Special Licenses for Disabled Hunters for New York

Non-Ambulatory Hunter Permit

This permit allows qualified hunters to shoot a firearm from a motorized vehicle (including an off-road vehicle) that has the motor turned off and that is completely off the highway right-of-way.

Hunters who have been issued a Non-Ambulatory Hunter Permit and a license to take deer may take a deer of either sex in any area of New York that is open to deer hunting with firearms.

To qualify for a Non-Ambulatory Hunter Permit a person must be physically unable to move about except with the use of a mechanized aid such as a wheelchair.

Handicapped Archer Permit

This permit allows qualified people to hunt big or small game with a legal bow that is equipped with a device to hold it in a drawn and cocked position. This permit does not allow the use of a cross-bow.

To qualify for a Handicapped Archer Permit a person must be permanently physically unable to draw and hold a legal bow.

Modified Crossbow Permit

This permit allows qualified people to hunt big or small game with a crossbow that has been specifically modified with a device that only allows it to be discharged (fired) by means of a breath tube. This permit does not allow the use of an unmodified crossbow.

To qualify for a Modified Crossbow Permit a person must be permanently physically unable to hold or draw a legal bow or to fire a legal bow that has been modified to hold and release the string. If a person can pull the trigger on a gun, he or she will not qualify for a Modified Crossbow Permit.

For information on Non-Ambulatory Hunter Permits, Handicapped Archer Permits or Modified Crossbow Permits write or call the DEC Special Licenses Unit, 50 Wolf Road, Albany, NY 12233-4752 or (518) 457-0689. The application process for these permits takes time, write or call before you intend to hunt.

Disabled Veterans

Veterans with service-related disability of 40% or more (annual proof required) can get reduced fee hunting and fishing licenses and preference for Deer Management Permits. For more information about reduced fee licenses and permit preference, contact DEC regional offices or the Deer Management Permit Information Hotline: 1-888-HELPDMP (1-888-435-7367).