Securing the correct paperwork with plenty of time to spare is the surest way to avoid opening‐day surprises during deer hunting season, Texas officials say.
Preseason prep for deer season starts early every summer. Before you can chase East Texas bucks, all of your licenses, endorsements, and hunter safety requirements need to be squared away before you climb into a stand.
Let's look at who needs what, when to buy it, and how a hunter safety course fits into the plan.
Why Texas Deer Hunting Stands Out
Texas deer hunting season is famous for four big reasons:
An abundant deer population. Roughly five million white‑tails roam the state, giving hunters high success rates, especially on managed ranches.
Diverse terrain. Glass wide‑open Texas hillsides or still‑hunt the shady pine breaks in the east. There are as many environments to hunt here as there are good HS football teams.
Private land access. Over 95% of Texas is privately owned. Leases, day hunts, and family land are places where both beginners and seasoned veterans can find a spot to hunt.
Long seasons. The separate archery‑only, youth, general rifle, and muzzleloader windows, plus late seasons in select counties, all stretch the season from early October into January.
As you can see, there are plenty of good reasons why hunters love to hunt deer in Texas!
Who Needs a License (and When to Buy It)
Every resident and non‑resident needs a valid Texas hunting license to pursue deer. Yep, even landowners on their own acreage need a license.
As you review the license you need for the season, remember that TPWD (Texas Parks & Wildlife Department) offers discounted youth licenses for hunters under 17 and senior licenses for residents 65 or older.
Licenses go on sale August 15 each year and remain valid through August 31 the following year. Buy early since retailers and the TPWD website both experience last-minute traffic spikes on high-volume mornings.
Hunter Education: Your First Step
Before participating in the deer hunting season, Texas hunters born on or after September 2, 1971, must get a hunter education certification. No exceptions are made for out-of-state residents.
TPWD gives you three ways to earn it:
Online‑only course: For ages 17 and up.
Online plus an In-Person Field Day: Ages 9 to 16 complete an online module, then a half‑day hands‑on session.
One‑year deferral: Hunters 17 and older can purchase a one‑time deferral but must finish the course before the next season and hunt while accompanied by a certified hunter.
Finish the course online with our state-certified Texas Hunter‑Ed course. Then, keep your card or digital proof with your license. Game wardens typically ask for both.
Choosing the Right Deer License and Endorsements
Texas keeps things flexible, so choose the license that fits your hunt.
License options include:
Resident Hunting License: Standard option for adult residents.
Youth Hunting License: Discounted for anyone under 17.
Senior Resident License: Reduced price for residents 65 and older.
Non‑Resident Options: Full‑season, five‑day, and special late‑season licenses are available.
Super Combo: Bundles hunting, fishing, and all endorsements.
If you're an avid hunter, angler, and general outdoor enthusiast, the Combo could be the best choice!
What About Tags?
Depending on what you're hunting and how, you'll also need some additional required items.
Retail locations: Sporting goods stores, grocery chains, and many feed stores offer licenses at the register.
Outdoor Annual App: Download the free Texas Outdoor Annual app to store a digital copy of your license, check county regulations, and report harvests.
Buying digitally also provides instant access to updates, which will be particularly helpful if rules change mid-season.
Important Information for Non-Texas Hunters
A few seasons ago, I was invited to join a buddy on his South Texas lease for the late December youth and muzzleloader weekend. Living out of state, I assumed a simple non‑resident license would be a one‑click affair the night before the flight, and my son and I would be good to go.
Instead, I learned that proof of hunter education had to be uploaded, and my archery endorsement needed to be attached in the same checkout. Had I not gotten a digital card years earlier, I'd have spent an opening morning in town, not in the blind.
The takeaway? Even guests need to handle Texas paperwork well in advance. So, learn about the hunter education requirements in Texas to make sure you're clear on the necessary details, including exemptions and deadlines.
Stay Legal During the Texas Deer Hunting Season
Always carry your paper or digital license and proof of hunter safety with you when hunting. It's usually the first thing an officer will ask for, so it's best to keep it in the same place in your bag or vest.
Tag your deer immediately and complete the harvest log before moving the animal. Failure to meet the tagging requirements can result in fines or the loss of hunting privileges.
Lastly, comply with hunter education requirements, and be sure to follow county‑specific antler restrictions and season dates.
Hunter-Ed Helps You Stay Safe During Deer Hunting Season, Texas Hunters
Getting your license, endorsements, and hunter education squared away right now frees you to focus on the fun parts of the hunt: scouting, sighting‑in, and enjoying camp with friends.
Whether you're a resident chasing a local giant or a guest dreaming of South Texas brush bucks, proper prep ensures a smooth, legal, and ethical deer hunting season in Texas.
Hunting this year in the Lone Star State? Completing the online course for Texans through Hunter‑Ed is the first and easiest step you can take toward a safe, successful season.
Our course is approved by TPWD and covers everything you need to know to stay safe when hunting!
