Nevada Hunting License Guide
Complete guide to Nevada hunting licenses — costs, seasons, and how to buy through NDOW.
Nevada Hunting License Fees (2025-2026)
Nevada offers outstanding hunting managed by the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW). The Silver State features vast basin-and-range desert terrain, mountain ranges, and Great Basin habitat supporting mule deer, pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, elk, mountain lion, upland game birds including chukar and quail, and waterfowl. A resident hunting license costs $38, with the combo hunt/fish at $75. Non-residents pay $155 for the combo. Nevada uses a bonus point draw system for big game — one of the most competitive in the West. The state is famous for producing world-record bighorn sheep. Youth licenses (12-17) are just $15 for both residents and non-residents. Nevada also offers specialty licenses for seniors 65+, disabled veterans, and military at $10-15. Licenses are valid for 365 days from purchase.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Adult Hunting | $38.00 | — | 365 days | |
| Resident Adult Combo Hunt/Fish | $75.00 | — | 365 days | |
| NR Adult Combo Hunt/Fish | — | $155.00 | 365 days | |
| Youth Combo (12-17) | $15.00 | $15.00 | 365 days | |
| Resident Specialty Combo (65+/Vet/Disabled) | $15.00 | — | 365 days | |
| NR Mountain Lion Tag | — | $105.00 | Season | |
| NR 1-Day Combo (upland/waterfowl) | — | $23.00 | 1 day | |
| Big Game Application Fee | $10.00 | $10.00 | Per species | |
| Elk Application Fee | $15.00 | $15.00 | Per species | |
| Bonus Point Only Fee | $11.00 | $11.00 | Per species |
Prices from Nevada Department of Wildlife. Last verified: 2026-03-13. Always confirm current fees with the official state agency before purchase.
Hunter Education Requirements
Required for all first-time buyers. Apprentice license available at NDOW offices.
How to Buy a Nevada 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 Nevada Department of 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 Nevada.
Need help? Call Nevada Department of Wildlife at 775-688-1500
Nevada Hunting Seasons (2025-2026)
| Species | Method | Start Date | End Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mule Deer | General | October 10 | November 2 | Draw required |
| Pronghorn Antelope | General | August 9 | August 24 | |
| Elk | General | September 15 | November 15 | Draw required |
| Bighorn Sheep | General | September 1 | December 31 | Draw required |
| Mountain Lion | General | February 13 | December 31 | |
| Chukar | General | October 11 | February 1 | |
| California Quail | General | October 11 | February 1 | |
| Duck | General | October 11 | January 18 |
Discounts & Exemptions
| Group | Benefit | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Senior | Reduced ($15 specialty combo) | Nevada residents 65+ — $15 specialty combo |
| Youth | Reduced ($15) | Youth 12-17 — $15 combo for both residents and non-residents |
| Disabled Veteran | Reduced ($15) | Disabled veterans — $15 specialty combo |
| Active Military | Resident rates ($15) | Active military — $15 specialty combo; NR stationed in NV get resident rates |
Nevada Hunting Regulations Overview
Bag Limits
Check species-specific bag limits in the Nevada 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 Nevada specific requirements.
Shooting Hours
Hunting is generally permitted from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Check local variations.
Recommended Gear for Nevada Hunting
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Nevada Hunting License FAQ
How much does a hunting license cost in Nevada?
A resident hunting license in Nevada starts at $38.00. Non-resident licenses start at N/A. Additional tags and endorsements may be required depending on the species you plan to hunt.
Do I need hunter education to hunt in Nevada?
Yes, Nevada requires hunter education for first-time buyers. Required for all first-time buyers. Apprentice license available at NDOW offices. The state accepts hunter education certificates from other states.
Can non-residents hunt in Nevada?
Yes, non-residents can purchase a Nevada hunting license. The non-resident general hunting license costs N/A. Some special tags or units may have limited non-resident allocations.
What is the deer season in Nevada?
General: October 10 – November 2
Are there free hunting licenses in Nevada?
Nevada does not offer completely free hunting licenses, but does provide discounts for certain groups including youth, seniors, and military.
Can I buy a Nevada hunting license online?
Yes, you can purchase a Nevada hunting license online through the Nevada Department of Wildlife website at https://ndow.org/licensing/. Licenses may also be available at authorized retail locations.