Blog / How to Get a Texas Hunting License

By Connor Thomas
Tuesday, February 21, 2023

 
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To embark upon the legally approved procurement of a hunting license or permit in Texas, you may find yourself being obliged to procure a Hunter Education Certificate, which is subject to your age. Here is a rundown of the measures you must undertake in order to fulfill the mandatory requirements for the Texas Hunter Education Certification:

First and foremost, identify the appropriate license type that will best suit your specific hunting goals.

Following this, proceed to purchase the license through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's website or an authorized agent in Texas.

TYPES OF HUNTING LICENSES IN TEXAS

TEXAS RESIDENT

The establishment of residency in Texas is predicated on the individual being domiciled there for a minimum of six months. However, it is important to note that this rule has certain exceptions, including minors below the age of 17 and active military personnel and their dependents, who are classified as residents.

It is mandatory for Texas residents to possess a resident hunting license, although certain animals, such as nuisance fur-bearing, feral hogs, and coyotes, can be hunted without a license. For hunting other forms of wildlife, additional endorsements may be required. Further detailed information can be found on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's website.

YOUTH HUNTING LICENSE

Hunters in Texas who are residents or non-residents and are below the age of 17 are mandated to possess a Youth Hunting License in order to hunt in the state. In this category of hunters, state hunting endorsement requirements are waived, except for the Reptile and Amphibian Endorsement. For more in-depth details about the specific requirements, please visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website.

NON-RESIDENT

In order to indulge in hunting activities in Texas, non-residents must obtain a non-resident hunting license. Additionally, additional licenses and endorsements may be required for hunting specific species.

Non-residents below the age of 17 can purchase a resident Youth Hunting License. It is pertinent to bear in mind that non-residents are not eligible for lifetime hunting licenses.

DISABILITY LICENSE

In Texas, there is no hunting license specifically created for individuals with disabilities, except for disabled veterans. However, hunters with disabilities may be eligible to use certain specific hunting methods. For more detailed information, kindly visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website.

MIGRATORY WATERFOWL REQUIREMENTS

Hunters aged 16 or over must purchase the Federal Duck Stamp to indulge in hunting migratory waterfowl in Texas. Moreover, hunters aged 17 or over are mandated to purchase the Texas Migratory Bird Endorsement. Furthermore, it is required for hunters to carry proof of their participation in the Harvest Information Program (HIP).

VETERAN AND MILITARY LICENSE

Active military personnel situated anywhere can obtain a resident hunting license in Texas. In addition to this, active-duty military personnel residing in Texas may receive a complimentary Texas Resident Duty Military, also known as a "Super Combo" License, and a free Texas Active Duty Military Hunting Package during their leave. Texas veterans with a service-connected disability, whether they reside in Texas or elsewhere, may be eligible for a complimentary Disabled Veteran license.

LICENSE EXPIRATION

The period of validity of hunting licenses in Texas ranges from August 15 to August 31 of the following year. Texas residents may purchase a lifetime hunting license, which provides them with lifelong hunting privileges.

In order to lawfully acquire a Texas hunting license, it is a straightforward procedure, which involves determining your eligibility, undertaking a hunter education course if necessary, applying for a license, choosing the appropriate license, and renewing your license on a yearly basis. By following these steps, you can rest assured that you are hunting in Texas legitimately and can revel in the sport for years to come.