How Much Does a Hunting License Cost in Each State?
Hunting license payments pay for programs that protect animals, keep their habitats healthy, and keep hunters safe. However, the prices vary from state to state because of different rules and priorities. For example, Wyoming and Montana, which have a lot of large game, sometimes charge non-residents extra fees to keep hunting pressure down. In the meanwhile, states like Alabama provide cheap resident licenses to get more people to participate. Residency status is a big deal—residents usually pay less since they pay state taxes that help wildlife programs. The fee also depends on the kind of game (small game, big game, or migratory birds) and how long the license is good for (daily, seasonal, or lifetime).
Some jurisdictions give discounts on licenses to young people, retirees, or disabled hunters. Others need extra permits for certain types of animals, such deer, elk, or ducks. For instance, a non-resident hunting elk in Colorado could have to spend more than $700, whereas a resident small game license in Ohio could cost as low as $19. Hunters can plan their budgets and make sure they follow state regulations by knowing these details. Let’s look at the prices in more depth by breaking them down by state.
State-by-State Hunting License Costs for Residents and Non-Residents
Based on the most recent statistics, the table below shows the average cost of a hunting license for citizens and non-residents in all 50 states. These costs are for regular adult licenses for the most recent season. They don’t include extra tags, stamps, or permits unless otherwise noted. Prices may change according on the type of animal, the length of the hunt, or other endorsements, so always verify with your state’s wildlife office for the specific rates.
| State | Resident License Cost | Non-Resident License Cost | Notes |
| Alabama | $30.25 (All Game) | $350.15 (All Game, Annual) | Lifetime licenses: $380-$640 (varies by age). |
| Alaska | $45 | $160 | Additional tags required for big game like moose or bear. |
| Arizona | $37 | $160 | Big game tags (e.g., elk) cost extra; non-resident points: $15/species. |
| Arkansas | $25 | $350 (All Game) | Youth licenses often discounted or free. |
| California | $54.05 | $188.74 | Additional tags for deer, bear, etc., required. |
| Colorado | $41.28 (Small Game) | $426.17 (Small Game) | Elk licenses: $57.90 (resident), $700+ (non-resident). |
| Connecticut | $19 (Firearms Hunting) | $91 (Firearms Hunting) | Separate permits for deer, turkey. |
| Delaware | $25 | $139 | Public land permits may apply. |
| Florida | $17 | $151.50 | Includes some permits for WMA hunting. |
| Georgia | $15 | $100 | Big game license includes deer, bear, turkey. |
| Hawaii | $20 | $105 | Limited hunting opportunities; specific island permits required. |
| Idaho | $15.45 | $154.75 | Disabled veterans may qualify for discounted licenses. |
| Illinois | $12.50 | $57.75 | Deer permits separate; resident youth free under 18. |
| Indiana | $17 | $80 | Lifetime licenses discontinued in 2005. |
| Iowa | $22 | $131 | Non-resident deer tags highly competitive. |
| Kansas | $27.50 | $97.50 | Mule deer stamp required for non-residents. |
| Kentucky | $27 | $150 | Includes one deer permit; additional tags extra. |
| Louisiana | $15 | $150 | Lifetime licenses available for residents. |
| Maine | $26 | $115 | Archery, crossbow permits extra. |
| Maryland | $24.50 | $130 | Bonus deer stamps available. |
| Massachusetts | $27.50 | $99.50 | Includes $5 Wildlands Conservation Stamp. |
| Michigan | $11 (Small Game) | $151 (Small Game) | Base license required for all hunting; combo licenses available. |
| Minnesota | $34 | $104 | Specific permits for bear, moose, turkey. |
| Mississippi | $15 | $45 | Sportsman’s license includes multiple permits. |
| Missouri | $19 | $160 | Deer, turkey permits separate. |
| Montana | $19 | $400 (Big Game Combo) | Non-resident elk/deer combo: $977. |
| Nebraska | $18 | $109 | Big game permits (e.g., elk) cost extra. |
| Nevada | $38 | $155 | Tag fees for big game can be significant. |
| New Hampshire | $32 | $113 | Includes bear hunting; archery license extra. |
| New Jersey | $27.50 | $135.50 | Multiple special licenses available. |
| New Mexico | $20 | $65 | Big game tags via lottery system. |
| New York | $22 | $100 | Separate tags for deer, bear, turkey. |
| North Carolina | $25 | $100 | Lifetime licenses available for residents. |
| North Dakota | $20 | $100 | Non-resident small game: $100. |
| Ohio | $19 | $175 | Youth licenses free for residents under 18. |
| Oklahoma | $20 | $176 | Lifetime combo licenses available. |
| Oregon | $34.50 | $172 | Additional tags for big game like elk, deer. |
| Pennsylvania | $20.97 | $101.97 | Includes one deer, turkey tags. |
| Rhode Island | $21 | $55 | Small state, limited hunting options. |
| South Carolina | $12 | $125 | Three-year licenses available for residents. |
| South Dakota | $16 (Small Game) | $86 (Small Game) | Big game tags via lottery; high non-resident fees. |
| Tennessee | $34 | $166 | Includes one deer, bear, or turkey tag. |
| Texas | $25 | $315 | Free youth hunter education at select locations. |
| Utah | $34 | $150 | Non-resident fees increase July 2025. |
| Vermont | $28 | $100 | Archery, muzzleloader licenses separate. |
| Virginia | $23 | $97 | Bear, deer, turkey licenses separate. |
| Washington | $44.90 (Small Game) | $183.60 (Small Game) | Big game tags (e.g., elk, moose) extra. |
| West Virginia | $19 | $119 | Lifetime licenses: $312-$703 (varies by age). |
| Wisconsin | $24 | $160 | Bonus deer tags available. |
| Wyoming | $27 | $373 | High-cost big game tags for non-residents. |
Sources: State wildlife agency websites, Hunter’s Wholesale, Field & Stream.
This table provides a snapshot of standard hunting license costs. However, many states require additional permits for big game or migratory birds, which we’ll cover next.
Additional Permits and Tags: What You Need to Know
In addition to a basic hunting license, several states demand special licenses or tags for certain types of animals or ways of hunting. These extra expenditures can add a lot to your total spending, especially if you’re a non-resident hunting large game. Here are the prices and details of several typical permits:
- Big Game Tags: States like Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming charge separate fees for species like elk, deer, or bighorn sheep. For example, a non-resident elk tag in Colorado costs over $700, while a resident pays around $57.90.
- Migratory Bird Permits: Federal Duck Stamps ($25) and state-specific waterfowl permits (e.g., Florida’s no-cost permit) are required for hunting ducks, geese, or other migratory birds.
- Special Method Licenses: Archery, muzzleloader, or crossbow hunting often requires additional licenses. In Virginia, an archery license costs $18 for residents, $31 for non-residents.
- Private Land Permits: Some states, like Kansas, require permits for hunting on private land, with costs varying by state and land type. For more details, check Landowner Hunting Rights by State.
These licenses help protect the environment and make sure that hunting is done in a way that doesn’t hurt the animals. However, they can be expensive. To prevent extra fees, always check with your state’s wildlife agency to be sure you have all you need.
Youth and Senior Hunting License Discounts
To get more young people involved and help older hunters, several states give free or cheap permits. These initiatives make hunting more accessible and help raise a new generation of conservationists. Here is a roundup of some great deals:
- Youth Licenses: States like Ohio and Illinois offer free or low-cost licenses for hunters under 18. Texas provides free hunter education courses for youth at select locations, like Resaca de La Palma State Park.
- Senior Discounts: Residents aged 65+ often qualify for reduced fees. For example, Florida exempts seniors from licensing requirements with proof of age and residency.
- Disabled Hunters: States like Idaho offer discounted licenses for disabled veterans with a letter from the Veterans Affairs office. Learn more about Disabled Hunter Permit Guide.
These discounts vary widely, so check your state’s regulations to see if you qualify. For a detailed look at youth-specific rules, visit Youth Hunting License Rules and Age Limits by State.
Lifetime Hunting Licenses: A Cost-Effective Option
Lifetime licenses can save money over time for people who hunt a lot. Some states, like Alabama, Louisiana, and West Virginia, give out these licenses. The price depends on where you live and how old you are. This is a short summary:
- Alabama: $380-$640, depending on age.
- West Virginia: $312-$703, based on age.
- Oklahoma: Combo hunting and fishing licenses available; prices increase after July 2025.
Lifetime permits cost more up front, but they don’t need to be renewed every year, so they’re great for serious hunters. But they could not come with certain tags or permissions, so make sure to check what’s included before you buy.
Hunter Education and Additional Fees
In most jurisdictions, hunters who were born after a specified date (for example, September 2, 1971, in Texas) must take a hunter education course. These classes, which teach about safety and rules, usually cost between $15 and $30, although other states, like Texas, provide free online classes through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
- Replacement Licenses: Lost licenses cost $3-$7 to replace in most states. For guidance, see Lost Hunting License Replacement Guide.
- Convenience Fees: Online purchases often incur a $1-$5 fee, while in-person purchases at sporting goods stores may include agent fees.
- Conservation Stamps: States like Massachusetts add a $5 Wildlands Conservation Stamp to licenses.
Completing hunter education not only ensures compliance but also enhances safety, making it a worthwhile investment.
How to Purchase a Hunting License
Hunting licenses are available through various channels, making the process convenient. Here’s how you can obtain one:
- Online: Most states offer online purchasing through their wildlife agency websites, such as GoOutdoorsFlorida or HuntFishPA.,
- In-Person: Sporting goods stores, bait shops, or state agency offices sell licenses. Check U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service for authorized retailers.
- By Phone: Some states, like Virginia, allow purchases via phone (e.g., 844-802-4193).
Always carry your license while hunting, as electronic copies are often accepted. Verify residency requirements, as most states require 60-180 days of residency to qualify for resident rates.
Tips for Budgeting Your Hunting License Costs
Planning your hunting expenses can prevent surprises. Here are practical tips to manage costs:
- Research State-Specific Fees: Use state wildlife agency websites for precise costs, as fees for tags or special permits vary.
- Consider Multi-Year Licenses: States like South Carolina offer three-year licenses, reducing long-term costs.
- Apply for Discounts: Check if you qualify for youth, senior, or veteran discounts to save money.
- Plan for Tags and Permits: Budget for additional costs like big game tags or migratory bird stamps, which can exceed the base license fee.
By researching and planning, you can enjoy hunting without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts on Hunting License Costs
The cost of a hunting license varies greatly from state to state in the U.S. This is because of things like where you live, what kind of animals you want to hunt, and state laws. Residents usually pay between $15 and $50, while non-residents have to pay more, often more than $2,500 for huge game. There are ways to save money, such lifetime licenses and discounts for young, old, and disabled hunters. You can make sure that your hunting trip is lawful and fun by knowing these fees and planning beforehand. Always check with your state’s wildlife agency for the most up-to-date costs and criteria. You might also want to look into Resident vs. Non-Resident Hunting Licenses to get additional ideas on how to save money on your hunting trips.