How to Get a Hunting License in North Carolina

Obtaining a hunting license in North Carolina is a straightforward process governed by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, understanding the requirements and steps involved is essential to ensure compliance with state laws and to enjoy hunting safely and legally. 

Who Needs a Hunting License in North Carolina

In North Carolina, anyone who wishes to hunt wildlife must have a valid hunting license unless they fall under specific exemptions. The state distinguishes between residents and non-residents, with different licensing requirements and fees for each group.

Hunters aged 16 and older generally need a license to hunt. Youth under the age of 16 are not required to have a hunting license. If the youth has Hunter Education, they may hunt without an adult (must carry the certificate). If not, they must be accompanied by a licensed adult.

There are some limited exemptions such as for landowners or active-duty military personnel. Consult the official North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission website for detailed information: North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.

Types of Hunting Licenses Available in North Carolina

North Carolina structures licenses by residency (resident vs. nonresident), scope of privileges (basic “state hunting” vs. “comprehensive” or combo bundles), and duration (short-term, annual, lifetime). Youth under 16 are license-exempt but must follow supervision/education rules; some adult/senior, disability, and lifetime options provide discounts or bundled privileges. 

Resident licenses (hunting only)

• State Hunting (annual or short-term): Covers hunting (including game lands access) for small game; does not include Big Game, the NC Waterfowl Privilege, or the Federal Duck Stamp. Add privileges as needed.

• Comprehensive Hunting (resident): Adds Big Game and waterfowl hunting privileges (state waterfowl privilege included). Bear requires the separate Bear Management E-Stamp. A license with the Big Game privilege also comes with a Big Game Harvest Report Card (deer/turkey tags). 

Nonresident licenses

• Nonresidents can buy State Hunting (small game) and add Nonresident Big Game for deer/turkey. Bear hunting additionally requires a Nonresident Bear Hunting License and the Bear Management E-Stamp. 

Combination bundles (resident)

• Sportsman (Hunting + Inland Fishing) and Unified Sportsman (adds Coastal Recreational Fishing) bundle hunting (including Big Game, game lands, state waterfowl privilege) with fishing. Neither bundle includes the Federal Duck Stamp (and bear still needs the Bear E-Stamp). Lifetime versions exist; lifetime Sportsman/Comprehensive include the state waterfowl privilege.

Youth, senior, lifetime, and special categories

• Youth (<16): No license required. Youth with Hunter Education may hunt without an adult (carry the card); youth without Hunter Ed must be accompanied by a properly licensed adult. License-exempt youth hunting deer/turkey/bear must obtain a License-Exempt Big Game Harvest Report Card (and a Bear E-Stamp for bear).

• Senior & Lifetime: NC offers lifetime licenses (including Senior Lifetime—age eligibility depends on birth year), with Sportsman/Comprehensive variants that include state waterfowl privilege.

• Military/Disability: Reduced-cost or special versions (e.g., Disabled Veteran, Totally Disabled) are available; check current eligibility on NCWRC.

Important add-ons (not separate “licenses” but often required)

• Big Game Privilege (deer, turkey) + Big Game Harvest Report Card (tags) for anyone hunting big game.

• Bear Management E-Stamp (residents) and, for nonresidents, the Nonresident Bear Hunting License as well.

• Waterfowl: NC Waterfowl Privilege + HIP each year, plus the Federal Duck Stamp (16+). Some bundles already include the state waterfowl privilege; the federal stamp is always separate.

How to get a North Carolina hunting license

The process is accessible both online and in person, with options to suit new and experienced hunters alike.

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Confirm your residency status and age to determine which license type applies to you. Verify any exemptions that may apply, such as for landowners or active-duty military personnel.

Step 2: Complete Hunter Education

All first-time hunters and hunters under 16 must complete a hunter safety course to purchase a North Carolina Hunting License.

North Carolina recognizes hunter education courses offered through the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.

Find a North Carolina WRC‑Approved Hunter Education Course >>

Hunter education courses are available in multiple formats, including online, in-person, and hybrid options. 

Step 3: Choose Your License Type

Based on your eligibility and hunting plans, select the appropriate license type. Consider whether you need additional permits or combination licenses.

Step 4: Purchase Your License

Licenses can be purchased through the official North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission portal or authorized vendors. Ensure you have all necessary identification and documentation ready.

Following these steps guarantees compliance with North Carolina hunting laws and promotes responsible hunting practices.

Where to Buy a Hunting License in North Carolina

Hunters in North Carolina have multiple convenient options for purchasing their hunting licenses, including online and in-person methods.

Online

The official North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission website provides a secure portal for purchasing hunting licenses. Creating an account is straightforward and allows users to buy, renew, and manage licenses digitally. 

Official North Carolina Hunting License Purchase Portal

In-Person

Licenses can be purchased at authorized retail locations such as sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and government offices including Wildlife Resources Commission offices. When buying in person, hunters should bring valid identification and any required documentation such as hunter education certificates. Payment methods may vary by location but typically include cash, credit, or debit cards.

Both online and in-person purchases require the buyer to provide personal information to verify eligibility and residency status. The digital license system allows for easy access and verification by wildlife officers during hunting activities.

Costs and Fees for North Carolina Hunting Licenses

North Carolina sets specific fees for hunting licenses that vary based on residency status, license type, and additional permits required.

Resident Hunting License

The standard resident hunting license fee is modest, designed to encourage local participation in hunting activities. Residents may also purchase combination licenses that include fishing privileges at a bundled rate.

Non-Resident Hunting License

Non-residents pay higher fees reflecting their out-of-state status. These fees vary depending on the species targeted and the duration of the license.

Other Licenses

Senior residents aged 65 and older may qualify for discounted licenses.

Additional fees apply for special permits such as big game tags (e.g., deer, bear), migratory waterfowl stamps, and turkey permits. Some of these permits are limited draw and require separate application processes, while others are available over the counter.

Processing or convenience fees may be added for online purchases or third-party vendors. It is advisable to consult the official North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission website for the most current fee schedule and detailed pricing information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I hunt on private land without a license in North Carolina?

No, in most cases, a hunting license is required to hunt on private land in North Carolina unless you are the landowner or have written permission from the landowner and meet specific exemption criteria. Always verify current regulations before hunting.

Do I need a license for small game?

Yes, a valid hunting license is required to hunt small game species in North Carolina, including squirrels, rabbits, and game birds, unless you qualify for an exemption such as being under 16 years old and accompanied by a licensed adult.

When does hunting season start in North Carolina?

Hunting seasons vary by species and region within North Carolina. For example, deer seasons typically begin in the fall, while turkey seasons occur in spring and fall. It is essential to consult the official hunting regulations for exact dates each year.

Does North Carolina offer apprentice or mentored hunting licenses?

Yes, North Carolina offers an apprentice hunting license that allows new hunters to hunt under the supervision of a licensed mentor without completing hunter education first. This license is intended to introduce beginners to hunting safely and responsibly. The program is named the N.C. Hunting Heritage Apprentice.

Is hunter education mandatory for all hunters in North Carolina?

Hunter education is mandatory for most new hunters born after January 1, 1969, or those under 16 years old. Completing an approved hunter education course is required before purchasing a hunting license unless the hunter qualifies for an exemption.

Resources and Official Links

• North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission Homepage
• Official Hunting License Purchase Portal
• Hunter Education Information
• North Carolina Hunting Regulations Guide