How Much Does It Cost to Get a Georgia Hunting License?

The Georgia hunting license cost depends on what you plan to hunt. A basic annual hunting license for Georgia residents costs $15.00, while nonresidents pay $100.00 for the same annual privilege. If you plan to hunt big game such as deer, turkey, or bear, you'll need additional permits, which will increase the base license price.

Final cost depends on your needs. Plus, if you're new to hunting, you'll probably need to complete hunter education before getting licensed. There are many variables, so let's break down the costs and timelines.

How Much Does it Cost to Get a Georgia Hunting License?

The answer depends on your residency, age, and the type of game you plan to hunt. For residents age 16-64, the basic annual hunting license costs $15.00. That's the starting point for many hunters, but it does not cover everything. 

If you want to hunt deer, turkey, or bear, you'll need an annual big game license as well. Other options, such as one-day licenses, sportsman's licenses, and combo licenses, make sense depending on how often you hunt and whether you also want to fish.

For nonresidents, Georgia is one of the more expensive places to hunt in the nation. A nonresident annual hunting license costs $100.00, and big game privileges cost significantly more.

There is no single answer to how much does it cost to get a Georgia hunting license. The price stays relatively low for some hunters, especially residents. But let's explore the final Georgia hunting license cost once you add species-specific privileges, convenience fees, or waterfowl requirements.

What Are Georgia Resident License Fees (Ages 16–64)?

Georgia residents have several options depending on how often they hunt and what kind of season they want to build.

Georgia Resident Hunting License Fees
Annual Hunting License	A resident annual hunting license costs $15.00. This basic option works well for hunters who don't need any bundled privileges.
Annual Big Game License	A resident annual big game license costs $25.00. This is required if you want to hunt deer, turkey, or bear. For many resident hunters, this add-on is sufficient.
Sportsman's License	A resident sportsman's license costs $65.00. This option includes hunting, big game, fishing, and trout privileges. If you spend a lot of time outdoors throughout the year, this is how you'll cover multiple activities under a single license.
One-Day License	A resident one-day hunting license costs $5.00, with each additional day costing $1.00. This can be a useful option if you plan only a short hunt or want a lower-cost way to get started.
Combo Hunting & Fishing License	A resident combo hunting and fishing license costs $30.00 annually. For sportsmen who split their time between hunting seasons and the water, this can be a convenient middle-ground option.

For residents, one of the biggest advantages is flexibility when hunting and fishing in Georgia.

What Are Nonresident Hunting License Fees (Ages 16+) in Georgia?

Nonresident hunting licenses are much more expensive than resident licenses.

Non-Resident Hunting License Fees in Georgia
Annual Hunting License	A nonresident annual hunting license costs $100.00. This is the base annual option for out-of-state hunters who want general hunting privileges.
Annual Big Game License	A nonresident annual big game license costs $225.00. If you're traveling to Georgia to hunt deer, turkey, or bear, this is required.
Sportsman's License	A nonresident sportsman's license costs $400.00. This is the broadest option and may make sense for hunters who live across state lines, like me. I live in Florida, but I spend a lot of time in Georgia during different seasons.
One-Day License	A nonresident one-day hunting license costs $20.00, and each additional day costs $6.00. This gives short-term visitors a more limited option if they don't need a full annual license.

For nonresidents, the costs can increase quickly. Review your species, trip length, and overall season plans before you buy.

Georgia Hunting License Special Categories

Georgia also offers some special licensing categories that can reduce costs or make the system easier for specific groups of hunters.

Georgia Hunting License Special Category Fees
Seniors (65+)	Georgia residents age 65 and older can get an annual senior sportsman's license for $7.00. There is also a lifetime option for $70.00. Residents born before July 1, 1952, qualify for a free lifetime license.
Youth (Under 16)	Georgia offers an optional youth sportsman's license for $15.00. This is an option up until age 17.

Additional Costs to Expect

The main license fee isn't always the full amount you'll pay. There are a few other common costs that can affect your total.

Transaction fees apply when you buy your license. Online and retail purchases include a $3.00 fee, while phone orders include a $5.00 fee. Georgia also offers an optional hard card durable license for $6.00. Some hunters like having a sturdier physical copy, while others may decide they don't need it.

If you hunt waterfowl, you'll need a federal duck stamp, which costs $29.00. That is separate from the state license structure and adds another layer to your total seasonal cost.

What Are the Harvest Record Requirements?

Harvest records are required for deer, turkey, and bear. They don't add to the cost, but all big game hunters need to account for them as part of the licensing process. Hog hunters are exempt from reporting harvests.

What Is a Hunting License?

A hunting license is a legal permit issued by the state that allows you to hunt wildlife. In Georgia, that license is tied to specific rules, seasons, and species.

Licenses do more than permit you to hunt. They help the state regulate wildlife populations, manage hunting seasons, and support conservation. Without a licensing system, it would be much harder to protect habitat, maintain healthy game populations, and keep hunting structured and responsible.

Your hunting license is connected to the type of game you'll pursue. The system matches your hunting privileges to the specific hunting opportunities you want.

Why You Need a Hunting License

A hunting license is required by law in Georgia for most hunters, but it also supports wildlife conservation and habitat protection. License revenue helps fund state wildlife agencies and enforcement, both of which are important for long-term hunting access and healthy wildlife populations.

Licensing also promotes safe and ethical hunting practices. It works alongside hunter education to ensure hunters understand their responsibilities in the field, including legal rules, ethical decision-making, and safe firearm handling.

From a practical standpoint, having the correct license also helps you avoid fines, penalties, and other problems that can come from hunting a state with a very active wildlife officer presence without proper documentation.

Who Needs a Hunting License in Georgia?

In Georgia, residents and nonresidents age 16 and older need a hunting license for most types of hunting. That is the general rule, and it applies to many common seasons and species.

There are some exemptions, though. Certain landowners and family members may qualify for limited exceptions in specific situations. Review the current rules carefully if you think you may qualify.

This exemption can often cause problems. Just because you live on land or hunt with family does not automatically mean a license is not required. We recommend checking the details before the season, so you know where you stand.

What Are the Requirements to Get a Georgia Hunting License?

Before you buy a hunting license in Georgia, you need to make sure you meet the state's basic requirements.

Hunter Education

Hunter education is required for anyone born on or after January 1, 1961. This requirement applies to many hunters, especially first-time license buyers and younger adults.

The course covers firearm safety, hunting laws, ethics, and responsibility. Georgia allows hunters to complete this requirement through online, in-person, or hybrid courses, which gives you some flexibility based on your schedule and learning style.

Identification and Documentation

Be prepared to provide identification, such as a driver's license or another valid ID, and have your hunter education certificate ready.

Payment Method

You'll also need a payment method to complete the purchase, whether you buy online, in person, or by phone. 

How to Get a Georgia Hunting License

Georgia offers hunters several ways to purchase a license, making the process fairly straightforward once you know what you need.

Required Documents for a Georgia Hunting License:

Again, before you purchase your license, make sure you have: A driver's license or other valid ID Your hunter education certificate, if required A payment method

Have everything ready and easily accessible before you order.

Buy Online

You can buy your hunting license online through the state licensing website. For many hunters, this is the easiest route because it lets you review options and complete the purchase from home.

Buy In Person

You can also buy a license in person through authorized retailers, such as sporting goods stores and similar outlets. If you are stopping for ammo and gear, this is an easy option, but you'll need your hunter safety certification.

Purchase By Phone

Georgia also offers phone ordering through the licensing system. Call 1-800-366-2661 if you prefer to order your hunting license by phone.

Take an Online Hunter Education Course to Get Your Hunting License in Georgia

Georgia offers affordable hunting license options for many residents. Still, your total Georgia hunting license cost can increase depending on your residency, target species, how long you plan to hunt, and which extra privileges you'll need.

A simple resident license may only cost $15.00, but big game licenses, transaction fees, harvest records, and waterfowl requirements will all shape the final total.

That is why it helps to plan before the season starts. We recommend reviewing your species, license type, and purchase method so you know what to expect before checkout. If hunter education applies to you, taking the Hunter-Ed course for Georgia will help you meet the requirements for getting licensed.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Georgia Hunting License (FAQs)

Q: How much is a non-resident big game hunting license in Georgia?

A: As of 2025, a non-resident annual big game license in Georgia costs $225, while a one-day non-resident big game license is $130, with additional days available for $8 each. Non-residents also need a base hunting license, which runs $100 annually or $20 for a single day.

Q: How to hunt in Georgia from out of state?

A: Out-of-state hunters need a nonresident base hunting license plus a Big Game privilege if pursuing deer, turkey, or bear. Licenses can be purchased online, from a local agent, or by calling the Georgia DNR. A hunter education course is mandatory for most hunters born on or after January 1, 1961. All harvested deer, turkey, and bear must be reported via Georgia Game Check within 24 hours.

Q: Does Georgia offer a lifetime hunting license?

A: Yes, Georgia offers lifetime sportsman's licenses for both residents and non-residents. Resident adult lifetime sportsman's licenses range from $70 for seniors 65 and older up to $750 for adults aged 16–49, with various tiers in between based on age. Lifetime licenses are valid for the life of the purchaser.

Q: How many deer tags in GA per season?

A: The statewide bag limit for deer in Georgia is 12 deer per hunter per season. Within that total, a hunter may harvest no more than 10 antlerless deer and no more than 2 antlered deer. One of the two antlered bucks must meet the Quality Buck criteria, meaning it has at least 4 points one inch or longer on one side of the antlers, or a minimum outside antler spread of 15 inches. 

Q: Can you hunt on your own land without a license in GA?

A: Georgia resident landowners who hunt on their own land, or hunters on land owned by an immediate family member they live with, are exempt from most Georgia hunting license requirements. However, they still need the free Harvest Record when hunting deer or turkey, and a free GA Waterfowl Migratory Bird License plus a Federal Duck Stamp ($29) when hunting migratory birds like ducks or geese. 

Q: How much is the fine for hunting without a license in Georgia?

A: The fine for hunting without any type of license in Georgia is $176 for residents, while non-residents face a higher fine of $262. Non-residents caught hunting big game without the required big game license face a steeper fine of $498. Beyond monetary penalties, repeated or serious violations can result in suspension or permanent revocation of hunting privileges, criminal charges, and confiscation of equipment.