Get Your Texas Hunting License
This guide provides a clear, step-by-step overview of everything you need to know to legally hunt in the Lone Star State. Follow the steps below to ensure you're ready for your next adventure.
The 4-Step Process
Check Eligibility
Confirm your age and residency status to determine your requirements.
Complete Education
Pass a mandatory Hunter Education course if you meet the criteria.
Choose License
Select the specific license and endorsements for the game you plan to hunt.
Make the Purchase
Buy your license online, by phone, or from an official license retailer.
Who Can Get a License?
Eligibility primarily depends on your age and residency status. A Texas resident is a person who has lived continuously in Texas for more than six months immediately before buying a license. Select your category to see the specific requirements.
Texas Residents
- Adults (17 and over): Must have a valid Texas driver's license or ID card. If you don't have one, you must provide other proof of residency.
- Active Duty Military: Texas residents on active duty in the U.S. Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, or Texas National Guard are eligible for a free license package.
- Veterans: Disabled veterans with a 50% or more disability rating or loss of use of a limb can get a reduced-fee or free license.
Non-Residents
Anyone who has not resided in Texas for at least six consecutive months is considered a non-resident. Specific non-resident licenses are available for various game types and durations.
Youth Hunters
A youth is defined as any person under 17 years of age. Both resident and non-resident youth licenses are available at a reduced cost.
Complete Your Hunter Education
Safety is paramount. Texas requires hunter education for many individuals to ensure everyone in the field is responsible and knowledgeable. Find out if you need to take a course.
Every hunter in Texas (including out-of-state hunters) born on or after September 2, 1971, must successfully complete a hunter education training course. Proof of certification or deferral is required to be on your person while hunting.
- Under 9 years of age: Must be accompanied by a person who is at least 17, who is licensed to hunt in Texas, and has passed hunter education.
- Age 9 through 16: Must successfully complete a hunter education course or be accompanied.
- Age 17 and over: Must successfully complete a hunter education course; or purchase a "Hunter Education Deferral" and be accompanied.
Courses are available in two formats: a basic classroom course (6 hours) or an online course plus a field course. You can find and register for courses through the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD) website.
Choose Your License Type
Texas offers a wide variety of licenses depending on what, where, and when you plan to hunt. Use the filters to find the right license package for your needs. Prices are subject to change.
Super Combo
Resident
Includes resident hunting and fishing licenses, plus all five state endorsements. The best value for Texas residents.
$68
Resident Combination
Resident
A package that includes both a resident hunting license and a resident fishing license.
$50
Resident Hunting
Resident
Allows for the hunting of any legal bird or animal. Endorsements may be required.
$25
Non-Resident General
Non-Resident
Required for non-residents to hunt any legal bird or animal, including deer.
$315
Non-Resident 5-Day Special
Non-Resident
For hunting exotic animals, all legal game birds (except turkeys), all nongame animals, squirrels, javelina and alligator (not valid for other game animals).
$48
Senior Resident Hunting
Resident (65+)
A reduced-fee license for Texas residents who are 65 years of age or older.
$7
Youth Hunting License
Resident & Non-Resident (Under 17)
For any person, resident or non-resident, under 17 years of age at the date of license purchase.
$7
Where to Purchase Your License
Once you know what you need, purchasing is easy. You have three convenient options to buy your Texas hunting license.
Online
Purchase through the official TPWD website or the "Texas Outdoor Annual" mobile app. You'll receive a digital copy immediately.
By Phone
Call the TPWD License Call Center at (800) 895-4248. Have your ID and payment information ready.
In Person
Visit any of the 1,800+ license retailers across the state, including sporting goods stores, some grocery stores, and TPWD offices.