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Fishing Guide License in Tennessee

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Fishing Guide license in TN. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$150

Processing Time

4-6 Weeks

Exam Required

USCG Captain License Exam

Difficulty Level

Medium

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Fishing Guide license in Tennessee.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Fishing Guide training program in Tennessee.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your TN application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the USCG Captain License Exam.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Tennessee licensing board and pay the $150 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 4-6 weeks in TN. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

If you are looking to start your career as a Fishing Guide in Tennessee, the licensing process begins with education. TN mandates specific coursework before you can sit for the USCG Captain License Exam. Upon passing the exam, you can proceed to file your application with the appropriate Tennessee regulatory board.

Requirements

Tennessee has specific requirements for Fishing Guide licensure that applicants must fulfill. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. Educational requirements include completing an accredited program relevant to lead recreational fishing trips and charters. A clean background check is mandatory in TN, and you must demonstrate good moral character. The USCG Captain License Exam must be passed with a minimum score set by the Tennessee board.

Fees & Costs

The initial application fee for a Fishing Guide license in Tennessee is approximately $150. This fee covers the processing of your application and initial license issuance. TN also charges an examination fee which is typically paid directly to the testing provider. Late application submissions in Tennessee may incur additional penalties of up to $38.

License Fee Calculator — Fishing Guide in Tennessee

Base License Fee$150
Estimated Total$150

Renewal Process

Tennessee requires Fishing Guide license holders to renew their credentials every 1 year. The renewal fee is $75 in TN. Continuing education requirements must be met before the renewal application is submitted. Tennessee offers both online and mail-in renewal options for licensed professionals.

License Expiry Calculator — Fishing Guide in TN

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Tennessee requires renewal every 1 year.

Additional Information

Tennessee takes professional licensing seriously, and the Fishing Guide field is no exception. The state board in TN regularly updates its requirements to align with industry standards and protect public safety. As a licensed Fishing Guide in Tennessee, you will be expected to maintain high ethical standards and stay current with developments in your field. The TN licensing board provides resources and support to help professionals meet their obligations.

Document Checklist — Fishing Guide

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Tennessee Fishing Guide License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) FullAK accepts TN Fishing Guide license via reciprocity agreement.
Alabama (AL) FullAL accepts TN Fishing Guide license via reciprocity agreement.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize TN Fishing Guide license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts TN Fishing Guide license via reciprocity agreement.
Colorado (CO) PartialCO requires additional exam or paperwork for TN license holders.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts TN Fishing Guide license via reciprocity agreement.
California (CA) NoneCA does not recognize TN Fishing Guide license. Full re-application required.
Florida (FL) NoneFL does not recognize TN Fishing Guide license. Full re-application required.

Where to File Locally in Tennessee

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Nashville

500 James Robertson Pkwy, Nashville, TN 37243

(615) 741-3449

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Memphis

125 N Main St, Memphis, TN 38103

(901) 576-6000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Knoxville

400 Main St, Knoxville, TN 37902

(865) 215-2000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Chattanooga

101 E 11th St, Chattanooga, TN 37402

(423) 643-7800

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Clarksville

1 Public Square, Clarksville, TN 37040

(931) 645-7444

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Official Tennessee Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Tennessee state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.