Indiana Hunting License Guide
Complete guide to Indiana hunting licenses — costs, seasons, and how to buy through Indiana DNR.
Indiana Hunting License Fees (2025-2026)
Indiana offers quality hunting managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The Hoosier State provides excellent white-tailed deer, wild turkey, waterfowl, and small game hunting across agricultural lands, hardwood forests, and river bottom habitats. Indiana hunting licenses are valid from April 1 through March 31 of the following year. A resident annual hunting license costs $20, with the deer license bundle at $91 covering one antlered and two antlerless deer. Non-residents pay $90 for the base license and $240 per deer tag. Indiana made headlines by legalizing rifles for deer hunting in recent years, previously restricting hunters to shotguns and handguns. The state's Deer License Bundle is a popular option for serious hunters. Youth (17 and under) get a consolidated $12 license. Hunter education is required for anyone born after December 31, 1986.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Annual Hunting | $20.00 | — | 1 year | |
| NR Annual Hunting | — | $90.00 | 1 year | |
| NR 5-Day Hunting | — | $50.00 | 5 days | |
| Resident Hunt/Fish Combo | $32.00 | — | 1 year | |
| Resident Deer License Bundle | $91.00 | — | Season | 1 antlered + 2 antlerless |
| NR Deer License Bundle | — | $550.00 | Season | |
| Resident Deer (single tag) | $39.00 | — | Season | |
| NR Deer (single tag) | — | $240.00 | Season | |
| Resident Spring Turkey | $32.00 | — | Season | |
| NR Spring Turkey | — | $175.00 | Season | |
| Waterfowl Stamp Privilege | $11.00 | $11.00 | 1 year | |
| Youth Consolidated Hunt/Trap | $12.00 | $20.00 | 1 year | 17 and under |
Prices from Indiana Department of Natural Resources. Last verified: 2026-03-13. Always confirm current fees with the official state agency before purchase.
Hunter Education Requirements
Required for anyone born after December 31, 1986. Apprentice license available.
How to Buy a Indiana 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 Indiana 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 Indiana.
Need help? Call Indiana Department of Natural Resources at 317-232-4200
Indiana Hunting Seasons (2025-2026)
| Species | Method | Start Date | End Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White-tailed Deer | Archery | October 1 | January 4 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Firearms | November 15 | November 30 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Muzzleloader | December 6 | December 21 | |
| Turkey | Spring | April 23 | May 11 | |
| Turkey | Fall | October 15 | November 2 | |
| Pheasant | General | November 1 | December 15 | |
| Duck | General | October 25 | January 12 |
Discounts & Exemptions
| Group | Benefit | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Senior | Reduced | Seniors may qualify for reduced-fee licenses |
| Youth | Reduced ($12) | Youth 17 and under — Consolidated Hunt/Trap license |
| Disabled Veteran | Reduced ($2.75) | Disabled American Veterans (DAV) hunting and fishing |
| Active Military | Resident rates | Active duty military stationed in Indiana |
| Landowner | Exempt on own land | Resident landowners hunting on their own property |
Indiana Hunting Regulations Overview
Bag Limits
Check species-specific bag limits in the Indiana 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 Indiana specific requirements.
Shooting Hours
Hunting is generally permitted from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Check local variations.
Recommended Gear for Indiana Hunting
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Indiana Hunting License FAQ
How much does a hunting license cost in Indiana?
A resident hunting license in Indiana starts at $20.00. Non-resident licenses start at $90.00. Additional tags and endorsements may be required depending on the species you plan to hunt.
Do I need hunter education to hunt in Indiana?
Yes, Indiana requires hunter education for first-time buyers. Required for anyone born after December 31, 1986. Apprentice license available. The state accepts hunter education certificates from other states.
Can non-residents hunt in Indiana?
Yes, non-residents can purchase a Indiana hunting license. The non-resident general hunting license costs $90.00. Some special tags or units may have limited non-resident allocations.
What is the deer season in Indiana?
Archery: October 1 – January 4. Firearms: November 15 – November 30. Muzzleloader: December 6 – December 21
Are there free hunting licenses in Indiana?
Indiana does not offer completely free hunting licenses, but does provide discounts for certain groups including youth, seniors, and military.
Can I buy a Indiana hunting license online?
Yes, you can purchase a Indiana hunting license online through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources website at https://www.in.gov/dnr/fish-and-wildlife/licenses-and-permits/. Licenses may also be available at authorized retail locations.