North Dakota Hunting License: Cost, Requirements & How to Apply
Complete guide to North Dakota hunting licenses — costs, seasons, and how to buy through ND Game and Fish.
North Dakota Hunting License — Quick Facts
- Resident license: from N/A — Non-resident: from N/A
- Managed by: North Dakota Game and Fish Department
- License year: 2025-2026 (valid for dates within this period)
- Hunter education required for first-time buyers — complete online
- Discounts available for: senior, youth, disabled veteran, active military
- Buy online 24/7 at https://gf.nd.gov/licensing
North Dakota Hunting License Fees (2025-2026)
North Dakota is a premier hunting destination managed by the North Dakota Game and Fish Department. The Peace Garden State is famous for world-class waterfowl hunting along the Central Flyway, outstanding upland bird hunting (especially pheasant and sharp-tailed grouse), and quality white-tailed and mule deer hunting in its western badlands. North Dakota uses a combination license system with separate General Game and Habitat licenses required. The state recently proposed fee increases for 2025, with resident small game at $20 and non-resident small game at $150. Non-resident big game and bow licenses are $350. North Dakota is one of few states with swan hunting permits. The state manages access to private land through its innovative Private Land Open To Sportsmen (PLOTS) program. Hunter education is required for all first-time buyers.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Small Game | $20.00 | — | 1 year | |
| NR Small Game | — | $150.00 | 1 year | |
| Resident Big Game | $35.00 | — | Season | Youth under 16: $10 |
| NR Big Game/Bow | — | $350.00 | Season | |
| Resident Combination | $62.00 | — | 1 year | Fish + game + habitat + small game + furbearer |
| Resident Turkey Permit | $20.00 | — | Season | |
| NR Turkey Permit | — | $100.00 | Season | |
| General Game and Habitat License | — | — | 1 year | Required for most hunting licenses |
| NR Nongame Hunting | — | $25.00 | 1 year | |
| Federal Waterfowl Stamp | $25.00 | $25.00 | 1 year |
Prices from North Dakota Game and Fish Department. Last verified: 2026-04-01. Always confirm current fees with the official state agency before purchase.
When does your North Dakota license expire? See our license validity guide →
Hunter Education Requirements
Required for all first-time buyers
How to Buy a North Dakota 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 North Dakota Game and Fish 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 North Dakota.
Need help? Call North Dakota Game and Fish Department at 701-328-6300
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 →
North Dakota Hunting Seasons (2025-2026)
| Species | Method | Start Date | End Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White-tailed Deer | Archery | August 29 | January 4 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Firearms | November 7 | November 23 | |
| Mule Deer | Firearms | November 7 | November 23 | Western units |
| Antelope | Firearms | October 3 | October 19 | |
| Turkey | Spring | April 12 | May 18 | |
| Turkey | Fall | October 11 | January 4 | |
| Pheasant | General | October 11 | January 4 | |
| Duck | General | September 27 | December 7 | |
| Sharp-tailed Grouse | General | September 13 | January 4 |
View full North Dakota season regulations on NDG&F
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 | Residents 65+ with reduced fishing license; may apply to hunting |
| Youth | Reduced ($10) | Youth under 16 — big game license $10 |
| Disabled Veteran | Free or Reduced | Veterans with 100% service-related disability — combination license $10 |
| Active Military | Resident rates | ND residents on active military duty — can hunt/fish on leave without license |
North Dakota Hunting Regulations Overview
Bag Limits
Check species-specific bag limits in the North Dakota 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.
- 400 square inches of blaze orange above the waist required during firearms big game season.
- PLOTS program provides access to private land for public hunting.
- North Dakota is one of the nation's top waterfowl hunting destinations.
- Swan permits available through special draw.
Read full North Dakota regulations on NDG&F
Not sure if you qualify for a discount? Take the Eligibility Quiz →
Recommended North Dakota Hunting Gear
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more
North Dakota Hunting License FAQ
How much does a hunting license cost in North Dakota?
A resident hunting license in North Dakota starts at N/A. 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 North Dakota?
Yes, North Dakota requires hunter education for first-time buyers. Required for all first-time buyers The state accepts hunter education certificates from other states.
Can non-residents hunt in North Dakota?
Yes, non-residents can purchase a North Dakota 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 North Dakota?
Archery: August 29 – January 4. Firearms: November 7 – November 23. Firearms: November 7 – November 23
Are there free hunting licenses in North Dakota?
Yes, North Dakota offers free or reduced-cost licenses for: disabled-veteran (Veterans with 100% service-related disability — combination license $10).
Can I buy a North Dakota hunting license online?
Yes, you can purchase a North Dakota hunting license online through the North Dakota Game and Fish Department website at https://gf.nd.gov/licensing. Licenses may also be available at authorized retail locations.