Frequently Asked Questions
What's New?+
As an alternative to paper applying, we have developed an Internet-based application system for FWS 3-200-3a - Import/Export License - U.S. Entities and 3-200-3b - Import/Export License - Foreign Entities. This system, named "eLicense", allows a filer to apply for an Import/Export license electronically.
How to Get Started With eLicense
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Am I required to use eLicense to apply for my Import/Export license?+
No. The eLicense system has been added as an alternative means of applying. You will still have the option to submit a paper application. You may also still continue to use the on-line form provided, fill it out, and submit it to us. All three of these options will remain available, and you can submit your application using whichever option works best for you at the time. ▲
If I have already submitted a paper application for my Import/Export license, should I use eLicense to apply for my Import/Export license?
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No. If you have already submitted a paper application to one of our permit offices, our staff will process your pending request based on your paper application. Unless requested to do so by permit staff, please do not submit a duplicate application in eLicense. You can use eLicense for your next import/export license transaction. If you have questions about your pending paper application, please contact your servicing permit office using the contact information below. ▲
What costs will I incur to use eLicense? Is special software required? +
The costs associated with using the eLicense system should be minimal. You will need Internet connectivity, an e-mail address, and the Microsoft Internet Explorer web browser (version 8.0 or higher). You will not need to purchase any type of special software from the FWS, or any third party. Internet accounts can be purchased for a relatively inexpensive monthly fee, and generally include e-mail access. The Microsoft Internet Explorer web browser can be obtained for free from Microsoft. ▲
What are the advantages of using eLicense? +
Your eLicense application is submitted directly to the appropriate FWS licensing office. From there, a FWS license issuer is able to review the document. The system has e-mail notification features available for the license issuer to notify you of the status of your submission. The license issuer can notify you immediately if the submission has been accepted and provide you with further details or notify you immediately if a problem or error is found in the submission, and provide you with the opportunity to correct the problem.
The eLicense system provides you with the ability to set up an "account" called your "My eLicense" account. There is no cost associated with having a "My eLicense" account. It is simply a way for you to store basic information that can be pre-loaded into any new application you prepare. Information such as your business name, a contact name, an e-mail address, and a phone number can be stored in your "My eLicense" account, and this information will be automatically loaded with each application submission. The intent of the "My eLicense" account, and the limited system intelligence capabilities it provides, is to ease the data entry burden associated with submitting your license application.
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How do I access eLicense?+
Create and access your eLicense account here: eLicense Login/Create Account
Access the eLicense home page here: eLicense Home
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Can I use my email address to create multiple eLicense accounts?+
No. An email address can only be used to create one eLicense account. ▲
What payment options are available in eLicense?+
Payments in eLicense can be made by ACH debit or credit/debit card. ▲
What license actions can I request in eLicense?+
You may request a new Import/Export license, and renew or amend your existing Import/Export license. If you have an existing license number, even if your license has expired, you should renew unless ownership of the licensed entity has changed. ▲
If my license has expired do I renew or obtain a new license?+
Expired licenses should be renewed, unless ownership of the licensed entity has changed. ▲
I already have an existing Import/Export license; where is my license number?+
Your Import Export license number, located in the top right quadrant of your license, is labeled "Permit Number" or "Number" and consists of 6 characters. Your license number may appear in the following formats; the highlighted 6 characters are considered your license number:
123456 or
LE123456-0 or
2017-A12345
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Can I use eLicense to apply for a Designated Port Exception Permit (DPEP)?+
No. Designated Port Exception Permit applications and fees must be submitted directly to your servicing permit office. ▲
Can someone else create my eLicense account for me?+
No, unless you are a foreign entity enlisting the assistance of your U.S. Agent (Power of Attorney must be provided with all license transactions in eLicense). ▲
How will I receive my issued Import/Export license?+
Your issued Import/Export license will be emailed to the email address you used to create your eLicense account. The issued license will be sent from the email address of your servicing permit office, either permitsEastLE@fws.gov or permitsWestLE@fws.gov (see below). We do not send any additional copies by mail. ▲
How can I find out more about using eLicense?+
On-line help has been provided from a link on the eLicense home page. The on-line help page provides complete details on how to use eLicense. In addition, online, context sensitive, help is provided throughout the system. This information is in the form of instructions on the screen, or small help buttons labeled with a question mark "?", that provide help in a specific area.
The actual on-line form is almost identical in appearance to the Forms 3-200-3a and 3-200-3b.
All of the fields provided on the paper application are provided on the electronic form, and the specific applying requirements are identical. A copy of the standard application instructions for the license applications are provided from a link on the
eLicense home page.
Additional questions regarding application procedures can also be directed to the appropriate FWS Licensing office.
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I need assistance determining my need for an Import/Export license. Who should I contact?+
Contact a wildlife inspector at the FWS port closest to you: USFWS Wildlife Inspection Offices ▲