How to Get a Hunting License in Illinois

Obtaining a hunting license in Illinois 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 is essential before heading out into the field. 

Who Needs a Hunting License in Illinois

In general, anyone who hunts in Illinois must have a valid hunting license.

Residents under 18 purchase the Youth Hunting & Trapping License. They must hunt under close supervision by a licensed adult age 21+ unless they hold a hunter-education certification.

Nonresidents need a nonresident license.

Certain exemptions exist for landowners and active-duty military personnel. Consult the official Illinois Department of Natural Resources website to verify current regulations and exemptions before hunting. https://dnr.illinois.gov/.

Types of Hunting Licenses Available in Illinois

Illinois offers a variety of hunting licenses tailored to different categories of hunters, including residents, non-residents, youth, and seniors. Understanding the options available will help you select the appropriate license for your hunting activities.

Resident Licenses

These licenses are available to Illinois residents and cover a broad range of hunting activities. Residents can purchase annual licenses that allow hunting of multiple species, including big game, small game, and migratory birds. There are also specialty licenses for specific game or combined packages that include fishing privileges.

Non-Resident Licenses

Non-residents must purchase a separate hunting license to hunt in Illinois. These licenses are typically more expensive than resident licenses and may be available as annual or short-term options. Non-resident licenses cover most game species but may have restrictions or additional permit requirements for certain hunts.

Youth Licenses

Youth hunters under the age of 16 are generally exempt from purchasing a license but must comply with supervision rules. However, youth hunters aged 16 and 17 may be required to obtain a youth hunting license, which is offered at a reduced cost compared to adult licenses. These licenses encourage young hunters to participate in hunting while ensuring they meet safety and education requirements.

Additionally, Illinois offers senior licenses for residents aged 65 and older, which provide discounted rates. Specialty licenses and combination packages that include both hunting and fishing privileges are also available, providing flexibility for hunters who engage in multiple outdoor activities.

How to get a Illinois hunting license

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

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Confirm that you meet the residency and age requirements for the type of license you intend to purchase. Residents and non-residents have different license options, and youth hunters may have specific rules.

Step 2: Complete Hunter Education

If you were born on or after Jan 1, 1980, you must show a prior-year hunting license or a hunter-education certificate to buy a standard license. Illinois also offers Apprentice and Youth licenses that allow hunting without hunter ed when supervision rules are met.

Take an Illinois DNR‑Approved Hunter Education Course >>

You can find and register for hunter education courses through the official Illinois DNR website.

Step 3: Choose Your License Type

Select the appropriate license based on your residency status, age, and the species you plan to hunt. Consider whether you need additional permits or combination licenses that include fishing privileges.

Step 4: Purchase the License

Once you have completed hunter education (if required) and selected your license type, you can proceed to purchase your hunting license through official channels. Ensure you have any necessary identification or documentation ready for the purchase.

Applicants must meet all legal and educational requirements before a license is issued. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in penalties or denial of the license.

Where to Buy a Hunting License in Illinois

Illinois provides multiple convenient options for purchasing hunting licenses, catering to different preferences and needs.

Online

The most popular and efficient method to buy a hunting license in Illinois is through the official Illinois Department of Natural Resources online portal. This platform allows you to create an account, select the appropriate license, pay fees securely, and receive a digital copy of your license immediately.

Digital licenses purchased online are valid in the field and can be accessed via mobile devices or printed at home. The online system accepts various payment methods, including credit and debit cards.

To purchase your license online, visit the official portal at https://www.illinois.gov/services/service.fishing-hunting-application.html.

In-Person

If you prefer to buy your hunting license in person, Illinois offers several options. Licenses can be purchased at authorized retail locations such as sporting goods stores, bait shops, and some government offices including county clerk offices.

When purchasing in person, you will need to provide valid identification and any required documentation such as proof of hunter education completion. Payment methods may be limited to cash, check, or credit/debit cards depending on the location.

It is advisable to check with the specific retailer or office beforehand to confirm accepted payment types and required paperwork.

Costs and Fees for Illinois Hunting Licenses

Illinois hunting license fees vary depending on residency status, license type, and any additional permits or tags required. Below is an overview of current pricing for standard licenses and common additional fees:

Resident Hunting Licenses

Annual resident hunting licenses typically cost around $17.50. Senior residents (65 years and older) may qualify for discounted rates, often around $5.00.

Non-Resident Hunting Licenses

Non-resident annual hunting licenses are generally priced higher, approximately $75.00. Short-term or temporary licenses may be available at different rates.

Youth Licenses

Youth hunters aged 16 and 17 can purchase youth hunting licenses at reduced fees, often around $5.00 to $10.00.

Additional Permits and Tags

Certain species require extra permits or tags, such as deer permits, waterfowl stamps, or turkey tags. These fees vary but typically range from $5.00 to $25.00 per permit.

Processing or convenience fees may apply for online purchases, usually a few dollars per transaction. It is important to review the fee schedule on the official Illinois Department of Natural Resources website for the most current and detailed pricing information.

Additional Permits or Tags You Might Need

In addition to a general hunting license, Illinois hunters may need to purchase specific permits, stamps, or tags depending on the species they intend to hunt. These additional requirements help regulate harvest levels and support conservation efforts.

Deer Permits

Hunters pursuing deer must obtain a deer permit in addition to their hunting license. These permits are often limited in number and may be distributed through a lottery or draw system for certain zones or seasons.

Waterfowl Stamps

Age 16+ need the Federal Duck Stamp; age 18+ need the Illinois State Migratory Waterfowl Stamp (some exemptions). All migratory-bird hunters must complete HIP each year.

Turkey Tags

Turkey hunting requires a specific turkey permit or tag, which may be limited and subject to application deadlines.

Illinois mandates mandatory harvest reporting and tagging for certain species. Hunters must follow all tagging and reporting rules to remain compliant with state regulations.

For detailed information on required permits, application deadlines, and reporting procedures, consult the Illinois Department of Natural Resources official hunting regulations guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No, in Illinois, a valid hunting license is generally required to hunt on any land, including private property, unless you qualify for a specific exemption such as being the landowner hunting on your own land. Always verify current regulations before hunting.

Do I need a license for small game?

A valid hunting license is required for small game. Under 18 are not exempt—they use the Youth Hunting & Trapping License (with supervision unless hunter-ed certified).

When does hunting season start in Illinois?

Hunting seasons vary by species and zone. For example, deer archery season typically begins in early October, while firearm seasons start later in the fall. Consult the official Illinois hunting regulations for exact dates each year.

Does Illinois offer apprentice or mentored hunting licenses?

Yes, Illinois 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 limited and intended to introduce beginners to hunting safely.

Can I purchase a hunting license online and hunt immediately?

Yes, once you complete the purchase through the official Illinois Department of Natural Resources online portal, your digital license is valid immediately and can be used in the field.

Resources and Official Links

• Illinois Department of Natural Resources Hunting Homepage
• Official Illinois Hunting License Purchase Portal
• Illinois Hunter Education Course Information
• Illinois Hunting Regulations PDF