How to Get a Washington Hunting License
Getting a Washington hunting license requires more than simply purchasing a license and heading into the field. Depending on your age, birth date, residency, and target species, you may also need hunter education, species-specific licenses, tags, or permits.
Washington requires hunter education for people born after January 1, 1972, before they can hunt, although specific exemptions and deferral options apply. Once you meet the education requirement, you can purchase the appropriate hunting license through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and add the tags or permits required for the species you plan to hunt.
Washington’s license year runs from April 1 through March 31. Here’s a step-by-step look at how to get a Washington hunting license, what it costs, and what requirements you need to meet before hunting.
What Is a Hunting License in Washington?
A Washington hunting license is the basic authorization required to legally hunt wildlife in the state. For many hunters, the Small Game License serves as the starting point, while deer, elk, bear, cougar, and other big game require additional species-specific licenses or packages.
Your hunting license is separate from your hunter education certificate. Hunter education demonstrates that you have completed the required safety training, while the hunting license gives you legal authorization to hunt during the applicable license year.
A hunter education certificate generally does not expire once earned. Your hunting license, however, must be renewed according to Washington’s license-year requirements.
Who Needs a Hunting License in Washington?
Anyone who hunts wildlife in Washington generally needs the appropriate hunting license. The exact license depends on what you plan to hunt and whether you are a Washington resident or non-resident.
Hunter education is a separate requirement based primarily on your birth date. People born after January 1, 1972, generally must show proof of hunter education before purchasing their first hunting license.
Some exceptions and alternative pathways apply, including certain military personnel, law enforcement officers, and hunters participating in Washington’s Hunter Education Deferral Program.
If you’re unsure whether an exemption applies to you, check the current WDFW requirements before purchasing your license.
How to Get a Washington Hunting License: Step-by-Step
Getting a Washington hunting license is relatively straightforward once you know which requirements apply to you.
- Complete an approved hunter education course if you were born after January 1, 1972 and don’t qualify for an exemption or deferral.
- Choose the appropriate license based on your residency and the species you plan to hunt.
- Purchase your license through WDFW’s licensing system or an authorized license dealer.
- Buy the required tags and permits for deer, elk, turkey, migratory birds, or other species when applicable.
- Apply for special hunt permits if you’re pursuing a limited-entry hunt.
- Carry your license and required documentation while hunting.
Washington’s special hunt permit applications open during designated periods, so hunters interested in limited-entry deer, elk, moose, or other hunts should plan ahead.
Step 1: Complete an Approved Hunter Education Course
If Washington’s hunter education requirement applies to you, you’ll need to complete an approved course before purchasing your first hunting license.
The requirements vary depending on your age when you register.
Washington Hunter Education Options
Hunters 18 and older at registration:
Eligible hunters can complete the approved online course and final exam without an additional field skills evaluation.
Hunters younger than 18 at registration:
Young hunters must complete the online portion and then attend the required in-person Field Skills Evaluation Course.
Qualifying military members and law enforcement officers:
Certain individuals may qualify for an exemption from the field skills requirement after completing the required exam and submitting the appropriate documentation to WDFW.
The Hunter-Ed Washington course is an approved option for completing the online hunter education requirement.
Step 2: Choose Your Washington Hunting License
Once you’ve satisfied the hunter education requirement, determine which license you need.
Washington offers different licenses for residents and non-residents, along with youth, senior, combination, and specialized options.
Some hunters only need a small game license, while others need a big game license or a package that combines several privileges.
Common Washington Hunting License Costs
| License | Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Small Game License | $55.13 | $252.47 |
| Youth Small Game License | $24.77 | $24.77 |
| Deer License | $61.70 | $599.07 |
| Senior Small Game License | $20.06 | — |
| Senior Deer License | $22.63 | — |
| Get Outdoors Package | $330.54 | — |
License prices can change, and additional fees may apply. Always verify current prices with WDFW before purchasing.
Step 3: Buy Your Hunting License
You can purchase your Washington hunting license through the WDFW licensing system, by phone, or from an authorized license dealer.
You may need:
- Government-issued identification
- Your Social Security number if required
- Proof of hunter education, if applicable
- Proof of residency for resident pricing
- Payment for your license and any additional tags or permits
Your license should be purchased before you begin hunting and should remain with you while you’re in the field.
Step 4: Add the Required Tags and Permits
A basic Washington hunting license doesn’t automatically authorize you to harvest every species.
For example, deer, elk, bear, and cougar require the appropriate big game license. Turkey hunters need a turkey tag, while migratory bird hunters may need additional state authorization.
Limited-entry hunts can also require a special hunt permit obtained through WDFW’s application and drawing process.
Always check the regulations for the specific species and Game Management Unit where you intend to hunt.
Washington Hunting License Requirements by Age
Your age can affect the type of license you need, as well as the hunter education requirements that apply to you.
| Age | Typical License | Hunter Education |
|---|---|---|
| Under 16 | Youth Small Game License | Required if born after January 1, 1972 |
| 16–69 | Standard hunting license or applicable species license | Required if born after January 1, 1972 |
| 70+ resident | Reduced-fee license | Generally exempt based on birth-date requirement |
| Qualifying disabled hunter | Reduced-fee license may apply | Depends on birth date and applicable exemption |
| Qualifying non-resident disabled veteran | May qualify for resident-rate licensing | Depends on applicable requirements |
Youth and senior requirements can differ by license type, so check current WDFW regulations before buying.
Washington Hunting Tags and Permits
Washington uses species-specific licenses, tags, and permits to regulate hunting opportunities.
Deer
Deer hunters need the appropriate deer license and tag. Some deer opportunities are available through general seasons, while others require special hunt permits.
Elk
Elk hunting requires an elk license and the applicable tag. Certain high-demand hunts are allocated through special permit drawings.
Turkey
Turkey hunters need the appropriate turkey tag in addition to the required hunting license.
Bear and Cougar
Bear and cougar hunting require the applicable species license and must follow current season, area, and harvest regulations.
Migratory Birds
Hunters pursuing migratory birds may need a Small Game License along with additional migratory bird authorization and permit requirements.
Because Washington’s requirements vary by species and hunting area, check the current regulations before purchasing tags or planning a hunt.
Washington Hunter Safety Course: Format and Cost
Washington’s hunter education system allows many adults to complete their certification online without attending an additional in-person course.
| Course Path | Provider | Cost | In-Person Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online course, 18+ at registration | Hunter-Ed | $24.95 | No |
| Online course + Field Skills Evaluation, under 18 | Hunter-Ed | $24.95 | Yes |
| Qualifying military/law enforcement exemption | Varies | Varies | May be waived |
The online course is self-paced and covers firearm safety, hunting ethics, wildlife conservation, and Washington-specific hunting regulations.
Hunters under 18 who are required to complete the Field Skills Evaluation should reserve a session early because completing the online portion does not guarantee an immediate evaluation appointment.
Documents You Need to Buy a Washington Hunting License
Before purchasing your license, have the necessary documentation ready.
Depending on your circumstances, you may need:
- A valid government-issued photo ID
- Your Social Security number
- Proof of Washington residency
- Proof of hunter education certification
- Military or veteran documentation if claiming an exemption
- Payment for your license, tags, and permits
Having these documents available can make the licensing process much easier.
When Does the Washington Hunting License Year Start?
Washington’s license year runs from April 1 through March 31.
That means your hunting credentials generally need to be renewed for the new license year rather than simply following a January-to-December calendar.
Season dates themselves vary by species and location. A hunting license does not automatically mean you can hunt a particular species year-round.
Before heading into the field, check the current WDFW regulations for:
- Open season dates
- Bag limits
- Hunting areas
- Weapon restrictions
- Tag requirements
- Special permit requirements
- Harvest reporting rules
Washington Hunting Laws and Penalties
Hunting without the appropriate license, tag, or permit can result in serious consequences.
Washington distinguishes between different wildlife violations, and penalties can include fines, jail time, license suspension, and forfeiture of equipment in certain cases.
Illegal big game hunting can carry substantially more serious penalties than some small game violations. Wildlife violations can also result in additional financial penalties based on the species involved.
The safest approach is to confirm that you have the correct license, tag, and permit before hunting and to follow the season and harvest rules for your specific hunting area.
Does Washington Accept Hunter Education From Other States?
Yes. Washington generally recognizes hunter education certificates issued by other U.S. states, Canadian provinces, and countries that meet applicable International Hunter Education Association standards.
That can make things easier for hunters who have already completed an approved hunter education course elsewhere.
However, recognition of hunter education does not automatically give you a Washington hunting license. You’ll still need to satisfy Washington’s licensing and species-specific requirements.
What Out-of-State Hunters Should Know
Non-resident hunting in Washington can be significantly more expensive than hunting as a resident.
For example, a non-resident Small Game License costs substantially more than the resident equivalent, while non-resident deer licenses are also considerably more expensive.
Non-residents should also research special permit drawings, license deadlines, season dates, and area restrictions well before traveling to Washington.
If you’re planning a guided or multi-day hunt, factor the cost of the license and tags into your overall hunting budget.
Start Your Washington Hunter Safety Course Today
Getting a Washington hunting license starts with understanding which requirements apply to you. If you’re subject to the hunter education requirement, completing an approved course is an important first step before purchasing your license.
The Hunter-Ed Washington course provides self-paced online instruction for eligible hunters, while those who need the Field Skills Evaluation must complete that additional requirement before certification.
Once you’re certified, choose the appropriate Washington hunting license, purchase any required tags or permits, and check the current regulations for your species and hunting area.
Complete your hunter safety course, get your Washington hunting license, and make sure you’re ready before opening day.
Approved by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) | Last verified August 14, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a hunting license to hunt in Washington?
Yes. Anyone hunting wildlife in Washington generally needs the appropriate hunting license. Big game such as deer, elk, bear, and cougar also requires the applicable species license and tags or permits.
How much does a Washington hunting license cost?
A Washington resident Small Game License costs $55.13, while the non-resident equivalent costs $252.47. Big game licenses cost more; for example, a deer license is listed at $61.70 for residents and $599.07 for non-residents.
Who needs hunter education in Washington?
People born after January 1, 1972, generally need to complete approved hunter education before obtaining their first hunting license, subject to applicable exemptions and deferral options.
Can I take Washington’s hunter safety course entirely online?
Yes, eligible hunters who are 18 or older when they register can complete the hunter education course online without a field skills evaluation. Hunters younger than 18 at registration must also complete the required in-person Field Skills Evaluation Course.
Do I need a separate license to hunt deer in Washington?
Yes. A Small Game License does not authorize deer hunting. Deer hunters need the appropriate deer license and must follow Washington’s tag, season, area, and permit requirements.
When does the Washington hunting license expire?
Washington’s license year runs from April 1 through March 31. Individual licenses and permits may have additional validity rules, so check the specific credential you’re purchasing.
Does Washington accept an out-of-state hunter education certificate?
Generally, yes. Washington recognizes qualifying hunter education certificates from other states, Canadian provinces, and countries that meet applicable IHEA standards. You must still meet Washington’s licensing requirements.
Can non-residents hunt in Washington?
Yes. Non-residents can purchase Washington hunting licenses, although their license and tag fees are generally much higher than resident rates. Some hunts also have separate application and permit requirements for non-residents.