Louisiana Hunting License Guide
Complete guide to Louisiana hunting licenses — costs, seasons, and how to buy through LDWF.
Louisiana Hunting License Fees (2025-2026)
Louisiana is a legendary hunting destination, managed by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF). The Sportsman's Paradise lives up to its nickname, offering world-class waterfowl hunting in the Mississippi Flyway, excellent white-tailed deer hunting, and outstanding opportunities for turkey, rabbit, and alligator. The state's unique bayou country, bottomland hardwood forests, and coastal marshes create some of the most diverse waterfowl habitat in North America. Hunting licenses are valid from July 1 through June 30 of the following year. Louisiana has a modular licensing system — the Basic Hunting License ($20) is the entry point, with separate add-on licenses for deer ($15), waterfowl ($12), and turkey ($12). The Sportsman's Paradise License ($100) bundles everything together. Residents aged 60+ born before June 1, 1940 hunt for free, while the senior license is just $5. Non-residents pay $200 for the basic hunting license with additional species-specific fees. Hunter education is not universally required if born before September 1, 1969.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Basic Hunting | $20.00 | — | 1 year | |
| NR Basic Hunting | — | $200.00 | 1 year | |
| Resident Deer License | $15.00 | — | 1 year | Includes archery and primitive weapon |
| NR Deer License | — | $100.00 | 1 year | |
| Resident Turkey License | $12.00 | — | 1 year | |
| NR Turkey License | — | $50.00 | 1 year | |
| Resident Waterfowl License | $12.00 | — | 1 year | |
| NR Waterfowl License | — | $50.00 | 1 year | |
| Resident Sportsman's Paradise | $100.00 | — | 1 year | All hunting + fishing privileges |
| NR Sportsman's Paradise | — | $400.00 | 1 year | |
| NR 5-Day Basic Hunting | — | $65.00 | 5 days | |
| Youth Hunting (17 and under) | $5.00 | $5.00 | 1 year | |
| WMA Access Annual Permit | $20.00 | $20.00 | 1 year | |
| Federal Duck Stamp | $29.79 | $29.79 | 1 year |
Prices from Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. 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 September 1, 1969
How to Buy a Louisiana 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 Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries 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 Louisiana.
Need help? Call Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries at 225-765-2887
Louisiana Hunting Seasons (2025-2026)
| Species | Method | Start Date | End Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White-tailed Deer | Archery | September 6 | January 31 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Firearms | November 8 | February 1 | Dates vary by area |
| White-tailed Deer | Primitive Firearms | October 18 | November 7 | |
| Turkey | Spring | March 22 | April 20 | Dates vary by area |
| Duck | General | November 8 | January 25 | Split season |
| Dove | General | September 6 | January 15 | |
| Rabbit | General | October 4 | February 28 | |
| Alligator | Lottery | August 27 | October 5 | Lottery tag required |
Discounts & Exemptions
| Group | Benefit | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Senior | Free or $5 | Born before June 1, 1940: free. Born June 1940–May 1962: $5 Senior Hunt/Fish License |
| Youth | Reduced ($5) | Youth hunters aged 17 and under |
| Disabled Veteran | Free | Veterans with 50%+ service-connected disability |
| Active Military | Resident rates | Active duty military stationed in Louisiana |
| Landowner | Exempt on own land | Resident landowners hunting on their own property of 40+ acres |
Louisiana Hunting Regulations Overview
Bag Limits
Check species-specific bag limits in the Louisiana 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 Louisiana specific requirements.
Shooting Hours
Hunting is generally permitted from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Check local variations.
Recommended Gear for Louisiana Hunting
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Louisiana Hunting License FAQ
How much does a hunting license cost in Louisiana?
A resident hunting license in Louisiana starts at $20.00. Non-resident licenses start at $200.00. Additional tags and endorsements may be required depending on the species you plan to hunt.
Do I need hunter education to hunt in Louisiana?
Yes, Louisiana requires hunter education for first-time buyers. Required for anyone born on or after September 1, 1969 The state accepts hunter education certificates from other states.
Can non-residents hunt in Louisiana?
Yes, non-residents can purchase a Louisiana hunting license. The non-resident general hunting license costs $200.00. Some special tags or units may have limited non-resident allocations.
What is the deer season in Louisiana?
Archery: September 6 – January 31. Firearms: November 8 – February 1. Primitive Firearms: October 18 – November 7
Are there free hunting licenses in Louisiana?
Yes, Louisiana offers free or reduced-cost licenses for: senior (Born before June 1, 1940: free. Born June 1940–May 1962: $5 Senior Hunt/Fish License); disabled-veteran (Veterans with 50%+ service-connected disability).
Can I buy a Louisiana hunting license online?
Yes, you can purchase a Louisiana hunting license online through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website at https://louisianaoutdoors.com/. Licenses may also be available at authorized retail locations.