Can Game Wardens in the Field Find My License Through My CDL?

June 2, 2011

Question: Under the new electronic license system in California, do I still need my fishing license with me, or is my California driver license (CDL) all that I need? What about the enhancement stickers and second rod stamps? Are all of these accessible by wardens in the field? (Josh V.)

Answer: No, by statute, you still must have the actual license in your possession. The licenses are not tied to the CDL database system and so game wardens have no way of looking them up. If you are caught without proper licenses and stamps in your immediate possession, you will likely be cited.