Alaska Hunting License Guide
Complete guide to Alaska hunting licenses — costs, seasons, and how to buy through ADF&G.
Alaska Hunting License Fees (2025-2026)
Alaska is the ultimate hunting destination, managed by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G). The Last Frontier offers unparalleled big game hunting including brown/grizzly bear, Dall sheep, moose, caribou, mountain goat, black bear, and Sitka blacktail deer across its vast wilderness. Alaska's resident hunting license costs $45, with the hunt/fish combo at $60. Non-residents pay $160 for hunting alone. However, non-residents must purchase expensive big game locking-tags: $1,000 for brown/grizzly bear, $850 for Dall sheep, $800 for mountain goat, and $700 for moose. Non-resident military stationed in Alaska get resident rates ($45 hunting). Alaska residents 60+ get free permanent identification cards for hunting and fishing. The state's immense size and remote terrain make guided hunts common for non-residents.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Hunting License | $45.00 | — | 1 year | |
| Resident Hunt/Fish Combo | $60.00 | — | 1 year | |
| Resident Hunt/Fish/Trap Combo | $85.00 | — | 1 year | |
| NR Hunting License | — | $160.00 | 1 year | |
| NR Hunt/Fish Combo | — | $260.00 | 1 year | |
| NR Small Game Only | — | $60.00 | 1 year | |
| NR Brown/Grizzly Bear Tag | — | $1000.00 | Season | |
| NR Dall Sheep Tag | — | $850.00 | Season | |
| NR Mountain Goat Tag | — | $800.00 | Season | |
| NR Moose Tag | — | $700.00 | Season | |
| NR Caribou Tag | — | $650.00 | Season | |
| NR Military Hunting | — | $45.00 | 1 year | Active duty stationed in AK |
| Resident Low Income | $5.00 | — | 1 year |
Prices from Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Last verified: 2026-03-13. Always confirm current fees with the official state agency before purchase.
Hunter Education Requirements
Required for first-time license buyers. Alaska accepts certificates from other states.
How to Buy a Alaska Hunting License
- 1
Complete Hunter Education
If required, complete a state-approved hunter education course before purchasing your license.
- 2
Gather Required Documents
Have your government-issued photo ID, Social Security Number, and proof of residency (if applicable) ready.
- 3
Visit the Official Portal
Go to Alaska Department of Fish and Game or an authorized retail agent (Walmart, sporting goods stores).
- 4
Select License Type & Pay
Choose the appropriate license type for your needs, add any required endorsements or tags, and complete payment.
- 5
Print or Save Your License
Print your license or save a digital copy. You must carry your valid license while hunting in Alaska.
Need help? Call Alaska Department of Fish and Game at 907-465-2376
Alaska Hunting Seasons (2025-2026)
| Species | Method | Start Date | End Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moose | General | September 1 | September 20 | Varies by unit |
| Caribou | General | August 10 | September 30 | Varies by herd |
| Brown/Grizzly Bear | Fall | September 1 | October 31 | |
| Brown/Grizzly Bear | Spring | April 15 | May 31 | |
| Dall Sheep | General | August 10 | September 20 | |
| Black Bear | General | September 1 | June 30 | |
| Sitka Blacktail Deer | General | August 1 | December 31 | |
| Duck | General | September 1 | January 20 |
Discounts & Exemptions
| Group | Benefit | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Senior | Free | Alaska residents 60+ — free permanent ID card for hunting and fishing |
| Youth | Reduced | Youth licenses at reduced rates |
| Disabled Veteran | Reduced | Disabled veterans may qualify for reduced fees |
| Active Military | Resident rates ($45) | NR active duty military permanently stationed in Alaska |
Alaska Hunting Regulations Overview
Bag Limits
Check species-specific bag limits in the Alaska official regulations. Limits vary by species, management unit, and season.
Legal Methods
Approved hunting methods include firearm, archery, and muzzleloader. Specific rules apply to each method.
Safety Requirements
Blaze orange/pink clothing may be required during firearms seasons. Check Alaska specific requirements.
Shooting Hours
Hunting is generally permitted from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Check local variations.
Recommended Gear for Alaska Hunting
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Alaska Hunting License FAQ
How much does a hunting license cost in Alaska?
A resident hunting license in Alaska starts at $45.00. Non-resident licenses start at $160.00. Additional tags and endorsements may be required depending on the species you plan to hunt.
Do I need hunter education to hunt in Alaska?
Yes, Alaska requires hunter education for first-time buyers. Required for first-time license buyers. Alaska accepts certificates from other states. The state accepts hunter education certificates from other states.
Can non-residents hunt in Alaska?
Yes, non-residents can purchase a Alaska hunting license. The non-resident general hunting license costs $160.00. Some special tags or units may have limited non-resident allocations.
What is the deer season in Alaska?
General: August 1 – December 31
Are there free hunting licenses in Alaska?
Yes, Alaska offers free or reduced-cost licenses for: senior (Alaska residents 60+ — free permanent ID card for hunting and fishing).
Can I buy a Alaska hunting license online?
Yes, you can purchase a Alaska hunting license online through the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website at https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=license.main. Licenses may also be available at authorized retail locations.