Pennsylvania Hunting License Guide
Complete guide to Pennsylvania hunting licenses — one of America's top deer hunting states with affordable fees.
Pennsylvania Hunting License Fees (2025-2026)
Pennsylvania is one of the most popular hunting states in the eastern United States, with nearly one million hunters taking to the field each year. Managed by the Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC), the state offers some of the most affordable hunting licenses in the country. Pennsylvania is particularly renowned for its white-tailed deer hunting, with generous seasons spanning archery, rifle, and muzzleloader. Licenses are valid from July 1 through June 30 of the following year. The state uses an over-the-counter licensing system for most species, with antlerless deer licenses allocated through a WMU-based system. Pennsylvania offers a Mentored Youth Hunting Permit for just $2.97, making it one of the most accessible states for introducing young hunters to the sport. Hunter education is required for first-time buyers, and the state offers both online and in-person courses through certified instructors.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Adult Hunting | $20.97 | — | 1 year | |
| Non-Resident Adult Hunting | — | $101.97 | 1 year | |
| Resident Junior Hunting (12-16) | $6.97 | — | 1 year | |
| Non-Resident Junior Hunting (12-16) | — | $41.97 | 1 year | |
| Resident Senior (65+) | $13.97 | — | 1 year | |
| Mentored Youth Permit | $2.97 | $2.97 | 1 year | Includes tags, for youth under 12 with adult mentor |
| Antlerless Deer License | $6.97 | $26.97 | Season | |
| Archery License | $16.97 | $26.97 | Season | |
| Muzzleloader License | $11.97 | $21.97 | Season | |
| Migratory Game Bird License | $3.97 | $6.97 | Season | |
| NR 7-Day Small Game | — | $31.97 | 7 days | |
| Resident Junior Combo | $9.97 | — | 1 year | Includes archery, muzzleloader, and furtaker |
| Non-Resident Junior Combo | — | $51.97 | 1 year | Includes archery, muzzleloader, and furtaker |
| Senior Lifetime Hunting | $51.97 | — | Lifetime |
Prices from Pennsylvania Game Commission. Last verified: 2026-03-13. Always confirm current fees with the official state agency before purchase.
Hunter Education Requirements
How to Buy a Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania Game Commission 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 Pennsylvania.
Need help? Call Pennsylvania Game Commission at 717-787-4250
Pennsylvania Hunting Seasons (2025-2026)
| Species | Method | Start Date | End Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White-tailed Deer | Archery | September 20 | November 15 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Regular Firearms | November 29 | December 13 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Muzzleloader | December 26 | January 10 | |
| White-tailed Deer | Extended Archery | December 26 | January 24 | |
| Turkey | Spring (gobbler) | April 26 | May 31 | |
| Turkey | Fall | November 1 | November 22 | |
| Small Game | General | October 18 | February 28 | |
| Squirrel | General | September 13 | November 22 |
Discounts & Exemptions
| Group | Benefit | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Youth | Reduced ($6.97 junior, $2.97 mentored) | Junior license ages 12-16; Mentored permit under 12 |
| Senior | Reduced ($13.97) or Lifetime ($51.97) | Pennsylvania resident aged 65 or older |
| Disabled Veteran | Free | PA resident with service-connected disability rated 60%+ by VA |
| Active Military | Resident rates | Active duty stationed in Pennsylvania |
Pennsylvania Hunting Regulations Overview
Bag Limits
Check species-specific bag limits in the Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania specific requirements.
Shooting Hours
Hunting is generally permitted from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Check local variations.
Recommended Gear for Pennsylvania Hunting
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Pennsylvania Hunting License FAQ
How much does a hunting license cost in Pennsylvania?
A resident hunting license in Pennsylvania starts at $20.97. Non-resident licenses start at $101.97. Additional tags and endorsements may be required depending on the species you plan to hunt.
Do I need hunter education to hunt in Pennsylvania?
Yes, Pennsylvania requires hunter education for first-time buyers. The state accepts hunter education certificates from other states.
Can non-residents hunt in Pennsylvania?
Yes, non-residents can purchase a Pennsylvania hunting license. The non-resident general hunting license costs $101.97. Some special tags or units may have limited non-resident allocations.
What is the deer season in Pennsylvania?
Archery: September 20 – November 15. Regular Firearms: November 29 – December 13. Muzzleloader: December 26 – January 10. Extended Archery: December 26 – January 24
Are there free hunting licenses in Pennsylvania?
Yes, Pennsylvania offers free or reduced-cost licenses for: disabled-veteran (PA resident with service-connected disability rated 60%+ by VA).
Can I buy a Pennsylvania hunting license online?
Yes, you can purchase a Pennsylvania hunting license online through the Pennsylvania Game Commission website at https://huntfish.pa.gov. Licenses may also be available at authorized retail locations.