Atlantic Tunas Dealer Permits
About
You need a Greater Atlantic dealer permit for tunas if you purchase tunas harvested from federal or state waters.
There are two permits you may need:
1. Bluefin tuna
2. BAYS tunas (bigeye, albacore, skipjack, yellowfin)
Please specify whether you would like one or both of these permits on your application.
Remember, you must have the proper permit in your possession when purchasing the species.
What You Will Need
To apply, you will need the following:
- Signed and dated application (available through Fish Online)
- Fully completed, signed and dated Owner Form (available through Fish Online)
- If applying as a business, include a copy of one of the following:
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Articles of Organization
- Annual Report
How to Apply
All permits are free of charge.
If you are applying for a permit for the first time, download an application form.
For a renewal, contact our Permit Office at (978) 282-8438 or access your Fish Online account.
What Happens After You Submit
Once we receive your complete application, you will receive your permit within 30 days. Bluefin tuna dealers will receive their tags shortly after that.
Once Your Permit Is Issued
Once you have your permit, you will need to begin reporting your dealer activity.
- Weekly trip-level reporting is required for swordfish, sharks, and BAYS tunas.
- 24-hour reporting is required for bluefin tuna landings.
If you need further information on reporting any Highly Migratory Species including bluefin tuna; bigeye, albacore, yellowfin, and skipjack (BAYS) tunas; shark; and swordfish, please call the eDealer line at (301) 427-8590.
All permit holders should review the HMS Dealer & Importer/Exporter Compliance Guide.
Find out more about dealer reporting requirements.
More Information
To find out more about permits in the Greater Atlantic Region, please visit our Greater Atlantic Region Application and Forms Summary.