In a notice dated July 11, 2014 the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS) announced that they will no longer provide written notification to wildlife import/export license holders and designated port exception (DPE) permit holders concerning the expiration of those licenses/permits and the need to request renewal.

Currently, the Office of Law Enforcement within FWS sends written notifications by mail to license holders, as a courtesy, to inform them in advance of the pending expiration date of their license or DPE and encourage them to request renewal on a timely basis. According to the notice, "Individuals and businesses that hold wildlife import/export licenses and DPE permits will be responsible for monitoring expiration dates and obtaining license/permit renewals without notification from the Service. The Service is exploring options for electronic reminders for users of our eDecs system."

FWS also reminded importers/exporters that wildlife inspectors will not clear shipments presented for import or export under expired licenses or DPE permits.

The FWS notice can be downloaded online here.