Commercial Guide License Requirements

Commercial Guide License Applications

All Commercial Guide License Applications must be mailed to:

Please allow 3 to 4 weeks for processing. No in-person submissions will be accepted at this time.

Require documentation of Hunter Education Certification for all hunting guides.

Require documentation of Boater Education Certification for all guides utilizing a boat. As with Hunter Education, guides who have not yet completed the course may obtain their Boating Safety Certification under the Boater Education Section.

Require documentation of a criminal records check through the Kentucky State Police (KSP). To obtain a Background Check Release Authorization Form, don't hesitate to get in touch with the KSP Name Search Section at 502-227-8700, Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. EST. A $20 fee is charged for each background check. The completed authorization form and accompanying fee must be submitted in person or by mail. Please advise the KSP that the background check is for a Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources Commercial Guide's License.

Require CPR and First Aid certifications.

A commercial guide applicant who possesses a valid United States Coast Guard Captain's License (“six-pack”) and will guide on a United States Coast Guard-regulated waterway may submit a copy of this license in lieu of the boater education course, CPR, and First Aid certification.

If you wish to renew your license, please fill out the application; attach documentation regarding certifications, State Police background check, and application fee, and mail to KDFWR, Law Enforcement, #1 Sportsman's Lane, Frankfort, KY 40601.