From open fields to hills, Texas has lots of great places to hunt wildlife. However, these areas must be carefully managed to preserve their natural beauty and ecological health. A key part of that management is licensing regulation for hunting and fishing.
In addition to standard hunting licenses, the state also offers special licenses, such as the free Texas Resident Active Duty Military License, Senior Resident Hunting License, and the Out-of-State License.
If you live in another state but want to hunt legally in Texas, you need a Texas hunting license. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about obtaining a Texas out-of-state hunting license.
Key Takeaways
- Out-of-state hunters must purchase a Texas hunting license, with the options being based on the type of game and the duration of stay.
- Required documents include a valid ID, possible endorsements, and hunter education for hunters born after 1971.
- Not everyone needs a license—youth hunters, landowner-authorized hog hunters, and certain program participants may be exempt.
- Always check with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) to stay updated on the latest license rules and requirements.
How Much Does a Texas Out-of-State Hunting License Cost?
If you’re not a Texas resident, you must pay for a non-resident hunting license. Here’s a breakdown of how much the primary Texas out-of-state hunting license costs:
- Non-Resident General Hunting License – Priced at $315, this license permits hunting any legal bird or animal, including deer. It’s the only valid license for non-residents who want to hunt white-tailed deer, mule deer, pronghorn, or bighorn sheep in Texas.
- Non-Resident Spring Turkey License—This license, available for $126, is valid exclusively during the spring turkey season. It’s unlawful to possess both this and the General Hunting License simultaneously.
- Non-Resident Special Hunting License— At $132, this license covers hunting exotic animals, all legal game birds (excluding turkey), non-game animals, fur-bearing animals, squirrels, javelina, and alligators. It’s not valid for hunting white-tailed or mule deer, pronghorn, or bighorn sheep.
- Non-Resident 5-Day Special Hunting License—This $48 license is valid for five consecutive days and covers the same species as the Special Hunting License. It is for those planning a short trip.
- Non-Resident Banded Bird Hunting License – Priced at $27, this license is specific to hunting banded bobwhite quail, partridge, pheasant, and mallard ducks on private bird hunting areas.
Depending on the species and hunting methods, additional endorsements may be required. For instance, hunting migratory waterfowl necessitates a $7 Migratory Game Bird Endorsement and a Federal Duck Stamp. You should also check about requirements for fishing licenses. You can learn more on the Wildlife Department website.
What Is Required to Get a Hunting License for Non-Residents?
Before you pack your gear and go on your out-of-state hunt, here’s what you need to get started:
- Pick your license type based on what and when you’re hunting.
- Buy your license online or from an approved license retailer, such as a sporting goods store.
- Bring a valid ID, like a driver’s license, from your home state.
- Add required endorsements, depending on the species.
- Complete a Hunter education course if born on or after September 2, 1971.
- Before you go for a hunt, you’ll also need to check valid hunting dates.
Who Is Not Required to Get an Out-of-State Hunting License for Texas?
Although most out-of-state hunters need a license, some don’t. Before you make your license purchase, make sure you’re not exempt. Here’s who is exempt:
- Youth Under 17 Years Old – Non-residents under 17 can purchase a Youth Hunting License for $7, which exempts them from state hunting endorsement requirements, except for the Reptile and Amphibian Endorsement.
- Feral Hog or Depredating Coyote Hunters on Private Property – No hunting license is required if you have landowner authorization to hunt feral hogs or depredating coyotes on private land. These property owners will need special hunting lease licenses.
- Participants in Certain Educational or Management Programs – Individuals involved in TPWD-sanctioned educational programs, management demonstrations, or other scheduled activities where TPWD has waived the permit requirement are exempt.
- Non-hunting Assistants for Disabled Permit Holders– Adults assisting a permit holder with a disability, without engaging in hunting or fishing themselves, do not require a license.
- Private Property Owners Crossing Public Hunting Lands– Owners or operators utilizing designated roads to cross public hunting lands directly to or from their property are exempt.
- Those With a Commercial Trapper’s License – Seasoned hunters with a Commercial Trapper’s License are exempt from license requirements when hunting certain fur-bearing animals.
You may also be exempt from the license requirement in certain situations, such as when a wild animal is attacking a human or domestic animal.
Promote Responsible Hunting With Las Huellas
Hunting in Texas is about respecting the natural world and preserving the state’s diverse ecosystems. Ready to hit the field? Make sure you’re properly licensed and help maintain the balance of Texas’s wildlife for years to come.
If you live outside the Lone Star State, don’t forget to get your Texas out-of-state hunting license!