Federal Duck E-Stamps: What You Need to Know
For the first time, every U.S. hunter can now purchase an electronic Federal Duck Stamp that is valid for the entire 2024-25 waterfowl hunting season.
August 29, 2024 •
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Duck Stamp 2024-2025, Chuck Black/USFWS
The 2024-25 waterfowl season is nearly here and that means it is time to go get your duck stamps. Although many of us are used to waiting in line at the post office to get our prized stamps, this year, hunters have other options.
Last December, the Duck Stamp Modernization Act of 2023 was signed into federal law. This new legislation allows waterfowl hunters to carry an electronic Federal Duck Stamp (E-stamp) for the entire hunting season. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has worked to implement this new law in time for the 2024-25 hunting season and it is now officially available for all hunters. A physical stamp will still be delivered in the mail for all purchasers.
Key Changes Under the Duck Stamp Modernization Act
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Extended Validity for E-Stamps: Previously, an electronic duck stamp was valid for only 45 days after purchase. The new law extends the validity of E-stamps for the entire waterfowl hunting season, providing more flexibility for hunters.
Note: The E-stamp provides a bar code as your legal federal permit for the 2024-25 waterfowl hunting season, with the physical stamp mailed to you after March 10, 2025. Both options support vital waterfowl habitat conservation and meet legal hunting requirements. - Improved Access and Convenience: The 2024-25 Federal Duck E-stamps are available to purchase online through many states, and physical stamps can also now be ordered online through the USFWS-recommended duckstamp.com.
Note: Federally valid E-stamps can be purchased through any of the 30 state agencies listed here without the need to purchase any state licenses or tags in that specific state. - Cost and Availability: The cost of an E-stamp is $29, which includes a $25 stamp fee and a $4 federal processing fee. Some states may charge other fees. Click here for more information on buying E-stamps.
Federal Duck Stamp Program
Federal Duck Stamps are produced annually by the USFWS and are legally required for all waterfowl hunters. These stamps are also essential for wetland conservation. By law, 98% of the purchase price directly funds the protection of wetlands and associated waterfowl habitats through land purchases, leases, and conservation easements. Lands purchased with Duck Stamp dollars become part of the National Wildlife Refuge System (NWRS), a dedicated network of U.S. lands and waters set aside for wildlife conservation.
To learn more on the duck stamp program, visit our dedicated duck stamp page.
Media Contact:
Nathan Ratchford
Conservation Communications Coordinator
(570) 406-4925
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