agent handbook for issuing pennsylvania fishing licenses ... · f) license year 5 g) customer...
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Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission
Agent Handbook for Issuing
Pennsylvania Fishing Licenses and Permits
PALS Edition
Contact Information
Direct equipment or electronic license issuing related questions for the Pennsylvania Automated Licensing Service (PALS) to the
Helpdesk at:
WebPOS Users
1-800-964-7705
VeriFone Users
1-800-280-4853
Representatives are available to assist you
24 Hours a Day, 7 Days a Week
Direct all other questions and correspondence to:
Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission
Division of Licensing and Registration
P.O. Box 67000
Harrisburg, PA 17106-7000
www.fishandboat.com
Telephone:
1-877-707-4085
(717) 705-7930
Fax: (717) 705-7931
Office Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday
Closed on State Holidays
Physical Address for UPS, FedEx, DHL, etc.:
Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission
Division of Licensing and Registration
1601 Elmerton Avenue
Harrisburg, PA 17110-9299
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Table of Contents
PFBC Regional Offices 4
SECTION I - General Information
A) PFBC Web Site 5
B) PALS Helpdesk 5
C) PFBC Agent Portal 5
D) Agent Email 5
E) Agent Responsibilities 5
F) License Year 5
G) Customer Identification Number (CID) 5
H) Senior Resident Lifetime Licenses 5
I) Social Security Number Requirements 5
J) Federal Assistance 6
SECTION II - Pennsylvania Fishing Licenses & Permits
A) License & Permit Prices 7
B) Multi-Year License and Permit Prices 8
C) License Certificate 9
D) Fishing License Types 11
E) Stamp & Permit Types 12
F) Multi-Year Fishing License Types 15
G) Multi-Year Stamp and Permit Types 15
H) Qualifications/Requirements for Resident Licenses 16
I) Military Personnel Exemption (Active Duty Only) 16
J) Selling a PALS License 17
K) Vouchers 19
L) Redeeming a Voucher 19
M) Replacement Licenses 20
N) Voids, Reversals, and Reprints 20
O) The Outdoor Shop 22
SECTION III – Issuing Agent Operations
A) Application for Fishing License Issuing Agency 22
B) Issuing Agent Agreement 22
C) Sub-Agents Prohibited 22
D) Bond Coverage 22
E) Banking 22
F) Automatic Clearing House/Electronic Funds Transfer 22
G) Insufficient Funds 22
H) Voided Licenses 22
I) Ordering Supplies 23
J) Compliance 23
K) Inspections 23
SECTION IV - Instructions for County Treasurers and PFBC Regional Law Enforcement Offices
A) Disabled Veterans (DAV) 24
B) Reduced Disabled Veteran 24
C) National Guard/Armed Forces Reserve 24
D) Prisoner of War (POW) 24
E) Senior Resident Lifetime Prisoner of War (POW) 24
F) No License Required 24
G) Records Retention 24
H) Voided Licenses 24
I) Senior Resident Lifetime Upgrade 24
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SECTION V – Issuing Use Permit Decals
A) General Information 25
B) Issuing a Use Permit Through PALS 25
C) Issuing a Use Permit Decal “Over the Counter” 25
D) Reports 26
E) Agent 26
SECTION VI – Charter Boat/Fishing Guide’s Guide
A) General Information 27
B) Applicant and Permit Information 28
C) Display of Permits and Decals 28
D) Other Requirements 28
E) Special Issuing Agents for Fishing Licenses 29
F) General Fishing License Agent Information 29
Sample Forms
PFBC-769, Application for PFBC Unpowered Boat Use Permit 30
PFBC-UP001, Issuing Agent’s Use Permit Decal Report 31
PFBC-770, Use Permit Supply Request 32
PFBC-L-102, PALS Void Log 33
PFBC-L-101, Affidavit of Pennsylvania Residency and/or
Affidavit Pertaining to Social Security Number 34
U. S. Veteran’s Administration Sample Letter 35
PFBC-G-1, Charter Boat/Fishing Guide Application 36
Completed Charter Boat/Fishing Guide Application 37
Charter Boat/Fishing Guide Renewal Application 38
Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission Regulations
For Issuing Agents 39
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PFBC Regional Law Enforcement Offices - Direct questions regarding the eligibility of applicants or other regulatory issues to your
local office.
NORTHWEST REGION –
11528 State Highway 98, Meadville, PA 16335
814-337-0444 ♦ Fax: 814-337-0579
Counties - Butler, Clarion, Crawford, Erie, Forest, Lawrence, Mercer, Venango, Warren
SOUTHWEST REGION –
236 Lake Road, Somerset, PA 15501-1644
814-445-8974 ♦ Fax: 814-445-3497
Counties - Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Cambria, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Somerset, Washington, Westmoreland
NORTHCENTRAL REGION -
595 East Rolling Ridge Drive, Bellefonte, PA 16823
814-359-5250 ♦ Fax: 814-359-5254
Counties - Cameron, Centre, Clearfield, Clinton, Elk, Jefferson, Lycoming, McKean, Montour, Northumberland, Potter, Snyder,
Tioga, Union
SOUTHCENTRAL REGION -
1704 Pine Road, Newville, PA 17241
717-486-7087 ♦ Fax: 717-486-8227
Counties - Adams, Bedford, Blair, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Fulton, Huntingdon, Juniata, Lebanon, Mifflin, Perry, York
NORTHEAST REGION –
5566 Main Road, Sweet Valley, PA 18656
570-477-5717 ♦ Fax: 570-477-3221
Counties - Bradford, Carbon, Columbia, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, Pike, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Wayne, Wyoming
SOUTHEAST REGION –
255 West Brubaker Valley Road, Box 9, Elm, PA 17521-0009
717-626-0228 ♦ Fax: 717-626-0486
Counties - Berks, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lancaster, Lehigh, Montgomery, Northampton, Philadelphia, Schuylkill
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SECTION I
General Information
A. Web Site - For the latest information on fishing and boating in Pennsylvania visit our web site at www.fishandboat.com.
B. PALS Helpdesk – If you encounter a Pennsylvania Automated Licensing Service (PALS) equipment malfunction or electronic
license issuing problem, call the Automated License Systems (ALS) Helpdesk immediately at 1-800-280-4853 for VeriFone
device users and at 1-800-964-7705 for WebPOS users.
C. Agent Portal - In an effort to keep fishing license issuing agents informed and improve communications, the PFBC has created
a dedicated webpage for issuing agents to view any updates from Licensing, forms, press releases, promotional items, and much
more. The Issuing Agent Portal page is available at: http://fishandboat.com/agentportal.htm. Login into the page using your
email address and PALS Terminal number. Please e-mail us with any questions or with suggestions to improve the portal.
D. Agent Email - PFBC is requiring all agents provide and maintain a current e-mail address with the Commission. Agents can
forward email addresses by sending an e-mail to [email protected]. Please include your business name and PALS
terminal number in the e-mail.
E. Agent Responsibilities - Fishing license issuing agents are required to keep an adequate supply of PALS License stock on hand
and available for sale to customers. PFBC issued supplies may be ordered through the VeriFone or WebPOS terminals.
Equipment and license stock remains the property of the PFBC and may be recalled or picked up at any time. All agents are
required to provide a copy of the Summary of Fishing Regulations & Laws booklet to any person requesting one.
All agents and their employees involved in issuing fishing licenses and permits and preparing the required reports should be
familiar with the PFBC’s regulations and policies that provide guidance on the sale, responsibility and accountability of fishing
licenses and permits. The regular and routine use of this handbook may eliminate many procedural problems. Digital version
of the handbook is available at: http://fishandboat.com/images/admin/lars/agents/agent_handbook_fish.pdf.
F. License Year - Licenses and permits, with the exception of 1-Day Tourist, 3-Day Tourist, 7-Day Tourist, 1-Day Resident,
Resident Lifetime and multi-year licenses and permits are valid for up to 13 months including the year printed on the license
and the month of December of the prior year.
G. Customer Identification Number (CID) - Each customer will receive a unique CID through PALS when purchasing a license
for the first time. The CID will remain with the customer and will appear on future PALS licenses.
H. Senior Resident Lifetime Licenses - All agents are permitted to sell Resident Senior Lifetime Licenses through PALS to
eligible individuals.
I. Social Security Number Requirements – Since 1998, purchasers of a Pennsylvania fishing license have been required to
provide their social security numbers when they apply to purchase a fishing license. This requirement is set forth in federal and
state laws on enforcement of child support obligations. Similar requirements apply to other state licenses, including drivers’
licenses and hunting licenses. By now, purchasers of fishing licenses and the issuing agents who sell the licenses should be
familiar with these requirements.
J. Social Security Number Exemption - The Department of Public Welfare announced an extension of the exemption from the
Title IV-D Child Support Enforcement law requiring collection of Social Security Numbers (SSN) for recreational licenses.
Individuals applying for a Pennsylvania Fishing License are permitted to provide a PA driver's license number or non-driver
identification number as an alternative to disclosing their Social Security number (SSN).
For customers wishing to take advantage of this exemption, agents must complete PFBC-L-101, Affidavit of Pennsylvania
Residency and/or Affidavit Pertaining to Social Security Number, recording the individual's PA driver's license number or non-
driver identification number.
After completing the PFBC-L-101 form, agents must contact the ALS Helpdesk, to obtain a customer identification number
(CID), at 1-800-280-4853 for VeriFone device users and at 1-800-964-7705 for WebPOS users or the Division of Licensing and
Registration at 1-877-707-4085 during our standard office hours, Monday through Friday 8:00A.M. To 4:00 P.M.
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K. Federal Assistance - The PFBC receives federal assistance in sport fish restoration and boating enhancement. Under Title VI
of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the U.S. Department of the Interior prohibits
discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, or disability. If you or any customer believes that they have been
discriminated against in any program, activity, or facility as described above or if you desire further information, please write
to:
Human Resources Office
Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission
P.O. Box 67000
Harrisburg, PA 17106-7000
Or
Office of Equal Opportunity
U.S. Department of the Interior
Washington, D.C. 20240
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SECTION II
Pennsylvania Fishing Licenses and Permits
A. License and Permit Prices
TYPE PRICE*
(includes all fees)
Resident $ 22.90
Senior Resident $ 11.90
Senior Resident Lifetime $ 51.90
1-Day Resident $ 11.90
Nonresident $ 52.90
7-Day Tourist $ 34.90
3-Day Tourist $ 26.90
1-Day Tourist $ 26.90
National Guard/Reserve Resident** $ 2.90
POW Resident** $ 2.90
POW Senior Resident Lifetime** $ 2.90
Reduced Disabled Veteran License** $ 2.90
Mentored Youth Permit $ 0.00
Voluntary Youth Fishing License $ 2.90
1-Year Trout/Salmon Permit # $ 9.90
Trout/Salmon Permit $ 9.90
3-Year Senior Lifetime Trout/Salmon Permit $ 25.90
5-Year Senior Lifetime Trout/Salmon Permit $ 41.90
10-Year Senior Lifetime Trout/Salmon Permit $ 81.90
Lake Erie Permit $ 9.90
Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie Permit $ 15.90
Lifetime Upgrade $ 11.90
Alternate Display Annual Fishing License Button $ 5.00
Alternate Display SOS Annual Fishing License Button $10.00
* Price includes $1.00 issuing agent fee and $0.90 electronic processing fee (Excluding the Mentored Youth Permit)
** Licenses available at County Treasurer offices and PFBC offices.
# Applies to Senior Lifetime purchased on or after 1/1/2015 or may also be purchased as a trout program donation.
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B. Multi-Year License and Permit Prices
TYPE
PRICE*
(includes all
fees)
3-Year Resident $ 64.90
3-Year Non-Resident $ 154.90
3-Year Senior Resident $ 31.90
3-Year Trout/Salmon Permit $ 25.90
3-Year Lake Erie Permit $ 25.90
3-Year Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie Permit $ 43.90
5-Year Resident $ 106.90
5-Year Non-Resident $ 256.90
5-Year Senior Resident $ 51.90
5-Year Trout/Salmon Permit $ 41.90
5-Year Lake Erie Permit $ 41.90
5-Year Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie Permit $ 71.90
10-Year Resident $ 211.90
10-Year Non-Resident $ 511.90
10-Year Trout/Salmon Permit $ 81.90
10-Year Lake Erie Permit $ 81.90
10-Year Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie Permit $141.90
1-Year Trout/Salmon Permit # $ 9.90
1-Year Lake Erie Permit *** $ 9.90
1-Year Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie Permit *** $ 15.90
Multi-Year Upgrade Card $11.90
Alternate Display Annual Fishing License Button $ 5.00
Alternate Display SOS Annual Fishing License Button $ 10.00
* Price includes $1.00 issuing agent fee and $0.90 electronic processing fee.
*** Permits apply only to multi-year licenses
# May also be purchased as a trout program donation.
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C. License Certificate - This constitutes and is recognized as the "LEGAL FISHING LICENSE" issued to a license buyer
desiring to fish or angle in Commonwealth waters.
1. DO NOT laminate licenses. They are printed on yellow heat-sensitive paper and lamination will cause darkening of the
license. Customers should be instructed of this when purchasing a license.
2. Instruct the license buyer to sign their license immediately upon receipt.
3. Different graphic types are displayed for the various licenses and permit privilege combinations. If no permit is purchased,
a Pennsylvania state graphic will be displayed. Please review the possible combinations and become familiar with how the
license should print and appear to the license buyer.
LICENSE WITH NO PERMIT
PRIVILEGES
LICENSE WITH
TROUT/SALMON AND LAKE
ERIE PERMIT PRIVILEGES
LICENSE WITH A
TROUT/SALMON PERMIT
PRIVILEGE
LICENSE WITH COMBINATION
PERMIT PRIVILEGES
LICENSE WITH A LAKE ERIE
PERMIT PRIVILEGE
1-DAY TOURIST
LICENSE WITH COMBO
PRIVILEGE
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MULTI YEAR LICENSE WITH
NO PERMIT
OUTDOOR SHOP INTERNET
LICENSE WITH
TROUT/SALMON PERMIT
PRIVILEGES
OUTDOOR SHOP INTERNET
LICENSE WITH A
TROUT/SALMON PERMIT
PRIVILEGE
MULTI YEAR LICENSE WITH
MULTI YEAR TROUT/SALMON
PERMIT PRIVILEGE
SENIOR LIFETIME LICENSE
AND 10YEAR MULTI-YEAR
TROUT/SALMON PRIVILEGE
PURCHASED AFTER 01/01/2015
SENIOR LIFETIME LICENSE
WITH LAKE ERIE PERMIT
PRIVILEGE
SENIOR LIFETIME LICENSE
WITH LAKE ERIE PERMIT AND
ANNUAL TROUT/SALMON
PRIVILEGE PURCHASED AFTER
01/01/2015
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D. Fishing License Types
1. Resident – Annual license issued to bona fide residents of Pennsylvania.
2. Senior Resident – Annual license issued to bona fide residents of Pennsylvania 65 years of age and over. Buyers may
purchase a Senior Resident License anytime during the license year that they reach 65.
3. Senior Resident Lifetime – Lifetime license issued to bona fide residents of Pennsylvania 65 years of age and over.
Buyers may purchase a Senior Resident Lifetime license anytime in the calendar year that they turn 65 years of age.
4. 1-Day Resident – Issued to bona fide residents of Pennsylvania for one 24-hour period, and are not valid from March 15th
through April 30th. Customer must specify the start time and date of intended use. The license will be valid for the 24-
hour period following the specified time.
5. Nonresident – Annual license issued to nonresidents of Pennsylvania.
6. 7-Day Tourist - Issued for seven consecutive days. Customer must specify the starting date.
7. 3-Day Tourist - Issued for three consecutive days. Customer must specify the starting date.
8. 1-Day Tourist – Issued for one 24-hour period, and are not valid from March 15th
through April 30th. Customer must
specify the start time and date of intended use. The license will be valid for the 24-hour period following the specified
time. The license is all inclusive (includes all stamps & permits).
9. National Guard* – Annual license issued to resident service members who can provide documentation that within the
previous 24 months they were deployed overseas as a member of the National Guard or the reserve component of the
armed forces for a period of 60 consecutive days or more, or that they were released early from service because of an
injury or disease incurred in the line of duty.
If a service member who is eligible for a National Guard/Armed Forces Reserve license inadvertently purchases a resident
license, the Division of Licensing and Registration will process an appropriate refund.
10. Prisoner of War (POW)* – Annual license issued to resident service members who can provide documentation that
shows they were a prisoner of war.
11. Senior Resident Lifetime Prisoner of War (POW)* – Lifetime license issued to resident service members who can
provide documentation that shows they were a prisoner of war. Buyers may purchase a Senior Resident Lifetime POW
license anytime in the calendar year that they turn 65.
12. Disabled Veteran* - Issued to disabled veterans who meet certain qualifications. Please refer to page 24 for
qualifications.
13. Reduced Disabled Veteran* - Any disabled veteran who has a disability incurred in any war or armed conflict that
consists of the loss of one or more limbs, or total blindness, or who is between 60 and 99 percent disabled as certified by
the United States Veterans Administration and is a resident of this Commonwealth.
*This license is sold only at county treasurer, PFBC headquarters, and the six PFBC law enforcement regional offices.
14. Mentored Youth Permit and Voluntary Youth Fishing license - The Mentored Youth Fishing Permit is free, and the
Voluntary Youth Fishing License is $2.90 ($1.00 cost plus $1.90 in agent/transaction fee).
While both the permit and the Voluntary Youth Fishing License provide the opportunity for youth to fish on Mentored
Youth Fishing Days, the Voluntary Youth Fishing License provides an extended return for both Pennsylvania’s youth and
the Commission. For each license purchased for $2.90, the Commission receives $5 back in funding as a federal
reimbursement. These funds are dedicated to be used in youth outreach and education programs. The Commission receives
no federal reimbursement for Mentored Youth Permits.
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15. Alternate Display Annual Fishing License Button –
Available to all current, adult and youth Pennsylvania fishing license customers who
possess a valid Pennsylvania fishing license that enables them to fish for the entire year.
Lifetime Senior License and Multi-Year License holders can also purchase the buttons.
For all eligible customers, the buttons are NOT required by law, and they are an optional
purchase.
Use of a valid Alternate Display Annual Fishing License Button meets the fishing license
display requirement as long as the angler has a license certificate in their possession.
16. Replacements – Replacement licenses can be issued to customers for licenses and permits that are lost or destroyed. All
license types may be replaced. Replacement licenses include all previously purchased stamps or permits (privileges) that
printed on the base license. The total cost for a replacement license and previously purchased permit or privilege that
printed on the base license is $6.90.
Stamps or permits (privileges) that do not print of the base license include the 140 1-yr Trout-Salmon, a 141 1-yr Lake
Erie, a 142 1-yr Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie, a 143 3-yr senior lifetime Trout-Salmon, a 144 5-yr senior lifetime
Trout-Salmon and a 145 10-yr senior lifetime Trout-Salmon. If a customer purchased one of these stamps or permits
(privileges), a replacement for these stamps or permits (privileges) will need to be processed in addition to replacing the
license. The total cost for replacing these stamps or permits (privileges) is $6.90 each.
E. Stamp and Permit Types
In addition to fishing license requirements, Pennsylvania law provides that certain permits are required for the privilege to fish
in certain waters or for certain species of fish in Pennsylvania.
The license buyer must purchase, or have previously purchased, a fishing license in order to buy a stamp or permit (privilege).
If a license buyer previously purchased a fishing license and is requesting an additional stamp or permit (privilege), agents must
enter the customer’s information in PALS and confirm that a license was issued and that all information is correct before
proceeding to sell the stamp or permit (privilege). PALS will print the previously purchased license type and it will include the
newly issued or purchased stamp or permit (privilege).
The customer will only be charged by PALS for the additional stamps or permits (privileges) purchased. The agent is required
to instruct the customer to destroy any previously purchased license documents.
1. Trout/Salmon Stamp Permit
a. General - Trout/salmon anglers are required to purchase a trout/salmon permit when fishing for species of trout or
salmon in certain waters. The Trout/Salmon Stamp Permit privileges are valid for the year printed on the license
certificate and the month of December in the prior year.
b. Individuals Who Need a Trout/Salmon Permit- Go to the PFBC’s web site at www.fishandboat.com or refer to the
Summary of Fishing Regulations & Laws booklet.
c. Individuals Who Do NOT Need a Trout/Salmon Permit
i. Individuals less than 16 years of age.
ii. Individuals who are exempt from fishing license requirements or who are issued institutional fishing licenses.
iii. Individuals who purchased a Senior Resident Lifetime license and Trout-Salmon permit before January 1, 2015.
iv. Individuals who fish on "free fishing days."
v. Individuals who purchase One-Day Tourist licenses.
vi. Individuals who fish on certain waters are exempt from this requirement and the license buyer should consult
their Summary of Fishing Regulations & Laws booklet.
d. Special Note for Senior Resident Lifetime License Holders
Individuals who purchased a Senior Resident Lifetime License before January 1, 1991, are NOT required to buy a
permit.
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Beginning January 1, 2015, Senior Resident Lifetime License holders will be required to purchase a Trout/Salmon
Permit each year that the license holder desires to fish for trout or purchase a 3, 5 or 10 year multi-year trout/salmon
permit.
Senior Resident Lifetime License holders who purchased a Trout/Salmon Permit or a Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake
Erie Permit before January 1, 2015 are "grandfathered", they remain exempt from the requirement to purchase a
Trout/Salmon Permit annually. If the permit is lost, the license holder may purchase a replacement license. The
replacement license will include all previously purchased stamps or permits (privileges).
2. Lake Erie and Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie Permits
a. General – Anglers are required to purchase a Lake Erie or Combination Trout/Salmon Lake Erie permit privilege
when fishing in the waters of Lake Erie including Presque Isle Bay and the following Lake Erie tributaries:
i. Cascade Creek, Conneaut Creek, CrookedCreek, Eightmile Creek, Elk Creek, Fourmile Creek,Mill Creek,
Raccoon Creek, Sevenmile Creek, Sixmile Creek, Sixteenmile Creek, Turkey Creek, Twelvemile Creek,
Twentymile Creek and WalnutCreek.
The stamps or permits (privileges) are valid for the year printed on the license certificate and the month of
December in the prior year.
b. Individuals Who Need a Lake Erie Permit - All individuals not listed in paragraph C (below) are required to
purchase a permit, sign their name on the face of the license, and display the license and permit when fishing. For
more information, consult the Summary of Fishing Regulations & Laws booklet.
c. Individuals Who Do NOT Need a Lake Erie Permit i. Individuals less than 16 years of age.
ii. Individuals who are exempt from fishing license requirements or who are authorized to fish using an
institutional license.
iii. Individuals who fish on "free fishing days."
iv. Individuals who purchase One-Day Tourist licenses.
v. Individuals who fish on certain waters are exempt from this requirement and the license buyer should consult
their Summary of Fishing Regulations & Laws booklet.
d. Special Note for Senior Resident Lifetime License Holders - A person who purchases a Senior Resident Lifetime
License and fishes in Lake Erie or its tributaries is only required to purchase one Lake Erie Permit which is valid for
the licensee's lifetime. Also, if a Senior Resident Lifetime License holder purchases a combination permit on or after
January 1, 2015, the Lake Erie portion of the combo permit will be valid for the licensee's lifetime; however, Senior
Resident Lifetime License holders will be required to purchase a Trout/Salmon Permit each following year that the
license holder desires to fish for trout or purchase a 3, 5 or 10-year senior lifetime trout/salmon permit.
If selecting a Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie Permit, The Lake Erie permit will print on the base Senior
Lifetime license with no expiration date and the 1-year Trout-Salmon Permit will print on a separate license document
with an expiration date of 12/31.
3, 5 or 10-year senior lifetime trout/salmon permits or 1-Year Trout/Salmon Permits are to be folded in half lengthwise
and the permit’s print image is to be displayed on the left side of the license.
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3. Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie Permits - License buyers may purchase a combination permit in place of the
individual Trout/Salmon and Lake Erie permit. The net cost of the Combination Trout/Salmon Lake Erie Permit privilege
is $3.00 less than the combined cost of the individual permits.
When issuing a license through PALS, select both permit types. The system will automatically recognize the Combination
request and calculate the cost accordingly.
4. Additional Trout /Salmon Permits Available for Purchase as Donations - Beginning January 1, 2015, anglers who wish
to donate to the PFBC’s Stocked Trout Program can purchase additional 1-year trout-salmon permits (privilege code 140)
through PALS. Anglers can purchase more than one 1-year trout-salmon permits per fishing license year, but only one
permit per transaction.
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F. Multi-Year Fishing License Types
1. Resident – 3, 5 or 10 year multi-year license issued to bona fide residents of Pennsylvania.
2. Senior Resident – 3 or 5 year multi-year license issued to bona fide residents of Pennsylvania 65 years of age and over.
Buyers may purchase a multi-year Senior Resident License anytime during the license year that they reach 65.
3. Nonresident – 3, 5 or 10 year multi-year license issued to nonresidents of Pennsylvania.
4. Replacements – Replacement licenses can be issued to customers for licenses and permits that are lost or destroyed. All
license types may be replaced. Replacement licenses include all previously purchased stamps or permits (privileges).
G. Multi-Year Stamp and Permit Types
In addition to fishing license requirements, Pennsylvania law provides that certain permits are required for the privilege to fish
in certain waters or for certain species of fish in Pennsylvania.
The multi-year license buyer must purchase, or have previously purchased, a multi-year fishing license in order to buy a multi-
year stamp or permit (privilege). During the same license year the multi-year license was purchased, multi-year license buyers
may purchase a stamp or permit (privilege) that matches the expiration year of their multi-year license or purchase a 1-year
stamp or permit (privilege) that is valid for the year printed on the license certificate and the month of December in the prior
year. If purchasing a stamp or permit (privilege) for a multi-year license outside the license year the multi-year license was
purchased, the buyer would only have the option to purchase a 1-year stamp or permit (privilege) that is valid for the year
printed on the separate license certificate and the month of December in the prior year.
If a license buyer previously purchased a fishing license and is requesting an additional stamp or permit (privilege), agents must
enter the customer’s information in PALS and confirm that a license was issued and that all information is correct before
proceeding to sell the stamp or permit (privilege). PALS will print the previously purchased license type and it will include the
newly issued or purchased stamp or permit (privilege).
The customer will only be charged by PALS for the additional stamps or permits (privileges) purchased. The agent is required
to instruct the customer to destroy any previously purchased license documents.
5. Multi-Year Trout/Salmon Stamp Permit
a. General - Trout/salmon anglers are required to purchase a trout/salmon permit when fishing for species of trout or
salmon in certain waters. The Trout/Salmon Stamp Permit privileges are valid through the year printed on the license
certificate.
b. Individuals Who Need a Trout/Salmon Permit- Go to the PFBC’s web site at www.fishandboat.com or refer to the
Summary of Fishing Regulations & Laws booklet.
c. Individuals Who Do NOT Need a Trout/Salmon Permit
i. Individuals less than 16 years of age.
ii. Individuals who are exempt from fishing license requirements or who are issued institutional fishing licenses.
iii. Individuals who purchased a Senior Resident Lifetime license and Trout-Salmon permit before January 1, 2015.
iv. Individuals who fish on "free fishing days."
v. Individuals who purchase One-Day Tourist licenses.
vi. Individuals who fish on certain waters are exempt from this requirement and the license buyer should consult
their Summary of Fishing Regulations & Laws booklet.
MULTI-YEAR FISHING LICENSE
UPGRADE A durable plastic card version of the Multi-year
Fishing license is available. This upgrade is available
for $11.90 and can be purchased through
issuing agents or the Outdoor Shop.
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Multi-Year Lake Erie and Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie Permits
d. General – Anglers are required to purchase a Lake Erie or Combination Trout/Salmon Lake Erie permit privilege
when fishing in the waters of Lake Erie including Presque Isle Bay and the following Lake Erie tributaries:
i. Cascade Creek, Conneaut Creek, Crooked Creek, Eightmile Creek, Elk Creek, Fourmile Creek, Mill Creek,
Raccoon Creek, Sevenmile Creek, Sixmile Creek, Sixteenmile Creek, Turkey Creek, Twelvemile Creek,
Twentymile Creek and Walnut Creek.
The stamps or permits (privileges) are valid for the year printed on the license certificate.
e. Individuals Who Need a Lake Erie Permit - All individuals not listed in paragraph C (below) are required to
purchase a permit, sign their name on the face of the license, and display the license and permit when fishing. For
more information, consult the Summary of Fishing Regulations & Laws booklet.
f. Individuals Who Do NOT Need a Lake Erie Permit i. Individuals less than 16 years of age.
ii. Individuals who are exempt from fishing license requirements or who are authorized to fish using an
institutional license.
iii. Individuals who fish on "free fishing days."
iv. Individuals who purchase One-Day Tourist licenses.
v. Individuals who fish on certain waters are exempt from this requirement and the license buyer should consult
their Summary of Fishing Regulations & Laws booklet.
6. Multi-Year Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie Permits – Multi-Year license buyers may purchase a combination
permit in place of the individual Trout/Salmon and Lake Erie permit. The net cost of the Combination Trout/Salmon Lake
Erie Permit privilege is $7.90 less for a 3-year permit, $11.90 for a 5-year permit, and $3.00 for a 1-year permit than the
combined cost of the individual permits.
When issuing a license through PALS, select both permit types. The system will automatically recognize the Combination request
and calculate the cost accordingly.
H. Qualifications/Requirements for Resident Licenses
For all resident class licenses, applicants must furnish satisfactory "proof of residency" to the license agent. Resident class
licenses shall only be issued to bona fide residents of Pennsylvania. A bona fide resident is defined as a permanent resident
who has a fixed intent to return to Pennsylvania when he leaves and who maintains a permanent place of residence in
Pennsylvania. A person is not a bona fide resident while claiming residence in another state for any purpose.
One or a combination of the following documents must be presented:
1. Valid Pennsylvania driver's license
2. Valid Pennsylvania non-driver photo identification card
3. Current Pennsylvania Voter’s Registration Card
4. Proof of payment of Pennsylvania personal income tax as a resident of Pennsylvania; proof of payment of earned
income, personal income or per capita taxes showing residence in a Pennsylvania municipality.
If an applicant cannot furnish one of the documents listed above, they may complete a PFBC-L-101, Affidavit of Pennsylvania
Residency and/or Affidavit Pertaining to Social Security Number. The completed affidavit of residency will be investigated by
a Waterways Conservation Officer (WCO). When using this form, the original form must be submitted to the Division of
Licensing and Registration within 10 days. Individuals that falsely claim Pennsylvania residency may be subject to legal
action.
I. Military Personnel Exemption (Active Duty Only)
To be eligible for the military waiver, an angler must be a bona fide Pennsylvania resident, be on active duty, be stationed
outside Pennsylvania and be here on authorized leave. While in the act of fishing, the military personnel must carry proof of
each of these requirements, such as a Pennsylvania Driver’s License, his or her military ID, and valid military orders showing
his or her place of assignment and leave status.
Under the law, a qualifying soldier, sailor, airman or marine does not receive a free Pennsylvania fishing license; instead
eligible active duty military personnel can legally fish without a license under the limited circumstances outlined in the law.
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The Commission recommends anyone taking advantage of this provision display their military ID while in the act of fishing in
much the same way they would a conventional fishing license.
The law does not exempt military personnel on leave from any other requirements of fishing or boating laws and regulations.
They must comply with all applicable seasons, sizes creel limits and other requirements.
Military Personnel who are stationed in Pennsylvania under permanent change of station order (PCS) for 6 months or more
qualify for a Resident License. This also includes residents of Pennsylvania stationed outside Pennsylvania provided they do
not become a resident of another state.
Non-resident students attending college in Pennsylvania are not entitled to resident licenses if their permanent residence is not
in Pennsylvania.
All license types except the 1-Day Tourist may require the purchase of additional stamps or permits (privileges) depending on
what species of fish a customer intends to fish for and where a customer intends to fish.
J. Selling a PALS License
1. Have the customer provide proof of residency as this will determine the type of license they are eligible to purchase.
2. Input all requested customer information into PALS. For detailed instructions on selling a license, please refer to your
POS 3750 or WebPOS User’s Guide.
3. Special Note on Social Security Numbers (SSN)
a. A customer’s SSN only needs to be entered into PALS once. PALS will retain the SSN for all future license sales.
b. Obtaining a SSN from first time customers and inputting the number into PALS.
i. WebPOS users – provide the auxiliary keypad to the customer and allow the customer to enter his or her SSN.
ii. VeriFone users – when prompted, turn the device toward the customer and ask them to enter the SSN.
iii. Or, provide the customer with a piece of paper and ask the customer to write down the SSN and provide it to
you. Return the paper to the customer or destroy it.
iv. Or, ask if the customer is willing to provide their SSN to you verbally.
c. Customers are required to provide a SSN when purchasing a license for the first time.
i. Certain customers who want to purchase one of the resident class licenses (such as the Amish) may not have a
SSN. A customer who claims that they do not have a SSN must complete and sign form PFBC-L-101, Affidavit
of Pennsylvania Residency and/or Affidavit Pertaining to Social Security Number. All original signed PFBC-L-
101 forms must be forwarded to the Division of Licensing and Registration within ten days of the purchase.
Agents must call the ALS help desk to obtain a customer identification number.
ii. For non-resident U.S. citizens - Agents must call the ALS help desk to obtain a customer identification number.
iii. For non-resident alien customers – Agents must enter either the “Green Card”, “Passport”, or “VISA” number
in PALS.
4. Verify the customer information in PALS and update if necessary.
5. Select the license and/or stamps or permits (privileges) the customer wants to purchase.
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LICENSE
CODE FISHING LICENSE TYPE
101 Resident Annual
102 Non-Resident Annual
103 3-Day Tourist
104 Senior Resident Annual
105 Senior Resident Lifetime
106 1-Day Tourist
107 7-Day Tourist
108 1-Day Resident
109 Mentored Youth Permit
110 Voluntary Youth Fishing License
119 Reduced Disabled Veteran*
120 DAV Resident Lifetime*
121 DAV Senior Resident Lifetime*
122 DAV Resident Annual*
123 National Guard*
124 POW Senior Resident Lifetime*
125 POW Resident Annual*
135 Alternative Display Annual Fishing License Button
140 1-Year Trout/Salmon Permit
143 3-year Senior Lifetime Trout/Salmon Permit
144 5-year Senior Lifetime Trout/Salmon Permit
145 10-year Senior Lifetime Trout/Salmon Permit
150 Trout/Salmon Permit
151 Lake Erie Permit
152 Combination Trout/Salmon Lake Erie Permit
156 Senior Resident Lifetime Replacement (Pre-1991)
180 Lifetime Upgrade
*License is sold only at county treasurer, PFBC headquarters, and the six PFBC law enforcement regional offices.
LICENSE
CODE MULTIYEAR FISHING LICENSE TYPE
030 3-Year Resident
031 3-Year Non-Resident
032 3-Year Senior Resident
033 3-Year Trout/Salmon Permit
034 3-year Lake Erie Permit
035 3-Year Combination Trout/Salmon Lake Erie Permit
050 5-Year Resident
051 5-Year Non-Resident
052 5- Year Senior Resident
053 5-Year Trout/Salmon Permit
054 5-year Lake Erie Permit
055 5-Year Combination Trout/Salmon Lake Erie Permit
060 10-Year Resident
061 10-Year Non-Resident
063 10-Year Trout/Salmon Permit
064 10-year Lake Erie Permit
065 10-Year Combination Trout/Salmon Lake Erie Permit
140 1-Year Trout/Salmon Permit
141 1-Year Lake Erie Permit
142 1-Year Combination Trout/Salmon Lake Erie Permit
185 Multi-Year Upgrade Card
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6. Verify all information is correct and print the license.
7. Ensure that the correct type of license is issued. Agents must review each license after printing it before providing it to the
customer. If the license displays incorrect information or graphics, the license must be voided. If the license prints
incorrectly, the license must be reprinted immediately.
8. Give the license and receipt to the customer and provide only the last printed license.
9. Instruct the customer to sign the license.
10. Give the customer a Summary of Fishing Regulations & Laws booklet.
11. If you accept a personal check from an applicant, you must process the check. The check should be made payable to you
or your business.
12. Customers on the Revocation List: Customers who have their fishing privileges revoked or suspended will be stopped
from purchasing fishing licenses using the PALS system. Once the customer’s revocation period has expired or they have
satisfied all conditions of their suspension, they will be authorized to purchase a fishing license. Customers with questions
about their Commission initiated suspension/revocation status can contact the PFBC’s Bureau of Law Enforcement at 717-
705-7861. Customers with questions about their Child Support suspension/revocation can contact the Department of
Public Welfare at 1-800-932-0211, Option #4.
K. Vouchers - A voucher for a license and stamps or permits (privileges) may be purchased for another individual. Agents must
collect the first and last name of the customer in PALS when issuing a voucher. A voucher will be issued and may be redeemed
for a license or permit containing the privilege indicated on the voucher. The voucher is non-refundable and expires as noted.
Individuals wishing to purchase vouchers for Christmas presents need to wait until December 1 of that year before purchasing a
voucher. An agent who issues a voucher is entitled to collect the applicable issuing agent fee.
L. Redeeming a Voucher - Agents are required to destroy all redeemed vouchers. Agents redeeming a voucher must ensure that
the individual redeeming the voucher is eligible to purchase the license type listed on the voucher. For example, an agent may
not redeem a voucher for a resident fishing license for an individual who is not a resident of Pennsylvania.
Vouchers may be redeemed at any issuing agent.
A voucher is not a fishing license. Individuals that use a voucher to fish are in violation of the Fish and Boat Code and may be
subject to legal action.
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Agents who redeem a voucher are not entitled to collect any additional issuing agent fees and shall issue all corresponding
licenses and permits to the voucher holder. Agents must collect all the information requested through PALS when issuing a
license when redeeming a voucher.
Replacement of a Voucher -If a customer presents a receipt from the purchase of a voucher, the voucher can be replaced by
entering the voucher number printed on the receipt into PALS. If a receipt from the purchase of a voucher is not available, the
voucher number can be obtained by calling the ALS Help Desk or PFBC Headquarters and by providing the name of the person
who purchased the voucher.
M. Replacement License – PALS provides the ability to issue a replacement license when an original license is lost or destroyed.
Since the system retains customer purchase information, agents can retrieve it regardless of where the license was purchased.
Follow the instructions for the type of PALS equipment in use.
WebPOS – Enter the customer identification number into the terminal; any previously purchased privileges are listed in the
Replacement section.
VeriFone – Select the Replacement option on the main sales screen; all privileges listed in the system will be displayed,
including replacements. Although these items can be selected, the system will not permit the transaction to proceed if the
customer is not entitled to purchase a replacement of a particular privilege.
Senior Resident Lifetime Replacements - If there is evidence that an original license was purchased, a PALS replacement
shall be issued, regardless of the year it was originally issued. The customer may need only to provide the original license
number. If the license was purchased prior to PALS, please contact the Division of Licensing and Registration for instructions
and guidance.
To find a customer in PALS, the customer may need to provide one of the following:
Customer identification number,
U.S. Driver’s license number,
Social Security number, or
Alternative forms of identification for Non-US Citizens such as a “Green Card”, “Passport”, or “VISA”.
If you are unable to locate a customer in PALS, you must contact the Division of Licensing and Registration for assistance.
1. Selling Additional Stamps and Permits While Issuing a Replacement Senior Resident Lifetime License– Replacement
fishing licenses include all stamps or permits (privileges) previously purchased by the customer. However, customers may
need to buy additional stamps or permits (privileges) when replacing a license.
VeriFone Agents: To sell additional permits or stamps when purchasing a replacement license, do the following:
i. Issue a replacement license using the Replacements option on the menu. This will automatically print a replacement
license with all previously issued permits or stamps.
ii. Use the Sale option on the menu to issue the requested stamp or permit. A second license with the newly purchased
stamp or permit will print. Provide this license to the customer.
Web POS Agents:
i. Additional stamps or permits may be selected from the Stamps section of the menu during the time a replacement
license is issued. Only one license with the newly purchased stamp or permit will be printed. Provide the license to
the customer.
See SECTION II, Pennsylvania Fishing Licenses and Permits, for assistance on who needs a stamp or permit privilege.
N. Voids, Reversals, and Reprints
1. Voids
Voids are used when a problem with a transaction is discovered AFTER the document has printed (i.e. a typographical
error occurred, the customer’s address is not correct on the printed documents, or the customer selected the incorrect type
of license).
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If you void a license or any stamp or permit (privilege), you must retain the document and write ‘VOID’ across the license.
Agents using WebPOS equipment can void any license issued during the current day. VeriFone agents can only void the
last completed transaction and the void must occur within 15 minutes of the transaction. To void a stamp or permit
(privilege) issued outside of these parameters, agents must call the PALS Help Desk or PFBC Harrisburg Headquarters for
assistance.
Agents are responsible for ensuring that all voided documents are returned to the PFBC within fifteen (15) days of the
transaction. Agents that fail to return voided license documents to the PFBC may be charged for value of the voided
licenses and permits sold.
Report all voids by recording them on form PFBC-L-102, PALS Void Log and submit the voids along with the form to the
PFBC at:
Licensing Section – VOIDS
PA Fish & Boat Commission
P.O. Box 67000
Harrisburg, PA 17106-7000
2. Reversals
An agent may reverse a transaction if a problem is discovered BEFORE printing the document. Once a document is
printed, it cannot be reversed and must be voided.
3. Reprints
When a document fails to print properly (i.e. printer is out of paper, paper jam, etc.) agents shall reprint the license. There
is no charge or fees associated with a reprint.
Agents shall NOT use the reprint feature to issue a second copy of any document to be used as an “extra” license. The
agent shall issue and provide only one license document. All reprint requests are tracked by the system. Excessive
reprinting will be investigated by the Bureau of Law Enforcement.
WebPOS - Agents have two opportunities to reprint license documents:
Option 1. Upon conclusion of the transaction the WebPOS terminal will ask, “Did the license print correctly?” If you
answer No, another copy of the license documents will print and the reprint will be logged by PALS.
Option 2. Select the “Void/Reprint” option. This option allows a reprint of a license that was issuedwithin the same day
from when the original transaction was processed. To reprint any other documents, you must call the ALS Help Desk or
the PFBC headquarters.
VeriFone - Agents may reprint only the last license issued within 15 minutes of the completion of the transaction and if
it was the last transaction processed. To reprint any other documents, you must call the ALS Help Desk or the PFBC
headquarters.
O. The Outdoor Shop (www.pa.wildlifelicense.com) - An individual who purchased a fishing license through the PFBC’s PALS
powered Outdoor Shop, or internet based license sales outlet, may purchase a replacement license at any issuing agent. All
licenses purchased at an issuing agent can also be replaced on the Outdoor Shop.
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SECTION III
Issuing Agent Operations
Issuing agents are appointed by the PFBC to sell and distribute fishing licenses and permits, and to distribute PFBC authorized
information and materials to potential or active fishing license and permit holders and buyers.
A. Application for Fishing License Issuing Agency – All Fishing License Issuing Agents must complete and submit an
Application for Fishing License Issuing Agency and a $ 150.00 non-refundable application fee.
B. Issuing Agent Agreement – All Fishing License Issuing Agents must complete and submit a Fishing License Issuing Agent
Agreement. This Agreement covers all Issuing Agent operations pertaining to the issuance of fishing licenses and permits
through PALS at the business location described in the original Application for Fishing License Issuing Agency or the
application as amended by the Issuing Agent. Agents are permitted to sell licenses and permits only at the business location
specified in the application or approved by the PFBC, and at a place on the premises accessible to the public.
C. Sub-Agents Prohibited - Issuing agents, including county treasurers, are not permitted, under any circumstances, to appoint
sub-agents to issue fishing licenses or permits. Violation may result in the loss of an agent's authority to issue fishing licenses
and permits.
D. Bond Coverage - The minimum required bond coverage for each new agent location is $12,000.00. Existing issuing agents are
required to secure a bond in an amount determined by the combined value of the following items:
the two (2) highest EFT drafts that occurred during the opening days of trout season,
the replacement cost of the PALS equipment, and
if applicable, the value of any boat launch permits.
The PFBC will review, every three (3) years, the bond amounts for each issuing agent to determine whether an adjustment is
needed based on the above criteria.
There is no limit to how large a bond may be. An agent shall secure a sufficient bond amount to cover its projected highest
weekly license sales dollar amount.
E. Banking – Issuing Agents must maintain a bank account in a federally insured financial institution organized under the
authority of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or the United States. All money received from the sale of licenses and
permits, less the amount retained according to law as the Issuing Agent Fee, shall be deposited in the designated bank account.
The bank account must be able to accept Electronic Fund Transfers (EFT). Issuing Agents must notify the PFBC at least fifteen
(15) days prior to changing banks, account numbers, ownership status, business status, or other information used for the
purpose of collecting monies owed.
F. Automated Clearing House (ACH)/Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)-
ACH and/or EFT refer to the process of electronically collecting license sales revenue. As part of the agent agreement process,
agents are required to sign an ACH authorization agreement. This permits the PFBC to collect all funds due via an EFT from a
designated bank account.
Agents should print a PALS ACH report each week by running the ACH Inquiry transaction. This report should be run every
Tuesday and will show the previous week’s transaction totals and the amount of the EFT. Each weekly report shows all
transactions that occurred from 12:01 am Tuesday morning of the prior week through the following Monday at midnight. EFT
transactions will occur on the Thursday following the weekly EFT closeout period of midnight Monday. If discrepancies are
discovered, contact the PFBC immediately.
G. Insufficient Funds - Issuing Agents must have sufficient funds available in their designated bank account at the time of the
EFT for all licenses sold through the PALS system. Upon notification of insufficient funds for payment, PALS will
immediately suspend an Agent’s authority to issue license and permits and a $15.00 charge will be applied to the Agent. If an
agent fails an EFT three weeks in a row, the Bureau of Law Enforcement will dispatch a WCO to the business to collect the
PALS equipment and any funds due to the Commission. If funds can’t be collected, a bond claim will be filed for collection.
H. Voided Licenses - Agents shall use form PFBC-L-102, PALS Void Log when submitting all voided licenses. All voids shall be
submitted within fifteen (15) days of the date of their issuance. Issuing agents are responsible for the license fees associated
with all voids not returned within the specified time frame. PFBC may collect license fees associated with voids through
subsequent EFT transactions.
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I. Ordering Supplies – Issuing Agents shall order PALS supplies and PFBC issued materials through the VeriFone or WebPOS
terminals.
J. Compliance - Agents that fail to comply with the rules and regulations regarding the operation of the agency or the issuance of
licenses or permits are subject to legal action initiated by the Bureau of Law Enforcement and subsequent revocation of the
issuing agency.
K. Inspections - Issuing agents shall allow PFBC personnel access to all records and equipment related to the PALS operation.
Issuing agents shall allow access to PFBC personnel to make inspections during reasonable business hours, with or without
advance notice, to determine whether the agent is in compliance with the laws and regulations governing the operation of the
agency.
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SECTION IV
Instructions for County Treasurers and
PFBC Offices
A. Disabled Veterans (DAV) – Certain service members qualify for a no fee Resident or Senior Resident Lifetime fishing license
and permits. For permanently disabled veterans that meet the requirements, a Resident or Senior Resident Lifetime License
shall be issued. A Combination Stamp graphic will be printed on all DAV licenses, the PALS system is programmed to do this
automatically.
a. To qualify for a DAV license and permits, service members must:
Be a bona fide resident of Pennsylvania and be a war or armed conflict veteran; and have a disability
incurred in any war or armed conflict, consisting of 100% or total disability as certified by the United
States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA); or total blindness; or loss of one or more limbs; or loss of use
of one or more limbs.
Present a letter from the VA, with a claim number, verifying the disability or injury. This is the only
acceptable verification. A medical card is not acceptable. A copy of the VA letter must be kept on file by
the Treasurer. Documentation from the VA must state that the disability or injury is total and permanent.
Have an injury or disability that was incurred during a period of war or armed conflict. The qualifying
disability does not have to be combat incurred.
b. Maintain a copy of the VA letter on file.
c. Do not issue Senior Resident Licenses to disabled veterans.
B. Reduced Disabled Veteran - Any disabled veteran who has a disability incurred in any war or armed conflict that consists of
the loss of one or more limbs, or total blindness, or who is between 60 and 99 percent disabled as certified by the United States
Veterans Administration and is a resident of this Commonwealth.
C. National Guard/Armed Forces Reserve – Annual license issued to resident service members who can provide documentation
that within the previous 24 months they were deployed overseas as a member of the National Guard or the reserve component
of the armed forces for a period of 60 consecutive days or more, or that they were released early from service because of an
injury or disease incurred in the line of duty.
If a service member who is eligible for a National Guard/Armed Forces Reserve license inadvertently purchases a resident
license, the Division of Licensing and Registration will process an appropriate refund. Direct all requests for refunds of
this nature to the Division of Licensing and Registration.
D. Prisoner of War (POW) – Annual license issued to resident service members who can provide documentation that shows they
were a prisoner of war.
a. Service member must provide official military documentation stating that they were a POW.
E. Senior Resident Lifetime Prisoner of War (POW) – Lifetime license issued to resident service members who can provide
documentation that shows they were a prisoner of war and meet the age requirements for a Senior Resident Lifetime License.
a. Service member must provide official military documentation stating that they were a POW.
F. No License Required - Any person who is a bona fide resident of Pennsylvania and is classified as totally blind or severely
disabled so that they are unable to cast or retrieve a line or bait hooks (see Section 2709 Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Code Act
1980-175) is exempt from license requirements, including permits.
G. Records Retention – Records and voids shall be retained as required by the Department of the Auditor General for audit
purposes.
H. Voided Licenses – All County Treasurers shall retain voided licenses, which must be kept on file to be audited by the Auditor
General.
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I. Senior Resident Lifetime Upgrade – Anglers who purchased a Senior Resident Lifetime license can now purchase a more
durable, plastic license. Request forms for the upgrade can be obtained on the PFBC website or the upgrade may be purchased
through PALS. The durable card style upgrade will be mailed by the Division of Licensing and Registration to the customer.
SENIOR RESIDENT LIFETIME LICENSE
UPGRADE A durable plastic card version of the Senior Resident
Lifetime license is available. This upgrade is
availablefor $11.90 and can also be purchased
through issuing agents or the Outdoor Shop
SECTION V
Issuing Use Permit Decals
A. General Information – Use Permit Decals are designed to provide the unpowered boater a quick
and easy way to get their boat on the water without going through the boat registration process.
Note: this is not a registration. Owners of unpowered boats (canoes, kayaks, rowboats, etc) can
launch their boats at Commonwealth owned lakes and access areas under the management of the
PFBC if their boat has a current registration or if it displays a valid PFBC Use Permit Decal. State
Parks launch and mooring permits are also recognized at PFBC lakes and access areas; PFBC Use
Permit Decals will be recognized at State Parks and State Forests lakes and access areas.
B. Issuing a Use Permit through PALS - The sale of 1-year and 2-year Launch (Use) Permits were added to PALS and as a
current fishing license issuing agent you will have access to this additional feature without increasing your current Fishing
Licensing bond. Launch (Use) Permits sales through PALS will be included in the weekly PALS EFT as fishing licenses and
no report is needed to be submitted to PFBC.
a. Cost - The cost is $12.90 for a one-year permit which will expire December 31st of the year it is issued. The cost for a
two-year permit is $20.90 which will expire December 31st of the year after it is issued. Price includes a $1.00 issuing
agent fee, $1.00 shipping & handling fee and $0.90 transaction fee for each use permit sold.
i. Enter customer and unpowered boat information in PALS.
ii. Print a temporary Launch (use) Permit which is valid for 30 days.
iii. The customer will receive the launch (use) permit decals in the mail within 2-3 weeks.
iv. Please instruct the boater, when the decals are received, that the Launch (Use) Permit Decal must be clearly
displayed on each side of the boat between the middle (amidships) and the rear (stern) just below the top of
the hull (gunwale). For low-volume boats, such as kayaks, decals may be placed on the deck between
amidships and the stern.
C. Issuing a Use Permit Decal “Over the Counter” – A customer must complete the Use Permit Decal application form (PFBC-
769) and provide the requested boat and applicant information.
a. Cost - The cost is $10 for a one-year permit which will expire December 31st of the year it is issued. The cost for a two-
26
year permit is $18 which will expire December 31st of the year after it is issued. Agents are permitted to only charge a
$1.00 issuing agent fee for each use permit decal issued.
i. Issue Use Permit Decals in numerical sequence.
ii. Write the Use Permit Decal number and your agent number on the customer application form.
iii. Instruct the user that the Use Permit Decal must be clearly displayed on each side of the boat between the
middle (amidships) and the rear (stern) just below the top of the hull (gunwale). For low-volume boats,
such as kayaks, decals may be placed on the deck between amidships and the stern.
D. Reports - Agents are required by law to submit reports of all “Over the Counter” permits sold or issued to the PFBC within
ten (10) days of issuance.
a. Delinquent agents are subject to a penalty of ten percent (10%) per month on any outstanding balance due the PFBC.
b. Reports will be audited for accuracy on the reported dates sold and when reports are submitted.
c. Checks or money orders covering Use Permit Decals fees must be remitted with reports.
E. Agent – Submit the following to the PFBC within ten (10) days:
a. PFBC-UP001, Use Permit Decal Report.
b. Completed Use Permit application form PFBC-769.
c. Check or Money Order covering fees made payable to PFBC.
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SECTION VI
Charter Boat/Fishing Guide’s Guide
Everything You Need to Know
About Being a Pennsylvania
Charter Boat/Fishing Guide
Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission (PFBC)
www.fishandboat.com
A. General Information
Charter Boat- A boat operated as a commercial enterprise which carries passengers for hire for the purpose of fishing on the
waters of this Commonwealth.
Fishing Guide – A person who operates a commercial enterprise whereby he guides or leads other persons for the purpose of
fishing on the waters of this Commonwealth.
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B. Applicant and Permit Information
1. Application and Applicant – A person desiring to be a charter boat operator or a fishing guide on the waters of the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania must first apply for a permit on the form provided by the Commission (Charter
Boat/Fishing Guide Permit Application, PFBC-G-1) and submit the appropriate fee ($100 for residents; $400 for non-
residents). Applicants must be 16 years of age or older. To obtain an application access the PA Fish and Boat
Commission’s website at www.fishandboat.com for a printable version or call us at 717-705-7851.
2. Permit Duration – Charter boat/fishing guide permits are valid for a calendar year and expire on December 31 of the year
for which they were issued.
3. Permit Renewals – A holder of a charter boat/fishing guide permit must apply to the Commission for renewal of the
permit by completing the renewal application form provided by the Commission and by submitting it along with the
appropriate fee to the Commission. Renewal notices will be emailed to current permit holders during the month of October
or November of the preceding year.
4. Suspensions – The Commission may suspend or revoke a charter boat/fishing guide permit for noncompliance with the
terms and conditions of the applicable regulations or when the charter boat operator or fishing guide is convicted or
acknowledges guilt of a violation of the laws or regulations.
5. Compliance with Laws – Charter boat operators and fishing guides must comply with all federal, state and local laws and
regulations. Charter boat operators and fishing guides are responsible for ensuring that their employees, passengers and
customers comply with all fishing and boating laws and regulations.
C. Display of Permits and Decals
1. Permits – While operating a charter boat or fishing guide operation, charter boat operators and fishing guides must display
their permits on a hat or an outer garment in plain view. The charter boat operator and fishing guide may carry and display
the permit in the same holder containing a fishing license. Charter boat operators and fishing guides must present their
charter boat/fishing guide permits upon the request of an officer authorized to enforce the code. While onboard a boat
displaying a decal, the charter boat operator is exempt from the permit display requirements of this section provided the
permit is onboard the boat.
2. Decals – When a boat is used in the charter boat/fishing guide operation, the charter boat operator must display a decal
supplied by the Commission on both sides of the boat hull above the waterline and below the gunwale near the stern of the
boat or on each side window of the cockpit of the boat. When, due to exigent circumstances, a charter boat operator must
use a boat that does not display a charter boat/fishing guide decal, the charter boat operator must display the permit on a hat
or outer garment as required by this section.
D. Other Requirements
1. Boating Safety Education Certificate & USCG License – When a boat is used in the charter boat/fishing guide
operation, the charter boat operator must possess a boating safety education certificate issued by the Commission or by
another state in accordance with criteria of the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators or a boat
operator’s license issued by the U.S. Coast Guard. Applicants and holders of charter boat/fishing guide permits must
provide proof of certification of boating safety education upon the request of the Commission.
2. Insurance – Charter boat operators and fishing guides must possess and maintain in full force and effect general liability
insurance for all periods which they are operating a charter boat/fishing guide operation on the waters of the
Commonwealth. The minimum amount of coverage is $250,000 for each occurrence and $500,000 in the aggregate.
Applicants and holders of charter boat/fishing guide permits must provide proof of insurance upon the request of the
Commission.
3. CPR and First Aid – Charter boat operators and fishing guides must possess and maintain current certification in basic
cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and basic first aid skills. Applicants and holders of charter boat/fishing guide permits
must provide proof of CPR or basic first aid certification upon the request of the Commission.
4. Fishing License and Permits – Charter boat operators and their crewmembers and fishing guides must possess valid
fishing licenses and the stamps and permits required for the waters in which they fish. Charter boat operators and fishing
guides are responsible for ensuring that their employees, passengers and customers possess a valid fishing license and the
appropriate stamps and permits.
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5. Guide Operations on Boundary Waters – Individuals who operate charter boats or fishing guide operations on boundary
waters under the jurisdiction of the Commonwealth must possess a charter boat/fishing guide permit. If a person uses a
boat launch in the Commonwealth, then it is presumed that the person is operating a charter boat or fishing guide operation
on the waters of this Commonwealth.
E. Special Issuing Agents for Fishing Licenses
a. Holders of charter boat/fishing guide permits may apply to be a special issuing agent for the purpose of selling to their
customers 1-Day Fishing Licenses, 3-Day Tourist Fishing Licenses, 7-Day Tourist Fishing Licenses and trout/salmon
permits and special permits for fishing Lake Erie and tributaries. A holder of a charter boat/fishing guide permit may
seek to become a special issuing agent by completing and submitting to the Commission an application on the form
prescribed by the Commission. Applications to become a special issuing agent can be obtained by calling the
Commission at 717-705-7851.
b. Applications to become a special issuing agent must be accompanied by a bond or other security in a form satisfactory
to the Commission in an amount equal to the value of the licenses, and permits being requested by the applicant.
F. General Fishing License Agent Information
See General Information, Section I for all General Fishing License Agent Information.
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PFBC-769, Application for PFBC Unpowered Boat Use (Launch) Permit
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PFBC-UP001, Issuing Agent’s Use Permit Decal Report
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PFBC-770, Use Permit Supply Request
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PFBC-L-102, PALS Void Log
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PFBC-L-101, Affidavit of Pennsylvania Residency and/or Affidavit Pertaining to Social Security Number
*When using this form, the original form must be submitted to PFBC.
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Sample Letter from U.S. Veterans Administration to demonstrate and document that a disability is permanent.
This is needed to issue a Disabled Veteran Senior Resident Lifetime License.
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PFBC-G-1, Charter Boat/Fishing Guide Application
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Completed Charter Boat/Fishing Guide Permit
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Charter Boat/Fishing Guide Renewal Application
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Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission
Regulations
§ 51.31. Responsibility of issuing agents.
(a) Issuing agents are responsible to ensure that the fishing license is fully completed. The applicant shall make sure the information
entered on the license form is correct, and shall sign his own name or place his mark in the place indicated on the reverse of the
license certificate.
(b) Issuing agents shall verify the eligibility of the applicant for the class of license indicated on the license in accordance with §
51.32 (relating to resident and nonresident licenses).
(c) The issuing agent shall transfer the information provided by the applicant to the license certificate, assuring that the information
can be easily read. Information on the license certificate shall agree with the information provided and be typed or printed in ink.
(d) Agents shall use standard abbreviations supplied by the Commission for the color of eyes.
(e) Each license shall bear the account number of the issuing agent and the signature or initials of the person issuing the license.
(f) Issuing agents shall issue licenses in numerical sequence.
(g) Issuing agents shall provide a Summary of Fishing Regulations and Laws with each license issued. Issuing agents also shall
provide a copy of the summary book to any holder of a Senior Resident Lifetime Fishing License who requests one. Failure to comply
with this subsection will be grounds for recall of the issuing agency as provided in section 2711 of the code (relating to issuing
agents). Issuing agents are encouraged to provide a copy of the summary book, if adequate numbers are available, to other individuals
who request one.
(h) Issuing agents are responsible to ensure that when someone buys a license as a gift for another person, the person buying the
license signs his name on the reverse of the agent’s copy of the license and indicates that the license was purchased as a gift. The
recipient of the gift license shall sign his name on the original of the license.
§ 51.32. Resident and nonresident licenses.
(a) Only bona fide residents of this Commonwealth who establish their resident status by producing a Pennsylvania motor vehicle
driver’s license or other positive means of identification are entitled to obtain one of the various forms of a resident fishing license.
(1) Other positive means of identification for establishing bona fide residence in this Commonwealth include proof of payment of
Pennsylvania Personal Income Tax as a resident of this Commonwealth; proof of payment of earned income, personal income tax or
per capita taxes showing residence in a Pennsylvania municipality; current Pennsylvania firearms permit; Pennsylvania voter
registration card; Pennsylvania nondriver identification card; or a signed affidavit of Pennsylvania residency on the form prescribed by
the Commission.
(2) For purposes of this subsection, a bona fide resident of this Commonwealth is a permanent resident who has a fixed intent to
return to this Commonwealth when he leaves it and maintains a permanent place of abode here. A person may not be a bona fide
resident of this Commonwealth for this purpose while claiming residence in another state for any purpose.
(b) Military personnel who are stationed in this Commonwealth under permanent change of station orders (PCS) for a duration of 6
months or more may qualify as bona fide residents for the purpose of obtaining resident fishing licenses regardless of the fact they
may maintain a legal domicile in another state as authorized by the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (50 U.S.C.A. App. § § 501—
596). Military personnel who are domiciled in this Commonwealth but who are stationed in another state or country qualify as bona
fide residents of this Commonwealth for fishing license purposes so long as they do not become domiciles of another state.
(c) A person who does not qualify as a bona fide resident of this Commonwealth under subsection (a) or (b) is considered a
nonresident for purposes of obtaining a fishing license.
(d) A resident fishing license will remain valid for the year or years for which it is issued regardless of whether the holder is no
longer a bona fide resident of this Commonwealth.
§ 51.33. Effective dates of licenses and permits.
Fishing licenses and related permits are valid for the year printed on the license certificate or permit, and the month of December of
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the preceding year, except for 1-day and tourist licenses that are valid for the dates specified on the license certificate.
§ 51.34. Stamps and permits.
(a) The Commission may require licensees to possess stamps or permits to fish for certain species or in certain bodies of water.
(b) Individuals who purchase the stamp or permit to fish for the specified species or in designated bodies of water shall permanently
affix the stamp or permit to their license certificate, sign their names (or in the instance of small stamps or permits, their initials) in ink
across the face of the stamp or permit and display the stamped or permitted license certificate when fishing for the specified species or
on the designated body of water. The buyer is not required to affix the stamp or permit on the license certificate until he actually
engages in the stamped or permitted activity.
(c) Issuing agents shall make stamps and permits available to individuals purchasing them as collectibles. The buyer does not have to
sign the stamp or permit.
§ 51.36. Lost license certificates.
(a) An issuing agent shall replace a lost license regardless of where the licensee purchased the original license.
(b) If a licensee seeks to purchase a replacement license at the agency where he bought the original license, the licensee shall present
the original license number and complete the form provided by the Commission relating to the lost license certificate. If the original
license number is not known, the form shall be notarized.
(c) If a licensee seeks to purchase a replacement license at an agency other than the agency where he bought the original license, the
licensee shall complete the form provided by the Commission relating to the lost license certificate and have it notarized.
(d) The issuing agent shall write the word ‘‘DUPLICATE’’ and the original number, if known, across the face of the replacement
license certificate.
(e) The issuing agent shall attach to the monthly report the form relating to the lost license certificate, any voided license certificate
and the original and duplicate of the license certificate. The issuing agent shall record the certificate number in the body of the report.
(f) If the original license was sold through the Pennsylvania Automated Licensing Service (PALS) and the licensee seeks to purchase
a replacement license, the licensee shall present the original license number or licensee’s PALS customer identification number to the
issuing agent, and the issuing agent shall issue a replacement license, including associated permits, through the PALS.
§ 51.37. Application and prerequisites for becoming an issuing agent for the Pennsylvania Automated Licensing Service
(PALS).
(a) A person, sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation may apply to become an issuing agent of the Commission for the
purpose of selling fishing licenses and permits through the PALS.
(1) An applicant seeking to become an issuing agent shall complete and submit to the Commission an application on the form
prescribed by the Commission and pay a one-time, nonrefundable fee of $150.
(2) Applications shall be accompanied by a bond in favor of the Commission, or other security in a form satisfactory to the
Commission, in a minimum amount specified by the Executive Director or designee.
(3) A person, sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation that is an agent of the Commission for the sale of paper licenses may
sell licenses through PALS without making a new application under this subsection.
(b) An entity accepted by the Commission to act as an issuing agent shall perform in the following manner and meet the following
prerequisites:
(1) An issuing agent, including county treasurers, may not appoint subagents to issue fishing licenses or permits.
(2) Issuing agents shall enter into a Fishing License Issuing Agent Agreement with the Commission that covers the issuance of
fishing licenses and permits and the electronic transfer of funds through the PALS.
(3) Issuing agents shall maintain a bond in favor of the Commission, or other security in a form satisfactory to the Commission, in a
minimum amount specified by the Commission for each location where licenses and permits are issued.
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(4) Issuing agents shall maintain an account in a Federally insured financial institution organized under the authority of the
Commonwealth or the United States. This bank account must be able to accept electronic funds transfers. Issuing agents shall provide
the Commission with account information upon the request of the Commission.
§ 51.38. Operation of the issuing agent for the Pennsylvania Automated Licensing Service (PALS).
(a) Sale of licenses.
(1) Issuing agents shall collect the required customer information, including Social Security numbers, at the time of purchase and
ensure that the fishing license is accurate, correct and fully completed. The applicant shall verify the information provided to the
issuing agent and entered into the PALS is accurate and correct and sign his own name or place his mark in the place indicated on the
face of the license certificate. A license is not valid unless it is signed by the applicant. If an applicant indicates to the issuing agent
that he does not have a Social Security number, the issuing agent shall ask the applicant to complete an affidavit on the form
prescribed by the Commission certifying under penalty of law that the applicant does not have a Social Security number and the
reason therefor. Upon completion and execution of the form by the applicant, the issuing agent may issue the license to the applicant.
Issuing agents shall deny the issuance of a license to an applicant who fails to provide his Social Security number or who fails to sign
an affidavit as required by this paragraph. Issuing agents shall retain the affidavits and submit them to the Commission at least once a
month or in another manner prescribed by the Commission.
(2) Issuing agents shall verify the eligibility of the applicant for the class of license indicated on the license in accordance with §
51.32 (relating to resident and nonresident licenses). If an applicant for a resident license indicates that he is unable to establish that he
is a resident of this Commonwealth by any of the means identified in § 51.32 other than by signing an affidavit of Pennsylvania
residency, the issuing agent shall ask the applicant to complete the form prescribed by the Commission certifying under penalty of law
that the applicant is a bona fide resident of this Commonwealth. Issuing agents shall deny the issuance of a resident license to an
applicant who fails to establish his residency by signing the form or as otherwise provided in § 51.32. Issuing agents shall retain the
affidavits of Pennsylvania residency and submit them to the Commission at least once a month or in another manner prescribed by the
Commission.
(3) Issuing agents shall transfer the information provided by the applicant to the PALS and ensure that the PALS is otherwise
operational and prints the license certificate legibly. Issuing agents may not provide a customer with more than one copy of a license
certificate issued under PALS.
(4) Issuing agents shall provide a Summary of Fishing Regulations and Laws with each license issued. Issuing agents also shall
provide a copy of the summary book to any holder of a Senior Resident Lifetime Fishing License who requests one. Issuing agents are
encouraged to provide a copy of the summary book, if adequate numbers are available, to other individuals who request one.
(5) Issuing agents shall make available licenses and permits for sale to the public in strict accordance with all policies, instructions,
rules and regulations of the Commission.
(6) Issuing agents and their employees may not provide false or misleading information on a license. The date reported on a license
sold shall be the date of the actual sale.
(7) Issuing agents shall keep customer information confidential and not use, release or permit the use of this information for any
purpose not specifically authorized by the Commission or applicable law.
(8) Issuing agents shall return all original voided licenses to the Commission within 15 days of their issuance. Issuing agents shall
pay the license fees for voided licenses that are not returned to the Commission within 15 days of issuance.
(9) Issuing agents shall return all documents designated by the Commission within the time frame specified by the Commission.
(10) Issuing agents shall maintain, as instructed by the Commission, displays, notices or other informational materials relating to
licenses and permits provided by the Commission, distribute to customers and fishing guides other compliance or educational
materials provided by the Commission and promote and market new products or privileges as required by the Commission.
(11) Issuing agents shall sell licenses and permits only at the business location specified in their application or approved by the
Commission and at a place on the premises accessible to the public.
(12) Issuing agents may not offer or provide licenses or permits free of charge or for any fee not authorized by section 2715 of the
code (relating to license, permit and issuing agent fees).
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(13) Issuing agents shall redeem a license or permit voucher regardless of where the voucher was purchased.
(b) PALS equipment.
(1) Issuing agents shall ensure proper use of the PALS equipment and follow the PALS operating manual and subsequent
amendments and revisions thereto.
(2) An issuing agent may not borrow, lend or otherwise transfer PALS equipment or supplies to another agent without the prior
written consent of the Commission.
(3) Issuing agents shall safeguard PALS equipment and supplies from unauthorized, wasteful, inappropriate or fraudulent use.
Issuing agents shall place the equipment and supplies in a secure location. Issuing agents shall use license paper stock only for
purposes of printing licenses, permits, reports and receipts. Issuing agents shall promptly notify the Commission or its designee of
equipment malfunction. PALS equipment and supplies are not transferable to other locations without the prior written consent of the
Commission. Issuing agents shall return the defective equipment immediately to the repair center identified by the Commission.
(4) Issuing agents shall notify the Commission by telephone within 48 hours and submit a written report within 10 days after any
fire, theft or natural disaster affecting PALS equipment and supplies or records.
(5) Issuing agents shall be responsible for the PALS equipment and the supplies relating to the issuance of licenses and permits,
except for events beyond their control, and they shall assume financial responsibility for any damage to the PALS equipment resulting
from negligence, malicious activity, abandonment, failure to return upon request of the Commission or improper electrical service to
the equipment.
(6) Issuing agents shall carry appropriate insurance covering PALS equipment and supplies in an amount determined by the
Commission. Issuing agents shall provide proof of insurance coverage upon the request of the Commission.
(c) Access and auditing.
(1) Issuing agents, their employees and subcontractors shall allow the Commission or other authorized representatives access to
periodically inspect, review or audit PALS associated records, reports, canceled checks and similar material pertaining to PALS.
Issuing agents shall maintain these records for 5 years.
(2) Issuing agents shall allow the Commission access to all materials and equipment related to the PALS operations. Issuing agents
shall allow access to the Commission to make inspections during reasonable business hours, with or without notice to the issuing
agent, to determine whether the issuing agent is in compliance with this section.
(d) Financial provisions.
(1) Issuing agents shall deposit the money received from the sale of licenses and permits in a designated bank account less the
amount retained as an issuing agent fee under section 2715 of the code.
(2) Issuing agents shall have sufficient funds available in the designated bank account at the time of the electronic funds transfers.
Upon notification of insufficient funds for payment to the Commission, the Commission may immediately and without notice suspend
an issuing agent’s authority to issue licenses and permits, may assess an administrative fee in accordance with section 502 of the code
(relating to collection fee for uncollectible checks) and may require the issuing agent to increase the amount of the bond or other
security or to provide adequate bank account overdraft protection.
(3) Issuing agents shall provide written notification on the form prescribed by the Commission at least 15 days prior to changing
banks, account numbers, ownership status, business status or other information used by the Commission or its designee for the
purpose of collecting moneys owed by the issuing agent.
(e) Suspension or recall of agency.
(1) The Commission may suspend the issuing agency of any agent that no longer meets the Commission’s criteria for acceptance for
participation in PALS until the agent becomes compliant.
(2) The Commission may recall the issuing agency of any agent that violates the requirements of this section.