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 hunting season.
For the first time, every U.S. hunter can now purchase an electronic Federal Duck Stamp that is valid for the entire 2024-25 hunting season.
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 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 migratory bird hunters. A physical stamp will still be delivered in the mail for all purchasers.
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 hunting season, providing more flexibility for hunters.
Note: The E-stamp provides a bar code as your legal federal permit for the 2024-25 hunting season, with the physical stamp mailed to you after March 10, 2025. Both options support vital wildlife habitat conservation and meet legal hunting requirements.
Federal Duck Stamps are produced annually by the USFWS and are legally required for all migratory bird hunters. These stamps are also essential for wetland conservation. By law, 98% of the purchase price directly funds the protection of wetlands and associated migratory bird 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