The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has announced their new DEC Automated Licensing System (DECALS).

DECALS is an overwork of the previous licensing system designed to incorporate more user-friendly information to help users locate vendors, receive instant copies of a license, and enter and view harvest information and more.

As the system progresses and new features are added and updated, DECALS will include events calendars with upcoming season dates including youth hunts, clinics, and free fishing days. Full integration with the DEC’s Hunter Education Program which would make it easier to register for courses and automatically update certifications, and auto-renewal options for all annual licenses.

You can access DECALS by phone and online at 866-933-2257 Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm, or visit the DECALS website in order to buy licenses online. New York State is expected to have their 1,100 licensing agents up and running on the new DECALS system soon.

“The new automated DECALS licensing system makes it simpler than ever before for New Yorkers to purchase fishing, hunting, and trapping licenses from the comfort of their homes, either over the phone or online. We’re committed to improving outdoor enthusiasts’ experiences from start to finish, and the new DECALS is one of the many ways New York will continue to meet the needs of our sporting community so they can focus on enjoying the abundant fishing, hunting, and trapping opportunities available throughout the state.” Says Basil Seggos, Commissioner of the DEC on their new licensing system. Click the following links to learn more about DECALS on the DEC’s website, to find more information on recreational opportunities in New York State, or to check out their Hunter Education Program.