Navigating complex and evolving Incidental Take Permit (ITP) requirements within a design-build approach presents significant challenges, especially when project details are ever-changing. Expedited timelines in preparation for the California High-Speed Rail (CHSR) project led the CHSR Authority to initiate the ITP process for the Fresno to Bakersfield (F-B) section when design plans were only 15% complete, prior to full property acquisition, and with the ability to only complete limited on-the-ground resource assessments to evaluate risk of take of listed species. With more than 30 amendments to date for the F-B section, the CAHSR project highlights the difficulty of tracking and implementing permit changes as the design plans, construction footprint, and means and methods evolve. Key lessons learned include the importance of gathering information before applying for a permit, the importance of agency collaboration, and the importance of clear, easy-to-follow permits. Recommendations include close collaboration with agencies during every phase (pre-permitting, during permit acquisition, and post-permit acquisition), advocating for full permit reissuance for each amendment, and prioritizing obtaining access to property prior to permit acquisition.