New Mexico Hunting License

How Do I Get My State Hunting License?

Depending on your age, you may be required to have the Hunter Education Number in order to legally buy a license or permit to hunt.

1. Complete the New Mexico hunter education certification requirements.
2. Choose the correct license type.
3. Buy the license through the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish website or a New Mexico–approved vendor.

Types of New Mexico Hunting Licenses

New Mexico Resident

A resident is a person who has lived in New Mexico for at least 90 days. Active-duty military members stationed in New Mexico and non-resident students who live in New Mexico and attend an institution in New Mexico are considered residents. Visit the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish website for more details about residency requirements.

All New Mexico residents must have a resident hunting license. Also, they must purchase the Habitat Management & Access Validation and Habitat Stamp. Additional permits may be required to hunt specific game species. For non-game species, a license is not required.

Non-Resident

All non-residents must have a non-resident hunting license. Also, they must purchase the Habitat Management & Access Validation and Habitat Stamp. Additional permits may be required to hunt specific game species. For non-game species, a license is required.

Youth Hunting License

New Mexico residents and non-residents under 18 years of age may purchase reduced-fee junior licenses.

Senior Hunting License

New Mexico residents age 65 or older are eligible for reduced-fee licenses. Visit the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish website for more details.

Disability License

New Mexico residents with severe physical disabilities may be eligible for the reduced-fee Resident Handicapped License. This license allows hunters to shoot from a stationary vehicle; have assistance tracking, killing and retrieving game; and drive off established roads.

Mobility Impaired Certification is available to residents and non-residents with a permanent impairment that restricts mobility. Visit the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish website for more details.

Military and Veteran License

Active-duty military members who are New Mexico residents but stationed elsewhere may be eligible for 50% discounts on licenses, permits and stamps. In addition, veterans who are residents are also eligible for these discounts.

New Mexico residents who were on active duty on or after April 3, 2003, are eligible for a free Game-Hunting and Fishing License for a year following their return to New Mexico.

Resident veterans who have 100% service-connected disability may be eligible for a free lifetime Game-Hunting and Fishing License. Resident veterans who do not have 100% disability may be eligible for a reduced-fee Game-Hunting and Fishing License.

Migratory Waterfowl Requirements

All hunters age 16 or older must purchase the Federal Duck Stamp when hunting migratory waterfowl. In addition, hunters are required to have proof of their participation in the Harvest Information Program (HIP).

License Expiration

Hunting licenses are good from April 1 to March 31 of the next year. Species permits are valid during only their authorized seasons.

Where to Buy a New Mexico Hunting License

• Visit the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish website.
• Call 1-888-248-6866.
• Visit a New Mexico Department of Game and Fish office or an approved license vendor.