New Hampshire Hunting License Guide
Complete guide to New Hampshire hunting licenses — costs, seasons, and how to buy through NH Fish and Game.
New Hampshire Hunting License Fees (2025-2026)
New Hampshire offers excellent hunting in the heart of New England, managed by the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department. The Granite State features rugged White Mountain terrain, mixed hardwood forests, and river valleys supporting white-tailed deer, moose, black bear, wild turkey, and diverse small game. A resident hunting license costs $32, while non-residents pay $113. A $2.50 wildlife habitat fee is required for all hunters. New Hampshire has an active moose hunting program via lottery and is known for challenging backcountry hunting. The state offers discounted senior licenses for residents 68+ and free permanent licenses for residents born in or before 1947. Hunter education or proof of a previous license is required. Licenses are valid on a calendar year basis.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Hunting License | $32.00 | — | Calendar year | |
| NR Hunting License | — | $113.00 | Calendar year | |
| Resident Hunt/Fish Combination | $56.00 | — | Calendar year | |
| NR Hunt/Fish Combination | — | $151.00 | Calendar year | |
| Resident Archery | $32.00 | — | Calendar year | |
| NR Archery | — | $83.00 | Calendar year | |
| Resident Bear License | $16.00 | — | Season | |
| NR Bear License | — | $48.00 | Season | |
| Resident Turkey Permit | $16.00 | — | Season | |
| NR Turkey Permit | — | $31.00 | Season | |
| Resident Muzzleloader | $16.00 | — | Season | |
| NR Muzzleloader | — | $41.00 | Season | |
| NR Small-game Hunting | — | $53.00 | Calendar year | |
| NR Small-game 3-Day | — | $25.00 | 3 days |
Prices from New Hampshire Fish and Game Department. Last verified: 2026-03-13. Always confirm current fees with the official state agency before purchase.
Hunter Education Requirements
Proof of hunter education or previously held hunting license required
How to Buy a New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department 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 New Hampshire.
Need help? Call New Hampshire Fish and Game Department at 603-271-3421
New Hampshire Hunting Seasons (2025-2026)
| Species | Method | Start Date | End Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White-tailed Deer | Archery | September 15 | December 15 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Firearms | November 12 | December 6 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Muzzleloader | October 25 | November 4 | |
| Moose | Lottery Draw | October 18 | October 26 | 9 days — lottery only |
| Black Bear | General | September 1 | November 12 | |
| Turkey | Spring | May 1 | May 31 | |
| Turkey | Fall | October 1 | October 31 | |
| Duck | General | October 1 | December 31 |
Discounts & Exemptions
| Group | Benefit | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Senior | Reduced ($7) or Free | Residents 68+ (born 1948 or later): discounted. Born 1947 or earlier: free permanent license |
| Youth | Free for under 16 | Youth under 16 may hunt with licensed adult supervision |
| Disabled Veteran | Free | NH veterans with permanent total disability |
| Active Military | Resident rates | Active duty military stationed in New Hampshire |
New Hampshire Hunting Regulations Overview
Bag Limits
Check species-specific bag limits in the New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire specific requirements.
Shooting Hours
Hunting is generally permitted from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Check local variations.
Recommended Gear for New Hampshire Hunting
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New Hampshire Hunting License FAQ
How much does a hunting license cost in New Hampshire?
A resident hunting license in New Hampshire starts at $32.00. Non-resident licenses start at $113.00. Additional tags and endorsements may be required depending on the species you plan to hunt.
Do I need hunter education to hunt in New Hampshire?
Yes, New Hampshire requires hunter education for first-time buyers. Proof of hunter education or previously held hunting license required The state accepts hunter education certificates from other states.
Can non-residents hunt in New Hampshire?
Yes, non-residents can purchase a New Hampshire hunting license. The non-resident general hunting license costs $113.00. Some special tags or units may have limited non-resident allocations.
What is the deer season in New Hampshire?
Archery: September 15 – December 15. Firearms: November 12 – December 6. Muzzleloader: October 25 – November 4
Are there free hunting licenses in New Hampshire?
Yes, New Hampshire offers free or reduced-cost licenses for: senior (Residents 68+ (born 1948 or later): discounted. Born 1947 or earlier: free permanent license); youth (Youth under 16 may hunt with licensed adult supervision); disabled-veteran (NH veterans with permanent total disability).
Can I buy a New Hampshire hunting license online?
Yes, you can purchase a New Hampshire hunting license online through the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department website at https://www.wildlife.nh.gov/licensing. Licenses may also be available at authorized retail locations.