Michigan Hunting License

How Do I Get My State Hunting License?

Depending on your age, you may be required to have the Hunter Education Certificate in order to legally buy a license or permit to hunt.

1. Complete the Michigan hunter education certification requirements.
2. Choose the correct license type.
3. Buy the license through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website or a Michigan–approved vendor.

Types of Michigan Hunting Licenses

Michigan Resident

A resident is a person whose permanent home is in Michigan. Active-duty military members and non-resident full-time students who live in Michigan and attend an educational institution in Michigan are considered residents.

All Michigan residents must have the Base License. This license allows hunters to hunt small game. Additional licenses are required for other game species. Visit the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website for exemptions.

Non-Resident

All non-residents must have the Base License. This license allows hunters to hunt small game. Additional licenses are required for other game species.

Youth Hunting License

Michigan residents and non-residents ages 10 to 16 must purchase the reduced-fee Junior Base License.

Michigan residents and non-residents up to age 9 may hunt with the Mentored Youth License. They must hunt with a mentor who is at least 21 years old and who has a hunting license. Visit the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website for more details.

Senior Hunting License

Michigan residents age 65 or older may purchase the reduced-fee Senior Base License.

Disability License

Michigan does not offer a hunting license specifically for people with disabilities. Visit the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website for information on permits, specialized hunts, and other accommodations.

Military and Veteran License

Active-duty military members who are stationed in Michigan may purchase a resident hunting license. In addition, active-duty military members who are Michigan residents but stationed elsewhere are eligible to receive a free hunting license while on leave. Visit the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website for more details.

Resident veterans who have 100% service-connected disability may obtain any hunting license for free as long as it does not require a separate application. Visit the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website for more details.

Migratory Waterfowl Requirements

All hunters age 16 or older must purchase the Michigan Waterfowl Hunting License and the Federal Duck Stamp when hunting migratory waterfowl. Registration for the Harvest Information Program (HIP) is included with the purchase of the state license. Additional stamps may be required.

License Expiration

The Base License expires March 31 of each year.

Where to Buy a Michigan Hunting License

• Visit the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website.
• Visit an approved license vendor.