Turn Your NYS License to an Adventure License

Ready for your next New York State adventure?

What's a New York State Adventure License?

Earlier this month, NY State Parks and Historic Sites announced the addition of a new type of license.

No, it has nothing to do with the Real ID, but this one is said to make things easier for New Yorkers looking for their next outdoor adventure.

The New York State Adventure License program allows "lifetime license and safety certificate holders the option to apply icons to their DMV-issued drivers license, permit, or non-driver ID" according to the NY Parks Facebook page.

If you have purchased a Lifetime Sporting Licenses, Boating Safety Certificates, or Lifetime Empire Passports icons can be added to your New York State ID indicating such, making it easier to embark on those out door adventures.

Take a look below at the icons that are available for the NYS Adventure ID below:

NY.GOV

How to Get Your New York State Adventure License

Those eligible for the Adventure License are those New York State residents that have completed a boating safety course, those that have applied for a lifetime hunting, fishing or trapping license and those who have the Empire Pass.

To get your New York State Adventure License one may request a new DMV ID immediately for a $12.50 fee for a regular drivers license ($5 for a non-driver ID) or wait until your next license renewal where there will be no fee.

Those who purchase a Lifetime Empire Passport will "automatically recieve a new license at no cost" according to the DMV.

What ID Do You Need to Travel in New York?

Do you need an Adventure License to travel? Not at all, but there are new rules in place when it comes to traveling with specific identification.

Read More: REAL ID Chaos Hits New York

As of May 7th, 2025, a Real ID or an alternative form of identification (i.e. a passport) is now required for domestic air travel.

Those without a Real ID have faced additional screening times during their time at airports making travel difficult and time consuming.

New York State Free Fishing Days 2025

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the return of New York State's free fishing days for 2025. There are other programs offered like a rod loaner program and a learn to fish program. The license requirement will be waived for freshwater fishing on the following dates:

Gallery Credit: Canva