Minnesota Hunting License: Cost, Requirements & How to Apply (2026)
Complete guide to Minnesota hunting license costs, requirements, seasons, and regulations for the Mar 1, 2025 – Feb 28, 2026 season.
Minnesota Hunting License Fees 2026
Current hunting license costs for residents and non-residents. License year: Mar 1, 2025 – Feb 28, 2026.
Resident Licenses
Non-Resident Licenses
Tags & Permits
Endorsements & Stamps
How to Buy a Minnesota Hunting License
Multiple convenient options to get your license quickly.
Buy Online (Recommended)
Visit MN DNR license page. Create an account or sign in. Select deer/turkey/small game license. Apply for lottery permits as needed. Pay with credit/debit card (3% convenience fee). Tags mailed within 5-10 business days
Buy In Person
Walmart stores statewide, Fleet Farm, Local sporting goods stores, County license agents
Buy By Phone
Call 888-646-6367. $1 agent fee
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The easiest way to buy your Minnesota hunting license is online through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. You'll get your license instantly and can start hunting right away.
Hunter Education Requirements in Minnesota
Who Can Hunt for Free (or at a Discount) in Minnesota?
Minnesota Hunting Seasons 2026-2027
Key hunting season dates and weapon restrictions.
Minnesota Bag Limits
Daily and seasonal harvest limits for major game species.
How Minnesota Compares to Neighboring States
See how hunting license costs stack up in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions About Minnesota Hunting Licenses
How much is a hunting license in Minnesota?
Minnesota deer licenses cost $34 for residents and $185 for non-residents. Youth 10-12 hunt free, ages 13-17 pay just $5. Small game is $18 (res) / $88 (NR). Turkey tags are $26 res / $96 NR.
Can non-residents hunt moose in Minnesota?
No, Minnesota's moose hunt is limited to residents only through an extremely competitive once-in-a-lifetime lottery ($310). Each permit allows a party of up to 4 hunters. Very few permits are issued annually.
Can I hunt bear in Minnesota?
Yes, bear hunting is available through a lottery draw. Tags cost $44 (res) / $225 (NR). Seasons run Sep 1 – Oct 19 in northern Minnesota. Bear populations are concentrated in the northern counties.
Is Minnesota good for pheasant hunting?
Yes, southwestern Minnesota has excellent pheasant hunting though populations fluctuate annually. A $7.50 Pheasant Stamp is required. Daily limit is 2 roosters. Public Walk-In Access lands provide good opportunities.
What stamps are needed for waterfowl?
Waterfowl hunters need a MN Waterfowl Stamp ($7.50), Federal Duck Stamp ($25), and HIP certification (free). Minnesota is a top Mississippi Flyway state for ducks and geese. Daily duck limit is 6.
How long is Minnesota's archery season?
Minnesota's archery season runs Sep 13 – Dec 31, over 3.5 months. Crossbows are legal. No lottery needed — purchase your archery deer license directly. This is one of the longest archery seasons in the Midwest.
Do I need hunter education in Minnesota?
Yes, all hunters born on or after January 1, 1980 must complete hunter education. Minnesota offers a free online course with a required field day. Minimum age is 11.
Can I buy a Minnesota hunting license online?
Yes, at dnr.state.mn.us. A $1 agent fee plus 3% online convenience fee applies. Physical tags may take 5-10 days to arrive by mail. Also available at Walmart, Fleet Farm, and local agents.