What License Do I Need to Hunt Hogs in Texas?

Feral hogs are one of the most hunted species in Texas — and for good reason. These invasive animals cause extensive damage to land, crops, and native wildlife. Texas encourages hog hunting year-round as a means of population control. But even though hogs are considered nuisance animals, there are still licensing rules you need to follow.

Here’s what you need to know before heading out on your next hog hunt.

Do You Need a License to Hunt Hogs in Texas?

In most situations, yes — you need a valid Texas hunting license to hunt feral hogs.

There are exceptions. You do not need a hunting license if:

• You are hunting on your own land, or

• You are an agent of a landowner controlling feral hogs for property protection (not for recreation or sport)

However, for nearly all recreational hog hunting — whether you’re a resident or non-resident, and whether you’re using a rifle, bow, or hunting with dogs — a hunting license is required.

Types of Hunting Licenses for Hog Hunting

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) offers several hunting license options. Here are the most common ones used by hog hunters:

• Resident Hunting License – Required for Texas residents hunting on land other than their own.

• Non-resident General Hunting License – Required for out-of-state hunters planning an extended trip.

• Non-resident 5-Day Special Hunting License – A lower-cost option for short visits.

• Youth Hunting License – For hunters under the age of 17 (resident or non-resident).

All licenses are available through the TPWD website, at licensed retailers, and at TPWD offices.

Public Land Requirements

If you plan to hunt hogs on public land, there are additional requirements.

You must have:

• A valid Texas Hunting License, and

• An Annual Public Hunting Permit (APH)

The APH gives you access to over one million acres of land open for public hunting in Texas. You can find eligible locations and regulations in the Public Hunting Lands Map Booklet published annually by TPWD.

Hunter Education Requirements

Texas law requires hunter education for anyone born on or after September 2, 1971. This rule applies whether you are hunting hogs or any other species.

Here are the options:

• Complete a TPWD-approved Hunter Education Course (online or in person)

• Minimum age to complete the course is 9 years old

• Carry proof of certification while hunting

If you’re not yet certified, you can obtain a Deferred Hunter Education Option, which allows you to hunt for one license year under the condition that you are accompanied by a licensed adult hunter who has completed the course.

Additional Rules for Hog Hunting

Texas offers flexibility in hog hunting, but some key rules still apply:

• No bag limit and no closed season

• Night hunting is allowed with the landowner’s permission

• You may use suppressors, thermal scopes, and night vision

• There are no restrictions on caliber, but ethical hunting practices are expected

• Written or verbal landowner permission is always required when hunting private land

Non-Resident Hog Hunters

Non-residents must follow the same licensing and hunter education requirements as residents. If you’re hunting on public land, you must also purchase the APH permit.

Summary Checklist

Before your next hog hunt, make sure you:

• Have permission to hunt the land

• Know whether you’re on public or private property

• Hold the appropriate hunting license

• Have completed hunter education (if required)

• Understand the rules regarding nighttime hunting and equipment

Resources & Helpful Links

• Texas Hunting Licenses – TPWD

• Texas Hunter Education Course – TPWD-Approved

• Annual Public Hunting Permit & Map Booklet – TPWD