Division of Aquatic Resources

On April 14, 2025, the Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR) introduces a new option in commercial licensing called the Commercial Marine Vessel License (CMVL). This optional license will be available to current CML holders who wish to license one or more vessel. Once a vessel is issued a CMVL, crew members who fish on that vessel do not need their own individual CML when fishing on board. Please be aware that this only covers commercial licensing requirements when fishing on the licensed vessel and does not cover clients or passengers on charter fishing trips.

To obtain a CMVL for a vessel, you must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid CML. Reporting of all fish caught by the vessel will be the responsibility of the person that the CMVL is issued to. As a reminder, CML holders are required to report all fish caught whether released, kept for personal consumption, given away, or sold. Longline vessel operators who are issued CMVLs will have additional crew reporting requirements. Pricing for the CMVL will be as follows:

• $100 for any vessel less than twenty-two feet in length that is not used for longline fishing;
• $200 for any vessel twenty-two feet in length or greater that is not used for longline fishing;
• $1,500 for any vessel used for longline fishing, as defined in section HRS 189-2.5;
• $10 fee for duplicate licenses if lost or destroyed.

To apply for the CMVL, click on the “Licenses & Permits” tab at the top of any DAR webpage, then click on “Commercial Fishers.” If you have any questions, please email us at [email protected].