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.

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. However, there are exceptions.

License Requirements for Feral Hog Hunting in Texas

Feral hogs are classified as unprotected, non-native species in Texas. That means there is no closed season, no bag limit, and no restrictions on methods of take—including night hunting, the use of suppressors, or aerial hunting—as long as you’re following local and federal laws.

When a Hunting License Is Required

• Public Land: If you’re hunting feral hogs on any public lands managed by the state, you must carry a valid Texas hunting license.

• Private Land with Landowner Permission: If you hunt on private property with the landowner’s explicit consent, no hunting license is required, regardless of whether you are a resident or non-resident.

Why Hog Hunting License Treatment Changed

In 2019, state law removed the hunting license requirement for feral hog control on private land. The change was made to help landowners and hunters reduce the damage caused by the rapidly growing hog population. Hunting on public land remains regulated, including license and education requirements.

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

Resources & Helpful Links

• Texas Hunting Licenses – TPWD

• Texas Hunter Education Course – TPWD-Approved

• Annual Public Hunting Permit & Map Booklet – TPWD