Illinois Hunting License: Cost, Requirements & How to Apply
Complete guide to Illinois hunting licenses — costs, seasons, and how to buy through IDNR.
Illinois Hunting License — Quick Facts
- Resident license: from $12.50 — Non-resident: from $57.75
- Managed by: Illinois Department of Natural Resources
- 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://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/hunting/Pages/LicensesPermits.aspx
Illinois Hunting License Fees (2026-2027)
Illinois offers excellent hunting managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). The Prairie State is one of the top white-tailed deer hunting states in America, producing numerous Boone and Crockett-class bucks. Illinois also provides outstanding waterfowl hunting along the Illinois and Mississippi River valleys, quality turkey hunting, and upland game opportunities. The state boasts one of the most affordable resident hunting licenses in the nation at just $12.50. A Sportsman's Combination ($26.25) adds fishing. Non-residents pay $57.75 for the annual license but face steep non-resident deer permit fees ($411 for archery). Illinois requires a Firearm Owner Identification (FOID) card for any firearm use. Licenses are valid from date of purchase through March 31 of the following year. The State Habitat Stamp ($5.50) is required for all hunters.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Annual Hunting | $12.50 | — | 1 year | |
| NR Annual Hunting | — | $57.75 | 1 year | |
| NR 5-Day Hunting | — | $35.75 | 5 days | |
| Resident Sportsman's Combo (Hunt + Fish) | $26.25 | — | 1 year | |
| Resident Senior Hunting (65-74) | $6.50 | — | 1 year | |
| Resident Super Senior (75+) | $1.50 | — | 1 year | |
| Youth Hunt/Trap Combo | $7.50 | — | 1 year | |
| State Habitat Stamp | $5.50 | $5.50 | 1 year | Required for all hunters |
| NR Deer Archery Permit | — | $411.00 | Season | |
| NR Deer Firearm Permit Application | — | $325.00 | Season | |
| State Migratory Waterfowl Stamp | $15.50 | $15.50 | 1 year | |
| Federal Duck Stamp | $25.50 | $25.50 | 1 year |
Prices from Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Last verified: 2026-04-01. Always confirm current fees with the official state agency before purchase.
When does your Illinois license expire? See our license validity guide →
Hunter Education Requirements
Required for anyone born on or after January 1, 1980. FOID card required for firearm hunting.
How to Buy a Illinois 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 Illinois Department of Natural Resources 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 Illinois.
Need help? Call Illinois Department of Natural Resources at 217-782-6302
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 →
Illinois Hunting Seasons (2026-2027)
| Species | Method | Start Date | End Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White-tailed Deer | Archery | October 1 | January 17, 2027 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Firearm (1st Season) | November 20 | November 22 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Firearm (2nd Season) | December 3 | December 6 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Muzzleloader | December 11 | December 13 | |
| Turkey | Spring | April 6 | May 7 | |
| Turkey | Fall | October 10 | January 17, 2027 | |
| Pheasant | General | November 7 | January 10, 2027 | |
| Duck | General | October 17 | January 20, 2027 |
View full Illinois season regulations on IDNR
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 | Reduced ($6.50 age 65-74, $1.50 age 75+) | Illinois residents 65-74 or 75+ |
| Youth | Reduced ($7.50) | Youth hunting and trapping combo |
| Disabled Veteran | Free | Illinois veterans with 50%+ service-connected disability |
| Active Military | Resident rates | Active duty military stationed in Illinois |
| Landowner | Exempt on own land | Resident landowners hunting on their own property (160+ acres) |
Illinois Hunting Regulations Overview
Bag Limits
Check species-specific bag limits in the Illinois 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.
- Blaze orange or blaze pink cap and upper outer garment required during firearm deer season.
- FOID card required for all firearm hunting in Illinois.
- No rifle hunting for deer — shotguns, muzzleloaders, and handguns only.
- Illinois is consistently ranked among the top states for trophy white-tailed deer.
Read full Illinois regulations on IDNR
Not sure if you qualify for a discount? Take the Eligibility Quiz →
Recommended Illinois Hunting Gear
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Illinois Hunting License FAQ
How much does a hunting license cost in Illinois?
A resident hunting license in Illinois starts at $12.50. Non-resident licenses start at $57.75. Additional tags and endorsements may be required depending on the species you plan to hunt.
Do I need hunter education to hunt in Illinois?
Yes, Illinois requires hunter education for first-time buyers. Required for anyone born on or after January 1, 1980. FOID card required for firearm hunting. The state accepts hunter education certificates from other states.
Can non-residents hunt in Illinois?
Yes, non-residents can purchase a Illinois hunting license. The non-resident general hunting license costs $57.75. Some special tags or units may have limited non-resident allocations.
What is the deer season in Illinois?
Archery: October 1 – January 17, 2027. Firearm (1st Season): November 20 – November 22. Firearm (2nd Season): December 3 – December 6. Muzzleloader: December 11 – December 13
Are there free hunting licenses in Illinois?
Yes, Illinois offers free or reduced-cost licenses for: disabled-veteran (Illinois veterans with 50%+ service-connected disability).
Can I buy a Illinois hunting license online?
Yes, you can purchase a Illinois hunting license online through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website at https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/hunting/Pages/LicensesPermits.aspx. Licenses may also be available at authorized retail locations.