ST. PAUL – The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has delayed the rollout date for its updated electronic license system (ELS).
In an email sent Friday morning, Jan. 31, Kelly Straka, director of the DNR’s Fish and Wildlife Division, said the new system now will be rolled out “later this year.” The DNR initially had planned a March 2025 launch date, Straka said, which would have aligned with the start of the new licensing year.
ADVERTISEMENT
The new system, a collaborative technology project developed with Minnesota IT Services (MNIT) and licensing vendor PayIt Outdoors, will modernize the issuance of fishing and hunting licenses and the titling and registration of boats and off-road vehicles.
“The state is working with PayIt Outdoors to identify a launch timeline that allows time for them to complete adequate testing and training,” Straka said. “While the updated timeline is disappointing, it will help ensure the new system fully meets the needs of its users when PayIt Outdoors delivers it to the state.”
Until the new ELS system is launched, nothing will change for license agents, deputy registrars, anglers, hunters and recreational vehicle and watercraft users as they buy licenses or register motorized vehicles, Straka said. The current system is fully functional.
“We know people are eager to have a new, modernized system, and we look forward to working with you to ensure a smooth and successful launch and the best user experience from the start,” Straka said.
The Trust Project
