Arkansas Hunting License: Cost, Requirements & How to Apply (2026)
Complete guide to Arkansas hunting license costs, requirements, seasons, and regulations for the Jul 1, 2025 – Jun 30, 2026 season.
Arkansas Hunting License Fees 2026
Current hunting license costs for residents and non-residents. License year: Jul 1, 2025 – Jun 30, 2026.
Resident Licenses
Non-Resident Licenses
Tags & Permits
Endorsements & Stamps
How to Buy a Arkansas Hunting License
Multiple convenient options to get your license quickly.
Buy Online (Recommended)
Visit agfc.com/licenses. Create an account or sign in. Select Sportsman's Hunting ($25) or other license type. Verify hunter education if applicable. Pay with credit/debit card. Print or save your digital license and tags
Buy In Person
Walmart stores statewide, Bass Pro Shops / Cabela's, Local sporting goods stores, AGFC regional offices
Buy By Phone
Call 800-364-4263. Service fee may apply
Shop for hunting gear at our partners:
The easiest way to buy your Arkansas hunting license is online through the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission. You'll get your license instantly and can start hunting right away.
Hunter Education Requirements in Arkansas
Who Can Hunt for Free (or at a Discount) in Arkansas?
Arkansas Hunting Seasons 2026-2027
Key hunting season dates and weapon restrictions.
Arkansas Bag Limits
Daily and seasonal harvest limits for major game species.
How Arkansas Compares to Neighboring States
See how hunting license costs stack up in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arkansas Hunting Licenses
How much is a hunting license in Arkansas?
The resident Sportsman's Hunting license ($25) includes 6 deer tags + 2 turkey tags — best value. The basic Wildlife Conservation license is $10.50 with just 1 deer tag. Non-residents pay $410 annual or $175-$225 short-term trip licenses.
How many deer can you harvest in Arkansas?
With the Sportsman's license, you get 6 deer tags per season. Max 3 bucks (must have at least 3 points on one antler). Daily bag limit is 2 deer. Arkansas also offers bonus antlerless tags in some zones.
Can I hunt elk in Arkansas?
Yes, Arkansas has a limited elk hunt in the Buffalo River area. Permits are by lottery ($5 application fee). Resident permits are $15, non-resident $500. Very few permits issued annually, making this one of the most exclusive hunts in the Southeast.
Do seniors get a discount in Arkansas?
Yes, Arkansas residents 65+ pay only $3.50 for an annual hunting license with full Sportsman's privileges including 6 deer tags and 2 turkey tags. This is one of the best senior hunting deals in the country.
What are WMA Permits in Arkansas?
Wildlife Management Area (WMA) permits are required for hunting on AGFC's public WMAs. Day-use WMA permits are $5.50, or season WMA permits are $10.50. Some WMAs have additional quota hunts requiring separate application.
How long is Arkansas deer season?
Arkansas has one of the longest deer seasons in the South, running from mid-September archery through mid-February. It includes archery, modern gun, muzzleloader, and youth-specific segments spread across 5+ months.
Do I need hunter education in Arkansas?
Yes, hunters born on or after January 1, 1969 must complete education. AGFC offers a free online course with required field day. The apprentice program lets first-time hunters hunt supervised before completing education.
Can I buy an Arkansas hunting license online?
Yes, at agfc.com/licenses. The Sportsman's Hunting license ($25) is the most popular choice. Also available at Walmart and hundreds of authorized agents statewide.