Colorado Hunting License Guide
Your complete guide to Colorado hunting licenses — elk, deer, and more through Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
Colorado Hunting License Fees (2025-2026)
Colorado is a premier destination for big game hunting in the American West, managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW). The state is renowned for its elk hunting, attracting hundreds of thousands of hunters annually. Colorado uses a combination of over-the-counter (OTC) and draw-based licensing. Resident hunters benefit from significantly lower fees, while non-residents face some of the highest big game license costs in the country. All hunters must first purchase an Annual Small Game License as a qualifying license before purchasing big game tags. A Habitat Stamp ($12.76) is required for hunters aged 18-64. Colorado's draw system uses preference points for most big game species, and applications open in March each year. The state offers diverse terrain from alpine meadows above timberline to semi-arid plains in the east, supporting a wide variety of game species including elk, mule deer, pronghorn, black bear, moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain lion.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Small Game (qualifying) | $38.49 | — | 1 year | |
| Non-Resident Small Game (qualifying) | — | $104.86 | 1 year | |
| Resident Elk | $70.40 | — | Season | |
| Non-Resident Elk | — | $845.16 | Season | |
| Resident Deer | $51.25 | — | Season | |
| Non-Resident Deer | — | $506.92 | Season | |
| Resident Black Bear | $64.01 | — | Season | |
| Non-Resident Black Bear | — | $302.56 | Season | |
| Resident Turkey | — | — | Season | Included in small game license |
| Non-Resident Turkey | — | $188.86 | Season | |
| Resident Moose (draw) | $385.66 | — | Season | Limited draw only |
| Non-Resident Moose (draw) | — | $2823.53 | Season | Limited draw only |
| Habitat Stamp | $12.76 | $12.76 | 1 year | Required ages 18-64 |
Prices from Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Last verified: 2026-03-13. Always confirm current fees with the official state agency before purchase.
Hunter Education Requirements
How to Buy a Colorado Hunting License
- 1
Complete Hunter Education
If required, complete a state-approved hunter education course before purchasing your license.
- 2
Gather Required Documents
Have your government-issued photo ID, Social Security Number, and proof of residency (if applicable) ready.
- 3
Visit the Official Portal
Go to Colorado Parks and Wildlife or an authorized retail agent (Walmart, sporting goods stores).
- 4
Select License Type & Pay
Choose the appropriate license type for your needs, add any required endorsements or tags, and complete payment.
- 5
Print or Save Your License
Print your license or save a digital copy. You must carry your valid license while hunting in Colorado.
Need help? Call Colorado Parks and Wildlife at 303-297-1192
Colorado Hunting Seasons (2025-2026)
| Species | Method | Start Date | End Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elk | Archery | August 30 | September 28 | |
| Elk | Muzzleloader | September 13 | September 21 | |
| Elk | Rifle (Combined) | October 11 | November 16 | |
| Mule Deer | Archery | August 30 | September 28 | |
| Mule Deer | Rifle | October 11 | November 16 | |
| Pronghorn | Archery | August 15 | September 20 | |
| Pronghorn | Rifle | October 1 | October 31 | |
| Black Bear | General | September 2 | November 16 | |
| Turkey | Spring | April 12 | May 25 |
Discounts & Exemptions
| Group | Benefit | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Youth | Reduced | Youth big game tags at discounted rate ($20.30) |
| Senior | Reduced | 65+ exempt from Habitat Stamp requirement |
| Disabled Veteran | Reduced | Disabled veterans may qualify for reduced-fee licenses |
| Active Military | Resident rates | Active duty stationed in Colorado with orders |
Colorado Hunting Regulations Overview
Bag Limits
Check species-specific bag limits in the Colorado official regulations. Limits vary by species, management unit, and season.
Legal Methods
Approved hunting methods include firearm, archery, and muzzleloader. Specific rules apply to each method.
Safety Requirements
Blaze orange/pink clothing may be required during firearms seasons. Check Colorado specific requirements.
Shooting Hours
Hunting is generally permitted from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Check local variations.
Recommended Gear for Colorado Hunting
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Colorado Hunting License FAQ
How much does a hunting license cost in Colorado?
A resident hunting license in Colorado starts at $38.49. Non-resident licenses start at $104.86. Additional tags and endorsements may be required depending on the species you plan to hunt.
Do I need hunter education to hunt in Colorado?
Yes, Colorado requires hunter education for first-time buyers. The state accepts hunter education certificates from other states.
Can non-residents hunt in Colorado?
Yes, non-residents can purchase a Colorado hunting license. The non-resident general hunting license costs $104.86. Some special tags or units may have limited non-resident allocations.
What is the deer season in Colorado?
Archery: August 30 – September 28. Rifle: October 11 – November 16
Are there free hunting licenses in Colorado?
Colorado does not offer completely free hunting licenses, but does provide discounts for certain groups including youth, seniors, and military.
Can I buy a Colorado hunting license online?
Yes, you can purchase a Colorado hunting license online through the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website at https://cpw.state.co.us/buyapply. Licenses may also be available at authorized retail locations.