Michigan Hunting License Guide
Complete guide to Michigan hunting licenses — a top deer hunting state with new 2025-2026 fee structure.
Michigan Hunting License Fees (2025-2026)
Michigan is one of America's premier hunting states, with a deep tradition of deer hunting in the Great Lakes region. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages hunting licenses, which underwent significant fee restructuring for the 2025-2026 season. Michigan offers a unique Complete License package that bundles base hunting, deer, turkey, waterfowl, pheasant, and fur harvester licenses. The state's diverse landscape spans two peninsulas, offering everything from white-tailed deer in the Lower Peninsula's farmland to black bear in the Upper Peninsula's vast forests. Michigan uses a combination of over-the-counter and draw-based licensing, with elk and bear requiring applications. A $5 surcharge is applied to most licenses to fund Hunters Feeding Michigan and the Michigan Wildlife Council. Seniors (65+) receive a 60% discount on base, deer, turkey, and fur harvester licenses.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Base License | $15.00 | — | 1 year | |
| Non-Resident Base License | — | $200.00 | 1 year | |
| Resident Deer License | $25.00 | — | Season | |
| Non-Resident Deer License | — | $150.00 | Season | |
| Resident Deer Combo (2 tags) | $50.00 | — | Season | |
| Non-Resident Deer Combo (2 tags) | — | $225.00 | Season | |
| Antlerless Deer License | $5.00 | $5.00 | Season | |
| Bear Participation | $30.00 | $30.00 | Season | Draw required |
| Turkey | $18.00 | $18.00 | Season | |
| Elk | $125.00 | $125.00 | Season | Draw required, very limited tags |
| Waterfowl | $18.00 | $18.00 | Season | |
| Mentored Hunting | $10.00 | $10.00 | 1 year | |
| Resident Complete License | $150.00 | — | 1 year | Includes base, 2 deer, antlerless, fishing, turkey, waterfowl, pheasant, fur harvester |
| Non-Resident Complete License | — | $450.00 | 1 year | |
| Resident Hunt/Fish Combo | $100.00 | — | 1 year | |
| Non-Resident Hunt/Fish Combo | — | $355.00 | 1 year |
Prices from Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Last verified: 2026-03-13. Always confirm current fees with the official state agency before purchase.
Hunter Education Requirements
Required for first-time buyers
How to Buy a Michigan 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 Michigan Department of Natural 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 Michigan.
Need help? Call Michigan Department of Natural Resources at 517-284-9453
Michigan Hunting Seasons (2025-2026)
| Species | Method | Start Date | End Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White-tailed Deer | Archery | October 1 | November 14 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Regular Firearms | November 15 | November 30 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Muzzleloader | December 6 | December 21 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Late Archery | December 1 | January 1 | |
| Turkey | Spring | April 19 | June 7 | |
| Turkey | Fall | September 15 | November 14 | |
| Black Bear | General | September 12 | October 26 | Draw required, mostly Upper Peninsula |
| Small Game | General | September 1 | March 31 |
Discounts & Exemptions
| Group | Benefit | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Youth | 60% discount + $5 surcharge waived | Age 16 and younger |
| Senior | 60% discount on base/deer/turkey/fur + $5 surcharge waived | Michigan resident aged 65 or older |
| Disabled Veteran | Free base license | Michigan resident with 100% VA disability |
| Active Military | Resident rates | Active duty with Michigan as home of record |
Michigan Hunting Regulations Overview
Bag Limits
Check species-specific bag limits in the Michigan 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 Michigan specific requirements.
Shooting Hours
Hunting is generally permitted from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Check local variations.
Recommended Gear for Michigan Hunting
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Michigan Hunting License FAQ
How much does a hunting license cost in Michigan?
A resident hunting license in Michigan starts at $15.00. 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 Michigan?
Yes, Michigan requires hunter education for first-time buyers. Required for first-time buyers The state accepts hunter education certificates from other states.
Can non-residents hunt in Michigan?
Yes, non-residents can purchase a Michigan 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 Michigan?
Archery: October 1 – November 14. Regular Firearms: November 15 – November 30. Muzzleloader: December 6 – December 21. Late Archery: December 1 – January 1
Are there free hunting licenses in Michigan?
Yes, Michigan offers free or reduced-cost licenses for: disabled-veteran (Michigan resident with 100% VA disability).
Can I buy a Michigan hunting license online?
Yes, you can purchase a Michigan hunting license online through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website at https://mdnr-elicense.com/. Licenses may also be available at authorized retail locations.