Florida Hunting License Guide
Complete guide to Florida hunting licenses — costs, seasons, and how to buy through FWC.
Florida Hunting License Fees (2025-2026)
Florida offers diverse hunting opportunities managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The Sunshine State is home to white-tailed deer, wild turkey, wild hog, alligator, and varied small game across habitats ranging from pine flatwoods and cypress swamps to vast wildlife management areas. Hunting licenses are valid from July 1 through June 30 of the following year. Florida's licensing is straightforward — a basic resident hunting license costs just $17, making it one of the most affordable in the nation. The Gold Sportsman's License ($100) is the comprehensive all-in-one option that includes hunting, fishing, and all major permits. Non-residents pay $151.50 for an annual license or $46.50 for a 10-day option. Florida allows year-round hog hunting on private land with no bag limits, and the state's alligator harvest program is one of the most popular specialty hunts in America. Residents aged 65 and older hunt for free with proof of age and residency.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Hunting License | $17.00 | — | 1 year | |
| NR Annual Hunting License | — | $151.50 | 1 year | |
| NR 10-Day Hunting License | — | $46.50 | 10 days | Not valid for turkey |
| Resident Gold Sportsman's License | $100.00 | — | 1 year | All hunting + fishing + all permits |
| Resident Sportsman's License | $80.50 | — | 1 year | Hunting + freshwater fishing + permits |
| Deer Permit | $5.00 | $5.00 | 1 year | |
| Turkey Permit (Resident) | $10.00 | — | 1 year | |
| Turkey Permit (Non-Resident) | — | $125.00 | 1 year | |
| Management Area Permit | $26.50 | $26.50 | 1 year | |
| Archery Permit | $5.00 | $5.00 | 1 year | |
| Muzzleloading Gun Permit | $5.00 | $5.00 | 1 year | |
| Florida Waterfowl Permit | $5.00 | $5.00 | 1 year | |
| Federal Duck Stamp | $30.50 | $30.50 | 1 year |
Prices from Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Last verified: 2026-03-13. Always confirm current fees with the official state agency before purchase.
Hunter Education Requirements
Required for all first-time Florida hunting license purchasers. Online + skills day format available.
How to Buy a Florida 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 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission 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 Florida.
Need help? Call Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 888-486-8356
Florida Hunting Seasons (2025-2026)
| Species | Method | Start Date | End Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White-tailed Deer | Archery | July 27 | October 19 | Dates vary by zone |
| White-tailed Deer | General Gun | November 8 | February 16 | Dates vary by zone |
| White-tailed Deer | Muzzleloader | October 25 | November 7 | Dates vary by zone |
| Turkey | Spring | March 7 | April 20 | Dates vary by zone |
| Wild Hog | Year-round | January 1 | December 31 | No season or bag limit on private land |
| Dove | General | October 4 | January 11 | |
| Duck | General | November 22 | January 26 |
Discounts & Exemptions
| Group | Benefit | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Senior | Free | Florida residents aged 65 and older with proof of age and residency |
| Youth | Free for under 16 | Children under 16 do not need a hunting license |
| Disabled Veteran | Gold Sportsman's License | Permanently and totally disabled Florida residents may qualify for the Gold Sportsman's License at no cost |
| Active Military | Resident rates | Active duty military stationed in Florida treated as residents |
| Landowner | Exempt on own land | Florida residents hunting on their own land of 20+ acres in the county of residence |
Florida Hunting Regulations Overview
Bag Limits
Check species-specific bag limits in the Florida 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 Florida specific requirements.
Shooting Hours
Hunting is generally permitted from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Check local variations.
Recommended Gear for Florida Hunting
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Florida Hunting License FAQ
How much does a hunting license cost in Florida?
A resident hunting license in Florida starts at $17.00. Non-resident licenses start at $151.50. Additional tags and endorsements may be required depending on the species you plan to hunt.
Do I need hunter education to hunt in Florida?
Yes, Florida requires hunter education for first-time buyers. Required for all first-time Florida hunting license purchasers. Online + skills day format available. The state accepts hunter education certificates from other states.
Can non-residents hunt in Florida?
Yes, non-residents can purchase a Florida hunting license. The non-resident general hunting license costs $151.50. Some special tags or units may have limited non-resident allocations.
What is the deer season in Florida?
Archery: July 27 – October 19. General Gun: November 8 – February 16. Muzzleloader: October 25 – November 7
Are there free hunting licenses in Florida?
Yes, Florida offers free or reduced-cost licenses for: senior (Florida residents aged 65 and older with proof of age and residency); youth (Children under 16 do not need a hunting license).
Can I buy a Florida hunting license online?
Yes, you can purchase a Florida hunting license online through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website at https://gooutdoorsflorida.com/. Licenses may also be available at authorized retail locations.