Republic of Ireland online deer hunter licence application goes live

The National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) has developed a new online platform to help improve efficiency and streamline how deer hunting licences are processed. This move aims to make it easier and faster for hunters to obtain their licenses in time for the start of the season.

NPWS will make the application process for the Deer Hunting License (DHL) completely online through the Heritage Online Portal which goes live on Tuesday 4 June, 2024. This new platform makes the process paperless and the most efficient method for hunters across the country to apply for their licences.

With the introduction of the online system, applications via post or email will be phased out.

What you need to do:

You will need to set up and maintain your user account on the NPWS Heritage Licensing Portal.

You must upload the following documents when applying:

• A passport-style photograph.
• Firearms License Certificate/ or proof of firearm purchase

For first-time hunters, a Certificate of Competence is a mandatory step. However, this is optional for renewing applicants.

Like the PSNI firearms application process, NPWS no longer requires written landowner permissions. Instead, applicants will complete a declaration regarding land permission and compliance with the updated Wildlife Act 1976. (Countryside Alliance Ireland would encourage members to keep a physical copy of land permission in case of any disputes).

Help and Support

There will be an FAQ section on the portal to assist applicants throughout the transition and application process, which will be backed up with a dedicated phone helpline. Portal access details will be provided through the NPWS website.

Licenses

Licenses will be issued electronically, ensuring a timely delivery before the hunting season begins. (Countryside Alliance Ireland suggests members print a copy for their own records).

Preparations

We encourage all our members to familiarise themselves with this new system before it goes live. This represents a significant shift in the licensing process across Ireland. While NPWS’s online platform promises greater efficiency, which we hope goes smoothly, we may see some teething issues CAI would ask members to be patient and use the support services as indicated above.

In order to assist you and your members with registering for the new e-licensing system:

• Screenshot walk through of how to register on the new Heritage Licensing Portal here
• Screenshot walk through of how to submit a renewal application here

If anyone has a problem registering for the system, they should email licensing@housing.gov.ie

If anyone has questions in relation to applying for their Deer Hunting Licence they should contact Wildlife Licensing Unit:

• deerlicences@npws.gov.ie
• Call 01-8883242