Scientific Permit for Research

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Important Update: The new Scientific Permit for Research Online System launches on the evening of August 13, 2025. We are currently in a blackout period (June 14 - August 13, 2025) during which no new applications, renewals or amendments will be processed. Existing permits remain valid until their expiration date. See Scientific Research Permits Online System for complete details.

Research and/or collections in state parks or state natural areas require a different permit. Visit the State Park Scientific Study Permit page for information.

Application packets must be obtained from TPWD, completed and returned along with two letters of recommendation from individuals in an appropriate biological or professional field. If you wish to collect or hold an endangered species you must provide written justification explaining how the species will benefit from the proposed activity. These permits do not allow the sale of animals. Permits are issued for three years, and a report is required each year in order to maintain the permit.

Persons representing grade schools or certain governmental organizations are exempt from the permit fee. Facilities for housing live animals must meet minimum requirements specified by regulation.

A Scientific Permit for Research is required to collect, salvage, band, or hold native Texas wildlife for scientific purposes. Scientific purposes include activities aimed at enhancing, protecting, conserving, or managing protected wildlife, or furthering scientific understanding of a resource or the environment.

Due to our system transition, we are currently in a blackout period (June 14 - August 13, 2025) and cannot process new applications. After August 13, 2025, new applications must be submitted through our online system. Applications submitted before June 14, 2025, will continue to be processed with an expected timeframe of approximately 3 months. Please plan accordingly for the system transition.

• Sub-permittee form | Word
• Scientific Permit for Research annual report | Word
• Receipt for donation of fish or wildlife specimens | Word
• TAC Title 31, PT 2 TPWD, Ch 69 Resource Protection, Subchapter J Rules for Scientific, Educational, and Zoological Permits

Bird Permits: Migratory Birds

If you plan to apply for a permit that includes the authority to handle migratory birds (rehabilitation, educational display of birds, or scientific collecting of migratory bird species), you will also be required to apply for a federal permit. Applications and further information can be found at U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Migratory Bird Permits.

Accessibility

Although TPWD makes effort to publish accessible electronic publications in Word, Excel, PDFs and forms, screen readers may encounter problems. Please email us at accessibility@tpwd.texas.gov if you require accessibility assistance.

Should you have questions regarding these permits, the regulations, or the application process, please email the Wildlife Permits Office at SRP@tpwd.texas.gov.

Please note: During our system transition (June 14 - August 13, 2025), we cannot process permit applications but are available to answer general questions about the new system and permit requirements.