New Jersey Hunting License Guide
Complete guide to New Jersey hunting licenses — costs, seasons, and how to buy through NJ Fish and Wildlife.
New Jersey Hunting License Fees (2025-2026)
New Jersey offers surprisingly good hunting opportunities managed by the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife (NJDFW). The Garden State features Pine Barrens, mixed hardwood forests, and agricultural lands supporting white-tailed deer, wild turkey, waterfowl, and small game. Despite being the most densely populated state, New Jersey maintains over 350,000 acres of public hunting land. The state uses separate firearm ($27.50) and bow & arrow ($31.50) licenses for residents. Non-residents pay $135.50 for either type. Youth hunters ages 10-16 get free licenses. New Jersey's unique deer management system includes zone-specific antlerless permits. The All-Around Sportsman License ($72.25) combines firearm, bow, and fishing into one convenient package. Licenses are valid through December 31 of each year. Hunter education is mandatory for first-time buyers.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Firearm License (18-64) | $27.50 | — | Calendar year | |
| NR Firearm License (18+) | — | $135.50 | Calendar year | |
| Resident Bow & Arrow License (14-64) | $31.50 | — | Calendar year | |
| NR Bow & Arrow License (14+) | — | $135.50 | Calendar year | |
| Resident All-Around Sportsman | $72.25 | — | Calendar year | Firearm + bow + fishing |
| Resident Senior Firearm (65+) | $15.50 | — | Calendar year | |
| Resident Senior Bow (65+) | $16.50 | — | Calendar year | |
| NR 2-Day Small Game Firearm | — | $36.50 | 2 days | Not valid for deer/turkey |
| Antlerless Deer Permit | $28.00 | $28.00 | Season | Zone-specific |
| Multi-Zone Deer Permit | $56.00 | $56.00 | Season | |
| Rifle Permit | $17.00 | $17.00 | Season | Required for certain seasons |
Prices from New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife. Last verified: 2026-03-13. Always confirm current fees with the official state agency before purchase.
Hunter Education Requirements
Required for first-time buyers. Youth hunters (10-14) must be accompanied by licensed adult (21+).
How to Buy a New Jersey 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 New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife 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 New Jersey.
Need help? Call New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife at 609-292-2965
New Jersey Hunting Seasons (2025-2026)
| Species | Method | Start Date | End Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White-tailed Deer | Bow (Fall) | September 13 | October 31 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Six-Day Firearm | December 8 | December 13 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Permit Muzzleloader | December 15 | December 24 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Bow (Winter) | January 1 | February 15 | |
| Turkey | Spring | April 21 | May 24 | |
| Turkey | Fall | October 18 | October 31 | |
| Pheasant | General | November 8 | December 31 | |
| Duck | General | October 18 | January 31 |
Discounts & Exemptions
| Group | Benefit | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Senior | Reduced | Residents 65+ pay $15.50 (firearm) or $16.50 (bow) |
| Youth | Free | Youth ages 10-16 get free firearm and bow licenses |
| Disabled Veteran | Free | NJ disabled veterans may qualify for free license |
| Active Military | Resident rates | Active duty military stationed in New Jersey |
New Jersey Hunting Regulations Overview
Bag Limits
Check species-specific bag limits in the New Jersey 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 New Jersey specific requirements.
Shooting Hours
Hunting is generally permitted from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Check local variations.
Recommended Gear for New Jersey Hunting
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more
New Jersey Hunting License FAQ
How much does a hunting license cost in New Jersey?
A resident hunting license in New Jersey starts at $27.50. Non-resident licenses start at $135.50. Additional tags and endorsements may be required depending on the species you plan to hunt.
Do I need hunter education to hunt in New Jersey?
Yes, New Jersey requires hunter education for first-time buyers. Required for first-time buyers. Youth hunters (10-14) must be accompanied by licensed adult (21+). The state accepts hunter education certificates from other states.
Can non-residents hunt in New Jersey?
Yes, non-residents can purchase a New Jersey hunting license. The non-resident general hunting license costs $135.50. Some special tags or units may have limited non-resident allocations.
What is the deer season in New Jersey?
Bow (Fall): September 13 – October 31. Six-Day Firearm: December 8 – December 13. Permit Muzzleloader: December 15 – December 24. Bow (Winter): January 1 – February 15
Are there free hunting licenses in New Jersey?
Yes, New Jersey offers free or reduced-cost licenses for: youth (Youth ages 10-16 get free firearm and bow licenses); disabled-veteran (NJ disabled veterans may qualify for free license).
Can I buy a New Jersey hunting license online?
Yes, you can purchase a New Jersey hunting license online through the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife website at https://www.nj.gov/dep/fgw/licenseinfo.htm. Licenses may also be available at authorized retail locations.