New York Hunting License

How Do I Get My State Hunting License?

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

1. Complete the New York hunter education certification requirements.
2. Choose the correct license type.
3. Buy the license through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation website or a New York–approved agent.

Types of New York Hunting Licenses

New York Resident

A resident is a person who has lived in New York for 30 days or more. Active-duty military members stationed in New York and non-resident full-time students who live in New York and attend a college or university in New York are considered residents.

All New York residents age 12 or older must have a resident hunting license. Additional privileges or permits may be required to hunt specific game species. Visit the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation website for exemptions.

Non-Resident

All non-residents age 12 or older must have a non-resident hunting license. Additional privileges or permits may be required to hunt specific game species.

Youth Hunting License

All youth under 12 years of age may not obtain a hunting license or hunt game.

New York residents and non-residents ages 12 to 15 are eligible for a reduced-fee hunting license. Additional privileges or permits may be required to hunt specific game species.

Senior Hunting License

New York residents age 70 or older are eligible for reduced-fee licenses.

Disability License

New York residents and non-residents with physical disabilities may be eligible for disability permits. A current hunting license may be required. Visit the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation website for more details.

Military and Veteran License

Active-duty military members who are stationed in New York for at least 30 days may purchase a resident hunting license. In addition, active-duty military members who are New York residents but stationed elsewhere may be eligible for a free hunting license while on leave. Their leave must be less than 30 days.

Resident veterans who have 40% or more service-connected disability are eligible for reduced-fee licenses.

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 Sept. 1 to Aug. 31 of the next year. New York residents are able to purchase a lifetime hunting license.

Where to Buy a New York Hunting License

• Visit the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation website.
• Call 1-866-933-2257.
• Visit an approved license agent.