Kentucky Hunting License Guide
Complete guide to Kentucky hunting licenses — costs, seasons, and how to apply through KDFWR.
Kentucky Hunting License Fees (2025-2026)
Kentucky is a top-tier hunting state in the mid-South, managed by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR). The Bluegrass State offers exceptional white-tailed deer, wild turkey, elk (limited draw in eastern Kentucky), and small game hunting across rolling hills, hardwood forests, and agricultural landscapes. Kentucky's hunting license year runs from March 1 through the last day of February. The state's Sportsman's License ($100.42) is an excellent value, bundling hunting, fishing, deer and turkey permits, migratory bird stamp, and trout permit. Kentucky made headlines for establishing one of the most successful elk restoration programs east of the Mississippi River. Non-resident licenses cost $169.12 for the base annual hunting license, with separate deer ($235) and turkey permits required. All first-time license buyers must complete hunter education. Kentucky adjusts license fees every two years based on the Consumer Price Index.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Annual Hunting | $28.54 | — | 1 year | |
| NR Annual Hunting | — | $169.12 | 1 year | |
| Resident Sportsman's License | $100.42 | — | 1 year | Hunting + fishing + deer/turkey/migratory bird/trout permits |
| First-time Buyer Sportsman's | $35.00 | — | 1 year | Residents who haven't bought since 1996 |
| Resident Youth Hunting (12-15) | $6.34 | — | 1 year | |
| NR Youth Hunting (12-15) | — | $10.57 | 1 year | |
| NR Deer Permit | — | $235.00 | Season | |
| NR Spring Turkey Permit | — | $110.00 | Season | |
| NR Fall Turkey Permit | — | $110.00 | Season | |
| NR 1-Day Hunting (small game) | — | $26.43 | 1 day | |
| NR 7-Day Hunting (small game) | — | $68.71 | 7 days | |
| Senior Sportsman's (65+) | $12.68 | — | 1 year |
Prices from Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. Last verified: 2026-03-13. Always confirm current fees with the official state agency before purchase.
Hunter Education Requirements
Required for all first-time license buyers. Online course available.
How to Buy a Kentucky 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 Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources 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 Kentucky.
Need help? Call Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources at 800-858-1549
Kentucky Hunting Seasons (2025-2026)
| Species | Method | Start Date | End Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White-tailed Deer | Archery | September 6 | January 19 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Modern Gun | November 8 | November 23 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Muzzleloader | October 18 | October 26 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Late Modern Gun | December 13 | December 31 | |
| Turkey | Spring | April 12 | May 4 | |
| Turkey | Fall | October 18 | December 7 | |
| Elk | Draw Only | September 13 | December 7 | Limited draw in eastern Kentucky counties |
| Dove | General | September 1 | November 1 | |
| Duck | General | November 22 | January 26 |
Discounts & Exemptions
| Group | Benefit | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Senior | Reduced ($12.68) | Kentucky residents aged 65 and older — Senior Sportsman's License |
| Youth | Reduced ($6.34) | Youth ages 12-15; under 12 exempt when supervised |
| Disabled Veteran | Free | Totally disabled Kentucky veterans |
| Active Military | Resident rates | Active duty military stationed in Kentucky |
| Landowner | Exempt on own land | Resident landowners hunting on their own property |
Kentucky Hunting Regulations Overview
Bag Limits
Check species-specific bag limits in the Kentucky 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 Kentucky specific requirements.
Shooting Hours
Hunting is generally permitted from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Check local variations.
Recommended Gear for Kentucky Hunting
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Kentucky Hunting License FAQ
How much does a hunting license cost in Kentucky?
A resident hunting license in Kentucky starts at $28.54. Non-resident licenses start at $169.12. Additional tags and endorsements may be required depending on the species you plan to hunt.
Do I need hunter education to hunt in Kentucky?
Yes, Kentucky requires hunter education for first-time buyers. Required for all first-time license buyers. Online course available. The state accepts hunter education certificates from other states.
Can non-residents hunt in Kentucky?
Yes, non-residents can purchase a Kentucky hunting license. The non-resident general hunting license costs $169.12. Some special tags or units may have limited non-resident allocations.
What is the deer season in Kentucky?
Archery: September 6 – January 19. Modern Gun: November 8 – November 23. Muzzleloader: October 18 – October 26. Late Modern Gun: December 13 – December 31
Are there free hunting licenses in Kentucky?
Yes, Kentucky offers free or reduced-cost licenses for: disabled-veteran (Totally disabled Kentucky veterans).
Can I buy a Kentucky hunting license online?
Yes, you can purchase a Kentucky hunting license online through the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources website at https://app.fw.ky.gov/license/. Licenses may also be available at authorized retail locations.