cost.