Kansas Hunting License Guide
Complete guide to Kansas hunting licenses — costs, seasons, and how to buy through KDWP.
Kansas Hunting License Fees (2025-2026)
Kansas is a premier hunting state managed by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP). The Sunflower State is nationally renowned for trophy white-tailed deer, world-class pheasant and quail hunting, and excellent waterfowl opportunities along the Central Flyway. Kansas features vast native grasslands, agricultural fields, and river corridors that support diverse wildlife. A resident hunting license costs $27.50, and youth under 16 do not need a hunting license. Residents 75 and older are exempt from license requirements. Non-resident deer permits are allocated through a competitive draw system, with whitetail deer tags costing $477.50. Kansas has become one of the most sought-after non-resident deer hunting destinations in America. Hunter education is required for anyone born on or after July 1, 1957.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Adult Hunting | $27.50 | — | Calendar year | |
| NR Adult Hunting | — | $127.50 | Calendar year | |
| Resident Senior (65-74) | $15.00 | — | 1 year | |
| NR Youth Hunting (under 16) | — | $42.50 | Calendar year | |
| NR Whitetail Deer Permit (16+) | — | $477.50 | Season | Includes $27.50 non-refundable application fee |
| NR Youth Whitetail Deer (under 16) | — | $117.50 | Season | |
| NR Turkey Permit | — | $75.00 | Season | |
| Resident Youth Hunting (16-20) | $42.50 | — | Multi-year | Valid until age 21 |
Prices from Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. Last verified: 2026-03-13. Always confirm current fees with the official state agency before purchase.
Hunter Education Requirements
Required for anyone born on or after July 1, 1957
How to Buy a Kansas 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 Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks 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 Kansas.
Need help? Call Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks at 620-672-5911
Kansas Hunting Seasons (2025-2026)
| Species | Method | Start Date | End Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White-tailed Deer | Archery | September 15 | December 31 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Firearms (Rifle) | November 26 | December 7 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Muzzleloader | September 15 | September 28 | |
| Turkey | Spring | April 1 | May 31 | |
| Turkey | Fall | October 1 | January 31 | |
| Pheasant | General | November 8 | January 31 | |
| Quail | General | November 8 | January 31 | |
| Duck | General | October 11 | January 5 |
Discounts & Exemptions
| Group | Benefit | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Senior | Free (75+) or Reduced (65-74) | Residents 75+ exempt; 65-74 pay $15 |
| Youth | Free (under 16 resident) | Kansas residents under 16 do not need a hunting license |
| Disabled Veteran | Free | Kansas disabled veterans |
| Active Military | Resident rates | Active duty military stationed in Kansas |
| Landowner | Exempt on own land | Resident landowners hunting on their own property |
Kansas Hunting Regulations Overview
Bag Limits
Check species-specific bag limits in the Kansas 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 Kansas specific requirements.
Shooting Hours
Hunting is generally permitted from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Check local variations.
Recommended Gear for Kansas Hunting
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more
Kansas Hunting License FAQ
How much does a hunting license cost in Kansas?
A resident hunting license in Kansas starts at $27.50. Non-resident licenses start at $127.50. Additional tags and endorsements may be required depending on the species you plan to hunt.
Do I need hunter education to hunt in Kansas?
Yes, Kansas requires hunter education for first-time buyers. Required for anyone born on or after July 1, 1957 The state accepts hunter education certificates from other states.
Can non-residents hunt in Kansas?
Yes, non-residents can purchase a Kansas hunting license. The non-resident general hunting license costs $127.50. Some special tags or units may have limited non-resident allocations.
What is the deer season in Kansas?
Archery: September 15 – December 31. Firearms (Rifle): November 26 – December 7. Muzzleloader: September 15 – September 28
Are there free hunting licenses in Kansas?
Yes, Kansas offers free or reduced-cost licenses for: senior (Residents 75+ exempt; 65-74 pay $15); youth (Kansas residents under 16 do not need a hunting license); disabled-veteran (Kansas disabled veterans).
Can I buy a Kansas hunting license online?
Yes, you can purchase a Kansas hunting license online through the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks website at https://ksoutdoors.com/License-Permits. Licenses may also be available at authorized retail locations.