How to Get a Hunting License in Colorado

Obtaining a hunting license in Colorado is a straightforward process designed to ensure that hunters comply with state regulations and promote responsible wildlife management. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, understanding the requirements and steps involved is essential before heading out into Colorado’s diverse hunting grounds. This guide will walk you through who needs a license, the types available, how to get one, where to buy it, associated costs, and additional permits you might require.

Who Needs a Hunting License in Colorado

In Colorado, anyone who wishes to hunt wildlife must generally possess a valid hunting license issued by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) agency. This requirement applies to both residents and non-residents, with specific distinctions based on residency status and age.

Residents of Colorado who are 16 years of age or older must have a hunting license to legally hunt. Youth under 16 years old are exempt from needing a license but must be accompanied by a licensed adult when hunting. Non-residents aged 16 and older also need a valid hunting license to hunt in the state.

Certain species-specific rules apply. For example, hunting big game such as elk, deer, or bear requires not only a general hunting license but also specific tags or permits for those species. Small game and waterfowl hunting also require appropriate licenses or stamps.

Exemptions exist for some individuals. Landowners or their immediate family members hunting on their own property may be exempt from licensing requirements under certain conditions. Additionally, active-duty military personnel stationed in Colorado may qualify for special provisions or discounts. For the most accurate and detailed information, consult the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife website at https://cpw.state.co.us.

Age Requirements

Hunters must be at least 16 years old to purchase a hunting license in Colorado. Youth under 16 can hunt without a license but must be supervised by a licensed adult. This ensures safety and compliance with state hunting laws.

Resident vs. Non-Resident Distinctions

Residents benefit from lower license fees and access to certain resident-only hunting opportunities. Non-residents must purchase non-resident licenses, which are priced higher and may have different application processes, especially for limited draw hunts.

Exemptions and Special Cases

Landowners hunting on their own property may be exempt from licensing requirements for certain species. Active-duty military personnel may receive discounts or exemptions. Always verify eligibility through the official CPW resources.

Types of Hunting Licenses Available in Colorado

Colorado offers a variety of hunting licenses tailored to different categories of hunters. These include resident, non-resident, youth, senior, and specialty licenses. Some licenses are available as combination packages that include both hunting and fishing privileges.

Resident licenses are available to individuals who meet Colorado residency requirements and offer access to most hunting opportunities at reduced fees. Non-resident licenses are for those who do not meet residency criteria and are priced accordingly.

Youth licenses are designed for hunters under 16 years old who wish to hunt independently or participate in youth hunting programs. Senior licenses provide discounted rates for residents aged 65 and older.

Specialty licenses include options such as big game tags, waterfowl stamps, and combination licenses that bundle hunting and fishing privileges for convenience and savings.

Resident

Resident hunting licenses are available to Colorado residents and provide access to a wide range of hunting opportunities. These licenses are typically less expensive than non-resident licenses and may include options for combination hunting and fishing licenses.

Non-Resident

Non-resident licenses are required for hunters who do not meet Colorado residency requirements. These licenses are generally more expensive and may have additional restrictions or application procedures, especially for limited draw hunts.

Youth

Youth hunting licenses are available for hunters under 16 years old who wish to hunt independently or participate in youth hunting programs. These licenses often come with educational requirements and may be offered at reduced fees or free in some cases.

How to get a Colorado hunting license

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

First, check your eligibility. Confirm your residency status and age to determine which license type applies to you. Next, complete the required hunter education course if you are a new hunter or were born after January 1, 1949. This course is mandatory for most new hunters and ensures you understand safe and ethical hunting practices.

Colorado offers hunter education courses through approved providers. You can take these courses online, in-person, or through hybrid formats. Recademics is one such provider offering online hunter education courses accepted by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Alternatively, you can find a list of approved courses on the official CPW website.

After completing hunter education, choose the appropriate license type based on your residency and hunting goals. Then, purchase your license through the official channels.

Step 1: Verify Eligibility

Determine your residency status and age. Residents and non-residents have different license options and fees. Ensure you meet the minimum age requirement of 16 years for purchasing a license.

Step 2: Complete Hunter Education

Most new hunters must complete a hunter education course. This can be done online, in-person, or via hybrid formats. The course covers safety, ethics, and wildlife conservation. Visit Colorado Hunter Education for approved courses.

Step 3: Choose Your License Type

Select the license that fits your residency status and hunting plans. Consider specialty licenses or combination packages if applicable.

Step 4: Purchase Your License

Buy your license through the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife license purchase portal or authorized vendors. Ensure you have all required identification and documentation ready.

Take a Colorado Parks & Wildlife-Approved Hunter Education Course >>

Where to Buy a Hunting License in Colorado

Colorado offers multiple convenient methods for purchasing hunting licenses, including online, in-person, by phone, and via mobile app. Each method provides secure access to official licenses and permits.

Online purchasing is the most popular and efficient method. The official Colorado Parks and Wildlife license purchase portal allows you to create an account, select your license type, pay securely, and receive a digital copy immediately. Digital licenses can be printed at home or displayed on a mobile device while hunting, both of which are valid in the field.

In-person purchases are available at numerous retail locations such as sporting goods stores, CPW offices, and authorized vendors throughout the state. When buying in person, you will need to present valid identification and payment. Accepted payment methods typically include credit/debit cards and cash, but it is advisable to check with the vendor beforehand.

Online

Visit the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife license purchase portal at https://www.cpwshop.com/licensing.page. Create an account or log in, select your desired license, complete payment, and download or print your license immediately. Mobile versions are accepted in the field.

In-Person

Licenses can be purchased at CPW offices, authorized retailers, and sporting goods stores across Colorado. Bring valid photo identification and payment. Locations include Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s, and local outdoor retailers. Check the CPW website for a full list of vendors.

Costs and Fees for Colorado Hunting Licenses

License fees in Colorado vary based on residency status, license type, and additional permits required. Residents generally pay lower fees than non-residents. Below are typical costs as published by Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

Resident annual hunting licenses typically range from approximately $30 to $50, depending on the package and species. Non-resident licenses are more expensive, often ranging from $100 to $400 or more, especially for big game hunting.

Additional fees apply for specific tags or permits such as elk, deer, or bear tags. These can range from $20 to several hundred dollars depending on the species and whether the tag is limited draw or over-the-counter.

Some licenses include combination packages that bundle hunting and fishing privileges at a discounted rate. Processing or convenience fees may apply for online purchases.

Resident License Fees

Annual resident hunting licenses typically cost between $30 and $50. Specialty tags and stamps are additional.

Non-Resident License Fees

Non-resident licenses range from $100 to over $400 depending on the species and type of hunt. Big game tags are priced separately and may require application through a draw system.

Additional Permit Fees

Tags for big game species such as elk, deer, and bear have separate fees. Waterfowl stamps and other specialty permits also carry additional costs.

Additional Permits or Tags You Might Need

In addition to a general hunting license, Colorado hunters must often purchase specific permits or tags for certain species. These include big game tags for elk, deer, bear, mountain lion, and bighorn sheep. Many of these tags are limited draw permits, requiring hunters to apply through a lottery system.

Waterfowl hunters must purchase a Colorado waterfowl stamp in addition to their hunting license. Small game hunters may need additional permits depending on the species.

Mandatory harvest reporting and tagging rules apply to many species. Hunters must tag their harvested game immediately and report their harvest to Colorado Parks and Wildlife within specified timeframes.

Big Game Tags

Required for hunting elk, deer, bear, mountain lion, and other big game. Many tags are limited and require application through the CPW draw system.

Waterfowl Stamps

Waterfowl hunters must purchase a Colorado waterfowl stamp in addition to their hunting license.

Harvest Reporting and Tagging

Hunters must tag harvested game immediately and report harvests online or by phone as required by CPW regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No, in most cases, a valid hunting license is required to hunt on private land in Colorado unless you are the landowner or an immediate family member hunting on your own property under specific exemptions. Always verify your eligibility and licensing requirements with Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

Do I need a license for small game?

Yes, a valid hunting license is required to hunt small game in Colorado. Some species may require additional permits or stamps. Youth under 16 may hunt small game without a license if accompanied by a licensed adult.

When does hunting season start in Colorado?

Hunting seasons vary by species and location. Generally, small game seasons begin in late summer or early fall, while big game seasons occur in the fall and winter months. Consult the official Colorado hunting regulations for specific season dates.

Does Colorado offer apprentice or mentored hunting licenses?

Yes, Colorado offers apprentice hunting licenses that allow new hunters to hunt under the supervision of a licensed mentor without completing hunter education first. These licenses are designed to introduce new hunters to the sport safely.

Can I purchase a hunting license online and hunt immediately?

Yes, once you purchase a hunting license online through the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife portal, you receive a digital license that is valid immediately. You can print it or display it on your mobile device while hunting.

Resources and Official Links

Official Colorado Parks and Wildlife Homepage

• https://cpw.state.co.us

License Purchase Portal

• https://www.cpwshop.com/licensing.page

Hunter Education Information

• https://cpw.state.co.us/learn/Pages/HunterEducation.aspx
• https://recademics.com (Approved online hunter education provider)

Hunting Regulations Guide

• 2023-2024 Colorado Hunting Regulations PDF