How to Get a Hunting License in Delaware

Obtaining a hunting license in Delaware is a straightforward process designed to ensure that hunters comply with state regulations and promote safe, responsible hunting practices. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, understanding the requirements and steps involved will help you enjoy Delaware’s diverse hunting opportunities legally and ethically. 

Who Needs a Hunting License in Delaware

In Delaware:

• Ages 16–64 need a hunting license.
• Ages 13–15 must buy a Junior Hunting License.
• Under 13 are license-exempt but must obtain a free License Exempt Number (LEN) and hunt under direct supervision by an adult 21+ who is licensed or has lawful hunting rights.
• Resident 65+ are license-exempt with proof of age/residency.

Consult the official Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife website for the most current and detailed information on licensing requirements and exemptions: Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife.

Types of Hunting Licenses Available in Delaware

Delaware offers several types of hunting licenses tailored to different categories of hunters. These include licenses for residents, non-residents, youth, seniors, and specialty licenses for certain game or combined activities.

The Resident Hunting License is available to Delaware residents and allows hunting of most game species during the appropriate seasons. This license is often offered in combination with fishing licenses, providing a cost-effective option for those interested in multiple outdoor activities.

The Non-Resident Hunting License is required for hunters who do not reside in Delaware but wish to hunt within the state. These licenses are typically more expensive than resident licenses and may have different validity periods or restrictions.

Delaware’s Junior Hunting License is for ages 13–15 (resident or nonresident). Hunters under 13 do not buy a license; they obtain a LEN and hunt under supervision.

Additional specialty licenses and permits may be available for seniors, disabled hunters, or for hunting specific species such as waterfowl or big game. Combination licenses that include both hunting and fishing privileges are also offered to provide convenience and savings.

How to get a Delaware hunting license

Obtaining a hunting license in Delaware involves several clear steps to ensure compliance with state laws and promote safe hunting practices. Below is a step-by-step overview of the process:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Confirm that you meet the age and residency requirements for the type of license you wish to obtain. Residents and non-residents have different licensing options and fees.

Step 2: Complete Hunter Education

Anyone born after Jan 1, 1967 must complete Basic Hunter Education before obtaining a Delaware hunting license (junior or adult). This course covers essential safety, ethics, and wildlife conservation topics. 

Take a Delaware DNREC-Approved Hunter Education Course >>

Step 3: Choose Your License Type

Decide which license best fits your hunting plans—resident, non-resident, youth, or specialty. Consider whether you want a combination license that includes fishing privileges.

Step 4: Purchase Your License

Licenses can be purchased online, in person, or by phone through the official Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife license portal. You will need to provide identification and proof of hunter education completion if applicable. After purchase, licenses can be printed at home or accessed digitally on a mobile device, both of which are valid in the field.

Where to Buy a Hunting License in Delaware

Delaware offers multiple convenient options for purchasing hunting licenses to accommodate different preferences and needs.

Online

The most popular and efficient method is through the official Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife online license portal. Creating an account is straightforward: you provide personal information, verify residency status, and upload any required documentation such as hunter education certificates. Payment can be made securely via credit or debit card. Once purchased, licenses are available immediately as digital copies that can be printed at home or displayed on a mobile device. Both formats are legally valid for hunting in Delaware.

Access the official license purchase portal here: Delaware Hunting License Purchase Portal.

In-Person

Licenses can also be purchased in person at authorized retail outlets and government offices throughout Delaware. Common locations include sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and Division of Fish and Wildlife offices. When buying in person, you will need to bring valid identification and proof of hunter education completion if required. Payment methods may be limited to cash, check, or credit/debit cards depending on the vendor.

In-person purchases provide the advantage of immediate physical license issuance and the opportunity to ask questions directly to staff. However, availability may vary by location and season.

Costs and Fees for Delaware Hunting Licenses

Delaware’s hunting license fees vary based on residency status, age, and license type. Below are the current standard fees as published by the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife.

Additional fees apply for special permits such as big game tags, waterfowl stamps, or migratory bird permits. Convenience fees may be charged for online purchases. It is important to check the official Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife website for the most up-to-date fee schedule.

Additional Permits or Tags You Might Need

In addition to a basic hunting license, Delaware hunters may be required to purchase specific permits or tags depending on the species they intend to hunt.

Deer Tags

Your license (or LEN) includes a Deer Harvest Report Card with antlerless tags; you may add Hunter’s Choice and Quality Buck tags (NR: antlered/quality buck tags sold separately). Register deer within 24 hours, and attach a carcass tag if the deer leaves your immediate possession.

Waterfowl Stamps

Most waterfowl hunters need the Delaware Waterfowl (duck) Stamp and the Federal Duck Stamp (16+), plus a HIP number each season for all migratory game birds.

Turkey Permits

All turkey hunters 13+ need a DE hunting license and must pass the DNREC Turkey Hunting Course. Public lands (state/federal) use a spring turkey permit lottery; private-land turkey hunts do not use that lottery. Register turkeys within 24 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I hunt on private land without a license in Delaware?

No, a valid hunting license is generally required to hunt on any land in Delaware, including private property, unless you qualify for a specific exemption such as being the landowner or immediate family member hunting on their own land. Always verify your eligibility before hunting.

Do I need a license for small game?

Yes, a hunting license is required to hunt small game species such as rabbits, squirrels, and upland birds in Delaware. The license covers most game species unless specifically exempted by law.

When does hunting season start in Delaware?

Hunting seasons vary by species and zone. For example, deer seasons typically begin in the fall, while waterfowl seasons may start earlier in the year. It is essential to consult the official Delaware hunting regulations for exact dates each year.

Can I purchase a hunting license online and hunt immediately?

Yes, once you purchase a hunting license online through the official portal, you can print it at home or use a digital copy on your mobile device. Both are valid for hunting immediately after purchase, provided all other requirements are met.

Resources and Official Links

• Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife Homepage
• Delaware Hunting License Purchase Portal
• Delaware Hunter Education Information
• Delaware Hunting Regulations and Guides (PDF and Interactive)