Hunting Basics: Where Do I Go to Get a Hunting License?

You're planning your hunt for the next season. Getting your hunting license should be one of the items on your checklist. 

Most states require a hunting license for every legal species every season. So, while your hunter safety course and certification never expire, your hunting license is typically only good for a specific season. 

The good news is that there are many places where you can quickly and easily get your hunting license. Today, we discuss why you need a license and where to get it before opening day. 

Why You Need a Hunting License

First, it's important to know why you need a license.

Watch the short video below to find out!

The fees from buying a license directly support your state's wildlife and outdoor areas, including habitat restoration, fish stocking, wildlife management, and more. By following the law and purchasing a hunting license, you ensure a legacy of hunting for the future.

Remember: getting your hunting license isn't a one-time thing or only for first-time hunters. Hunters always need a license for the current season to comply with state regulations.

Where Do I Go to Get a Hunting License? 

Your state hunting agency website is the first place to look for a license. 

If you're not sure what that is, start by searching for "hunting license" with your state name. If you meet all the legal requirements, such as age and completion of a hunter safety course, you should be able to pay the fee online to get your license. 

In most states, you can now buy your license online and have it mailed to you! However, if you'd rather go in person, visit the regional offices of your state wildlife agency. You can find the address through their website or by doing a quick search. 

You can also buy a license from agency vendors, such as gun stores, sporting goods shops, and even some supermarkets or small businesses.

Your License Is Specific 

You'll pick the type of license you want, including the type of animal you're interested in hunting. Each license is specific to the animal, location, and year or season. Your license will note the limits on when you can hunt (the "season") and may have limits on where. 

Hunting licenses are only available for most states starting at a specific time each year. So, if you do the research above online and learn that it's not time to purchase it yet, note the date they go on sale and return to the site later. 

When you receive your license through the mail or from the in-person location where you made your purchase, you'll be ready for opening day! If you have any questions, a representative from your state agency is the best person to ask. 

Use Hunter-Ed for Information About Getting a Hunting License

In addition to our state-approved hunter safety courses, Hunter-Ed provides information about hunting regulations and licenses, including the types of licenses. 

On the state page that applies to you, scroll to the bottom and click the "Hunting License" link on the right. This link will lead to more information about licenses for your state. 

The image above shows that clicking the "Texas Hunting License" link on the website would lead to a new page with more information about licenses and how to get one. 

What Do I Need to Get My Hunting License?

Depending on your state's requirements, you'll likely need a hunter education certificate before buying a hunting license. 

The best way to meet that requirement is to take one of our online courses that applies to your state, then pass the exam (also online) and receive your certification. The certification never expires, so you'll always be ready to get your license before every season. 

Get Your Hunter Safety Certification to Get Your Hunting License

Don't let hunting season start without you! Never miss a day of hunting when you have your hunter education certification before your state offers hunting licenses for the upcoming season. 

Hunter-Ed offers online, state-approved courses for every state. Find the course for your state, login, and learn from your mobile device or computer. Then, happy hunting!

Originally published October 29, 2015. Content updated October 9, 2023.