South Carolina Hunting License Guide
Complete guide to South Carolina hunting licenses — costs, seasons, and how to buy through SCDNR.
South Carolina Hunting License Fees (2025-2026)
South Carolina provides excellent hunting opportunities managed by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). The Palmetto State offers white-tailed deer, wild turkey, waterfowl, and diverse small game across varied terrain including piedmont hardwoods, coastal lowcountry, and vast tracts of managed public land. South Carolina is known for its generous deer seasons — one of the longest in the nation — and its growing alligator management program. The state's licensing is built around the Sportsman License, which covers both hunting and fishing. Resident hunters aged 64 and older can purchase a Lifetime Fishing & Hunting License for just $9. A Big Game Permit is required for deer and turkey hunting. Non-residents need to purchase deer tags separately, with the first antlered buck tag at $50. The state also features popular hog hunting with no season or bag limits on private land. Hunter education is required for anyone born after June 30, 1979.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Sportsman License (Hunt + Fish) | $50.00 | — | 1 year | |
| NR Annual Hunting License | — | $125.00 | 1 year | |
| NR 3-Day State Hunting | — | $40.00 | 3 days | |
| NR Annual Big Game Permit | — | $100.00 | 1 year | |
| NR First Buck Tag | — | $50.00 | Season | First antlered buck tag |
| NR Additional Antlered Deer Tag | — | $20.00 | Season | Up to 3 additional ($20 each) |
| NR Antlerless Deer Tag | — | $10.00 | Season | Up to 4 tags ($10 each) |
| Junior Sportsman License (16-17) | $16.00 | — | 1 year | |
| 3-Year Resident Sportsman License | $150.00 | — | 3 years | |
| Lifetime Fishing & Hunting (64+) | $9.00 | — | Lifetime | Residents 64+ with 180+ days residency |
| NR WMA Permit | — | $76.00 | 1 year | |
| NR Alligator Hunting Fee | — | $200.00 | Season | |
| Federal Duck Stamp | $30.00 | $30.00 | 1 year |
Prices from South Carolina 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 June 30, 1979
How to Buy a South Carolina 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 South Carolina 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 South Carolina.
Need help? Call South Carolina Department of Natural Resources at 803-734-3886
South Carolina Hunting Seasons (2025-2026)
| Species | Method | Start Date | End Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White-tailed Deer | Archery | September 15 | October 10 | Dates vary by zone |
| White-tailed Deer | Firearms | October 11 | January 1 | Dates vary by zone |
| White-tailed Deer | Muzzleloader | October 1 | October 10 | Dates vary by zone |
| Turkey | Spring | April 1 | May 1 | |
| Dove | General | September 6 | January 15 | |
| Duck | General | November 22 | January 26 | |
| Wild Hog | Year-round | January 1 | December 31 | No season or bag limit on private land |
| Alligator | Lottery | September 13 | October 11 | Lottery tag required |
Discounts & Exemptions
| Group | Benefit | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Senior | Lifetime for $9 | South Carolina residents aged 64+ with 180+ days residency |
| Youth | Free for under 16 | Youth under 16 do not need a license |
| Disabled Veteran | Free | SC residents with permanent service-connected disability |
| Active Military | Resident rates | Active duty military stationed in South Carolina |
| Landowner | Exempt on own land | Resident landowners hunting on their own property in county of residence |
South Carolina Hunting Regulations Overview
Bag Limits
Check species-specific bag limits in the South Carolina 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 South Carolina specific requirements.
Shooting Hours
Hunting is generally permitted from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Check local variations.
Recommended Gear for South Carolina Hunting
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South Carolina Hunting License FAQ
How much does a hunting license cost in South Carolina?
A resident hunting license in South Carolina starts at $16.00. Non-resident licenses start at $125.00. Additional tags and endorsements may be required depending on the species you plan to hunt.
Do I need hunter education to hunt in South Carolina?
Yes, South Carolina requires hunter education for first-time buyers. Required for anyone born after June 30, 1979 The state accepts hunter education certificates from other states.
Can non-residents hunt in South Carolina?
Yes, non-residents can purchase a South Carolina hunting license. The non-resident general hunting license costs $125.00. Some special tags or units may have limited non-resident allocations.
What is the deer season in South Carolina?
Archery: September 15 – October 10. Firearms: October 11 – January 1. Muzzleloader: October 1 – October 10
Are there free hunting licenses in South Carolina?
Yes, South Carolina offers free or reduced-cost licenses for: youth (Youth under 16 do not need a license); disabled-veteran (SC residents with permanent service-connected disability).
Can I buy a South Carolina hunting license online?
Yes, you can purchase a South Carolina hunting license online through the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website at https://www.dnr.sc.gov/purchase.html. Licenses may also be available at authorized retail locations.