Georgia Hunting License: Cost, Requirements & How to Apply
Your guide to Georgia hunting licenses — costs, seasons, and how to apply through Georgia DNR.
Georgia Hunting License — Quick Facts
- Resident license: from $15.00 — Non-resident: from $100.00
- Managed by: Georgia Department of Natural Resources - Wildlife Resources Division
- License year: 2026-2027 (valid for dates within this period)
- Hunter education required for first-time buyers — complete online
- Discounts available for: senior, youth, disabled veteran, active military, landowner
- Buy online 24/7 at https://georgiawildlife.com/licenses-permits-passes
Georgia Hunting License Fees (2026-2027)
Georgia offers outstanding hunting opportunities managed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Wildlife Resources Division. The Peach State boasts diverse habitats from the Blue Ridge Mountains in the north to the coastal marshes along the Atlantic, supporting white-tailed deer, wild turkey, feral hogs, waterfowl, and abundant small game. Georgia's hunting license year runs from April 1 through March 31. The state has one of the most affordable resident license structures in the country at just $15 for a basic hunting license. The Sportsman's License ($65) is the all-in-one option covering hunting, fishing, and most privileges. Non-residents pay $100 for a basic annual hunting license. Georgia is one of the few states where hunter education is required only for those born on or after January 1, 1961. The state's generous deer bag limits, long seasons, and year-round hog hunting on private land make it a prime destination for southeastern hunters.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Hunting License | $15.00 | — | 1 year | |
| Non-Resident Hunting License | — | $100.00 | 1 year | |
| Resident Sportsman's License | $65.00 | — | 1 year | All hunting + fishing privileges |
| NR Sportsman's License | — | $400.00 | 1 year | All hunting + fishing |
| Big Game License | $19.00 | $73.00 | 1 year | Required for deer, bear, turkey |
| NR 1-Day Hunting License | — | $20.00 | 1 day | Additional consecutive days $6 each |
| GA Waterfowl/Migratory Bird License | $5.00 | $5.00 | 1 year | |
| Youth Sportsman's License (Resident) | $15.00 | — | 1 year | Ages 15 and under |
| Youth Sportsman's License (NR) | — | $50.00 | 1 year | Ages 15 and under |
| Federal Duck Stamp | $30.00 | $30.00 | 1 year |
Prices from Georgia Department of Natural Resources - Wildlife Resources Division. Last verified: 2026-04-01. Always confirm current fees with the official state agency before purchase.
When does your Georgia license expire? See our license validity guide →
Hunter Education Requirements
Required for anyone born on or after January 1, 1961
How to Buy a Georgia 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 Georgia Department of Natural Resources - Wildlife Resources Division 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 Georgia.
Need help? Call Georgia Department of Natural Resources - Wildlife Resources Division at 770-918-6416
Not sure what you need? Use our License Cost Calculator to get a personalized estimate →
Step-by-step: How to buy your hunting license online for any state →
Georgia Hunting Seasons (2026-2027)
| Species | Method | Start Date | End Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White-tailed Deer | Archery | September 12 | January 10, 2027 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Firearms | October 17 | January 10, 2027 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Primitive Weapons | October 10 | October 16 | |
| Turkey | Spring | March 28 | May 15 | |
| Turkey | Fall | October 17 | November 27 | |
| Dove | General | September 5 | January 31, 2027 | |
| Duck | General | November 21 | January 31, 2027 | |
| Wild Hog | Year-round | January 1 | December 31 | No bag limit on private land |
View full Georgia season regulations on GA DNR
Compare deer tag costs and season dates across all 50 states →
Compare turkey license costs and season dates across all states →
Discounts & Exemptions
| Group | Benefit | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Senior | Free | Georgia residents aged 65 and older are exempt from license requirements |
| Youth | Free for under 16 | Youth under 16 may hunt without a license when accompanied by a licensed adult |
| Disabled Veteran | Free | Georgia residents with permanent disability may qualify for free licenses |
| Active Military | Resident rates | Active duty military stationed in Georgia |
| Landowner | Exempt on own land | Resident landowners hunting on their own property |
Georgia Hunting Regulations Overview
Bag Limits
Check species-specific bag limits in the Georgia official regulations. Limits vary by species, management unit, and season.
Legal Methods
Approved hunting methods include firearm, archery, and muzzleloader. Crossbows are legal. Specific rules apply to each method.
Safety Requirements
Blaze orange is required during firearms deer season.
Shooting Hours
Hunting is generally permitted from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Check local variations.
- Daylight fluorescent orange hat or vest required during firearm deer season on public land.
- Feral hogs may be hunted year-round on private land with no bag limit.
- Harvest record is mandatory for all deer — must be reported online within 24 hours.
- Either-sex deer hunting days vary by county.
Read full Georgia regulations on GA DNR
Not sure if you qualify for a discount? Take the Eligibility Quiz →
Recommended Georgia Hunting Gear
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Georgia Hunting License FAQ
How much does a hunting license cost in Georgia?
A resident hunting license in Georgia starts at $15.00. Non-resident licenses start at $100.00. Additional tags and endorsements may be required depending on the species you plan to hunt.
Do I need hunter education to hunt in Georgia?
Yes, Georgia requires hunter education for first-time buyers. Required for anyone born on or after January 1, 1961 The state accepts hunter education certificates from other states.
Can non-residents hunt in Georgia?
Yes, non-residents can purchase a Georgia hunting license. The non-resident general hunting license costs $100.00. Some special tags or units may have limited non-resident allocations.
What is the deer season in Georgia?
Archery: September 12 – January 10, 2027. Firearms: October 17 – January 10, 2027. Primitive Weapons: October 10 – October 16
Are there free hunting licenses in Georgia?
Yes, Georgia offers free or reduced-cost licenses for: senior (Georgia residents aged 65 and older are exempt from license requirements); youth (Youth under 16 may hunt without a license when accompanied by a licensed adult); disabled-veteran (Georgia residents with permanent disability may qualify for free licenses).
Can I buy a Georgia hunting license online?
Yes, you can purchase a Georgia hunting license online through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources - Wildlife Resources Division website at https://georgiawildlife.com/licenses-permits-passes. Licenses may also be available at authorized retail locations.