Washington Hunting License

How Do I Get My State Hunting License?

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

1. Complete the Washington hunter education certification requirements.
2. Choose the correct license type.
3. Buy the license through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website or a Washington–approved vendor.

Types of Washington Hunting Licenses

Washington Resident

A resident is a person who has lived in Washington for at least 90 days. Active-duty military members are considered residents. Visit the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website for more details on residency.

All Washington residents must have a resident hunting license. Additional licenses may be required.

Non-Resident

All non-residents must have a non-resident hunting license. Additional licenses may be required.

Youth Hunting License

Washington residents and non-residents under the age of 16 must have a hunting license. They are eligible for reduced-fee licenses. Additional licenses may be required.

Senior Hunting License

Washington does not offer reduced-fee hunting licenses for senior citizens.

Disability License

Washington residents with a permanent disability may be eligible for the Disabled Hunter Permit. They are also eligible for reduced-fee licenses. Visit the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website for more details.

Military and Veteran License

Active-duty military members who are permanently stationed in Washington may purchase a resident hunting license. In addition, active-duty military members who are Washington residents but stationed elsewhere may purchase a resident hunting license.

Resident veterans who have at least a 30% service-connected disability may be eligible for reduced-fee licenses. In addition, resident veterans age 65 or older with a service-connected disability may be eligible for reduced-fee licenses.

Non-resident veterans who are 65 or older and who have at least a 30% service-connected disability may be eligible to purchase reduced-fee licenses.

Visit the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website for more information about military and veteran licenses.

Migratory Waterfowl Requirements

All hunters age 16 or older must purchase the Federal Duck Stamp when hunting migratory waterfowl. All hunters must purchase the Washington Migratory Bird Permit. In addition, hunters are required to have proof of their participation in the Harvest Information Program (HIP). Hunters may be required to purchase the Migratory Bird Authorization, depending on the species hunted and the hunting area.

License Expiration

Hunting licenses are good from April 1 to March 31 of the next year.

Where to Buy a Washington Hunting License

• Visit the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website.
• Call 1-866-246-9453.
• Visit a Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife office or an approved license vendor.