North Dakota Hunting License: Cost, Requirements & How to Apply (2026)
Complete guide to North Dakota hunting license costs, requirements, seasons, and regulations for the Aug 1, 2025 – Mar 31, 2026 (season specific) season.
North Dakota Hunting License Fees 2026
Current hunting license costs for residents and non-residents. License year: Aug 1, 2025 – Mar 31, 2026 (season specific).
Resident Licenses
Non-Resident Licenses
Tags & Permits
Endorsements & Stamps
How to Buy a North Dakota Hunting License
Multiple convenient options to get your license quickly.
Buy Online (Recommended)
Visit gf.nd.gov. Create account or sign in. Purchase General Game & Habitat + Certificate. Apply for deer lottery during application period. Pay with credit/debit card. Print your license
Buy In Person
County auditor offices, Local sporting goods stores, Game & Fish offices
Buy By Phone
Call 701-328-6300. Processing fee may apply
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The easiest way to buy your North Dakota hunting license is online through the North Dakota Game and Fish Department. You'll get your license instantly and can start hunting right away.
Hunter Education Requirements in North Dakota
Who Can Hunt for Free (or at a Discount) in North Dakota?
North Dakota Hunting Seasons 2026-2027
Key hunting season dates and weapon restrictions.
North Dakota Bag Limits
Daily and seasonal harvest limits for major game species.
How North Dakota Compares to Neighboring States
See how hunting license costs stack up in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions About North Dakota Hunting Licenses
How much is a deer tag in North Dakota?
Resident deer tags cost $35 (up from $30 before Aug 2025). Non-resident tags increased from $250 to $350. Both require General Game & Habitat ($20) and Certificate ($1 res/$2 NR). All deer tags are awarded by lottery draw.
Did North Dakota raise hunting fees?
Yes, House Bill 1470 (effective August 1, 2025) increased resident deer from $30 to $35 and non-resident deer from $250 to $350. Most other fees also increased.
Can non-residents hunt elk in North Dakota?
Generally no. North Dakota elk tags are primarily for residents only through a once-in-lifetime lottery draw. About 1,062 elk licenses were available for fall 2026. This is one of the most affordable elk hunts at just $30.
Is North Dakota good for upland hunting?
Excellent. North Dakota has strong pheasant and sharp-tailed grouse populations. Daily limit is 3 roosters with no season limit. Season runs October through early January.
How does NR waterfowl hunting work in ND?
Non-residents need a $150 NR Waterfowl License plus the $20 General Game & Habitat, $2 Certificate, and Federal Duck Stamp ($25). ND has outstanding duck/goose hunting in the Prairie Pothole Region.
What is ND's archery deer season?
North Dakota's archery season runs from late August through early January — one of the longest in the region. No draw required for resident archery licenses. Both bow and crossbow are legal.
Can I buy a North Dakota hunting license online?
Yes, at gf.nd.gov. Lottery applications for deer and big game have specific application windows. OTC licenses are also available at county auditor offices and sporting goods stores.
Are there CWD restrictions in North Dakota?
Yes, Chronic Wasting Disease has been detected in ND deer. CWD management zones have mandatory testing requirements and restrictions on carcass transport. Check current CWD zone maps before hunting.