Ohio Hunting License: Cost, Requirements & How to Apply (2026)
Complete guide to Ohio hunting license costs, requirements, seasons, and regulations for the Mar 1, 2025 – Feb 28, 2026 season.
Ohio 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 Ohio Hunting License
Multiple convenient options to get your license quickly.
Buy Online (Recommended)
Visit wildohio.gov or download the HuntFish OH app. Create an account or sign in. Select your license type and permits. Verify hunter education if applicable. Pay with credit/debit card. Print or use digital license on the app
Buy In Person
Walmart stores statewide, Bass Pro Shops / Cabela's, Dick's Sporting Goods, Local sporting goods and bait shops, ODNR Division of Wildlife district offices
Buy By Phone
Call 800-945-3543. Service fee may apply
Shop for hunting gear at our partners:
The easiest way to buy your Ohio hunting license is online through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife. You'll get your license instantly and can start hunting right away.
Hunter Education Requirements in Ohio
Who Can Hunt for Free (or at a Discount) in Ohio?
Ohio Hunting Seasons 2026-2027
Key hunting season dates and weapon restrictions.
Ohio Bag Limits
Daily and seasonal harvest limits for major game species.
How Ohio Compares to Neighboring States
See how hunting license costs stack up in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ohio Hunting Licenses
How much is a hunting license in Ohio?
A resident adult hunting license in Ohio costs $19 for the 2025-2026 season. Non-residents pay $180.96. The Super Sportsman bundle ($49) is great value — it includes hunting, fishing, deer permit, turkey permit, and wetlands habitat stamp.
Do I need hunter education in Ohio?
Yes, all first-time hunters must complete an approved hunter education course. Ohio offers a free online course with a required hands-on field day. Youth under 15 are exempt when hunting with a licensed adult. The apprentice program lets any first-time hunter try hunting before completing education.
Can I buy an Ohio hunting license online?
Yes, purchase your Ohio hunting license online at wildohio.gov or through the HuntFish OH mobile app. Licenses are also available at Walmart, Dick's Sporting Goods, Bass Pro Shops, and ODNR district offices statewide.
How much is a non-resident deer permit in Ohio?
Non-resident deer permits cost $40 in Ohio, plus a $180.96 non-resident hunting license. Youth deer permits are just $15 regardless of residency. Ohio is popular with non-resident deer hunters due to its quality whitetail hunting.
Can I use a rifle for deer hunting in Ohio?
Ohio allows straight-wall cartridge rifles for deer during gun season (e.g., .350 Legend, .444 Marlin, .45-70). Traditional bottleneck rifle cartridges are NOT allowed. Shotguns, muzzleloaders, bows, and crossbows are also permitted.
Do I need a license to hunt on my own land in Ohio?
Ohio landowners are exempt from needing a hunting license on their own property. However, you still need a deer permit to harvest deer, even on private land. All bag limits and season dates still apply.
What is the minimum age to hunt in Ohio?
There is no minimum age to hunt in Ohio. Youth under 15 do not need a hunting license but must be accompanied by a licensed adult at all times.
How much is Ohio's 3-day non-resident hunting license?
The Non-Resident Tourist 3-Day hunting license costs $40.56 and is valid for 3 consecutive days. However, it is NOT valid for deer, turkey, or furbearer hunting — it covers small game and bird hunting only.