Illinois Hunting License: Cost, Requirements & How to Apply (2026)
Complete guide to Illinois hunting license costs, requirements, seasons, and regulations for the Mar 1, 2025 – Mar 31, 2026 season.
Illinois Hunting License Fees 2026
Current hunting license costs for residents and non-residents. License year: Mar 1, 2025 – Mar 31, 2026.
Resident Licenses
Non-Resident Licenses
Tags & Permits
Endorsements & Stamps
How to Buy a Illinois Hunting License
Multiple convenient options to get your license quickly.
Buy Online (Recommended)
Visit exploremoreil.com. Create an account or sign in. Purchase hunting license + Habitat Stamp. Apply for deer/turkey permits during lottery periods. Pay with credit/debit card. Print or save your licenses and permits
Buy In Person
Walmart stores statewide, Bass Pro Shops / Cabela's, Local sporting goods stores, IDNR regional offices
Buy By Phone
Call 217-782-6302. Service fee may apply
Shop for hunting gear at our partners:
The easiest way to buy your Illinois hunting license is online through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. You'll get your license instantly and can start hunting right away.
Hunter Education Requirements in Illinois
Who Can Hunt for Free (or at a Discount) in Illinois?
Illinois Hunting Seasons 2026-2027
Key hunting season dates and weapon restrictions.
Illinois Bag Limits
Daily and seasonal harvest limits for major game species.
How Illinois Compares to Neighboring States
See how hunting license costs stack up in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions About Illinois Hunting Licenses
How much is a hunting license in Illinois?
A resident hunting license costs $12.50 plus $5.50 Habitat Stamp ($18 total — one of the cheapest in the US). Non-residents pay $57.75. Deer permits are $17 resident / $329-$410 non-resident. The Sportsman Combo ($48) bundles hunting + fishing + stamp.
Can you use a rifle to hunt deer in Illinois?
No. Illinois prohibits rifles for deer hunting in most areas. Legal weapons: shotguns with slugs, muzzleloaders, handguns (.30 cal+), and archery. Some counties now allow straight-wall cartridge rifles. Always check county-specific regulations.
How much is a non-resident deer tag in Illinois?
Non-resident deer archery combo permits cost $410 (OTC). Firearm deer lottery permits are $329. Illinois is famous for Boone & Crockett whitetails — Pike, Adams, and Brown counties consistently produce record-class bucks.
How does the NR deer draw work in Illinois?
Illinois allocates NR firearm deer permits through county-specific lottery draws. NR archery permits have greater availability — most are OTC (over the counter). Residents have a priority application period before NR applications open in August.
What is the Habitat Stamp?
Illinois requires a $5.50 Habitat Stamp for all hunters. Revenue funds wildlife habitat conservation. Waterfowl hunters also need an IL Migratory Waterfowl Stamp ($15) plus the Federal Duck Stamp ($25). Hunters 75+ are exempt from the Habitat Stamp.
How long is Illinois archery season?
Illinois has one of America's longest archery seasons: October 1 through January 18 (3.5 months). Crossbows are legal during the entire season. The extended archery-only period offers the best chance at trophy bucks with less pressure.
Do landowners hunt free in Illinois?
Yes, qualified resident landowners with 40+ acres receive free deer and fall turkey permits. Non-resident landowners of qualifying IL property can also apply for special eligibility permits. Landowner tags are some of the best in the Midwest.
Can I buy an Illinois hunting license online?
Yes, at exploremoreil.com. Deer and turkey permits are available through lottery draws with resident-first application periods. Licenses also available at Walmart, Bass Pro Shops, sporting goods stores, and IDNR offices.