I have noticed this problem with the online system too. Basically, it does not allow you to order the "free" catch record card, for some kids who are under 14 years old (significantly under 14 years old??). I tried to get one for my very young daughter too, and the system would not let me, even though my daughter is legally entitled to a free one (with the add-on dealer fee) regardless of her age under 14.

As another example, free fishing weekend is usually the first weekend in June, where people (kids and adults) are not required to have licenses but must still possess the free punchcard if they fish for salmon, steelhead, etc. I don't see how they can get this free catch card from the online system... the user interface forces them to purchase the full license first and has no option for just selecting the free card. Interestingly, it does have the option to select the replacement card for $10+

In years past, you could order just the free catch card online. I had done it several times for kids of relatives and friends. It does not seem to let you do that anymore.