Texas is one of the best places for young hunters to learn and explore the outdoors. From deer and turkeys to ducks and feral hogs, there’s no shortage of Texas game to hunt. But before any young person grabs their gear, they need the right paperwork in place, starting with a Texas Youth Hunting License.
Anyone under 17 years old who wishes to hunt in Texas must have a Youth Hunting License. In this guide, we’ll break down the cost, explain how to get one, and share how Las Huellas helps young Texans with free hunter education.
Key Takeaways
- All hunters under 17 years of age must have a Texas Youth Hunting License to hunt legally.
- The youth license costs $7 and is required for both residents and non-residents.
- Most youth hunters aged nine and up must complete a hunter education course.
- Las Huellas offers a free annual hunter education course for young Texans.
How to Get a Texas Youth Hunting License
Whether your child wants to hunt migratory waterfowl, stalk wild turkeys, or trap small game, they must comply with hunting rules and requirements. Getting a Texas Youth Hunting License is the first step for any young hunter. This license is required for children under 17 years old who wish to hunt game. This requirement helps youth hunters learn safe hunting and follow the law while out in nature.
To qualify for a youth license, you can either be a Texas resident or a non-resident under 17. You can apply online, by phone, or at a store that sells hunting licenses, typically sports goods and hunting goods stores. Every young hunter must carry a valid license and meet the state’s hunter education rules before hunting.
How Much Does a Youth Hunting License Cost?
The Youth Hunting License in Texas costs $7. It’s one of the lowest prices among all Texas hunting licenses. You don’t need any state hunting endorsement requirements with this license, which makes it easier for families to get started. You can visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website to check license types and local requirements.
What Licenses Do Non-Residents Need?
Non-resident youth hunters visiting Texas can purchase the same Youth Hunting License as Texas residents, with the same exemptions applying to these children. Keep in mind that adult hunters in the field with young hunters will still need to comply with regulations on adult hunting, such as the requirement for an non-resident licenses and endorsement requirements including the Federal Duck Stamp and Migratory Waterfowl Endorsement. You can learn more about how to get a non-resident hunting license in our handy guide.
What Other Hunting Permits and Endorsements Might a Young Hunter Need?
While a Texas Youth Hunting License is the first step, some young hunters may need extra permits to follow the rules. Specifically, children may be required to get a Reptile and Amphibian Endorsement. This is needed if you’re hunting snakes, frogs, or other reptiles on public land.
Keep in mind that children under 17 are exempt from needing other types of endorsements in Texas, they don’t need fishing licenses, and they are also ineligible for a lifetime license. Youth hunters are still subject to hunting regulations on bag limits and hunting seasons.
Is Hunter Education Training Required for Youth Hunters?
Yes, most youth hunters in Texas must complete the required hunter education before they can legally hunt. This is an important rule made by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to keep hunters safe and teach them the right way to hunt.
If your child is under nine years old, they are not yet required to take a hunter education course. But once they turn nine, they’ll need to complete a course before going out with a Texas hunting license. The course teaches hunting safety, wildlife laws, and how to care for the land.
Here at Las Huellas, we’re proud to sponsor youth hunting in the Rio Grande Valley through our free annual Hunter Education course.
Support Las Huellas in Preparing the Next Generation of Safe and Responsible Texas Hunters
Hunting teaches young Texans more than just skills. It builds respect for wildlife, land, and tradition. With their Texas youth hunting license and training, young hunters can enjoy the outdoors while staying safe and legal.
Whether you need a resident, non-resident, lifetime, or senior resident hunting license, we’re here to help. Las Huellas proudly supports the next generation of hunters through Texas wildlife conservation and education. Start strong, hunt smart, and let the adventure begin.