Headline Takeaways
Two-state license cost decisionUse this comparison when you already have two states in mind and need to decide which one is cheaper, easier, or more realistic for a real trip. Open each state page for full license rules, then use the national cost table when you need to widen the shortlist again.
- Montana is cheaper for the primary resident base license by $5.75.
- Montana is cheaper for the primary non-resident base license by $145.
- Idaho deer planning starts with "Archery: Aug 30 - Sep 30", while Montana starts with "Archery: Sep 6 - Oct 19".
Side-by-Side Table
Planning Item Idaho Montana
Resident base license $15.75 $10
Non-resident base license $195 $50
Hunter education Required for hunters born after 1975-01-01 Required for hunters born after 1985-01-01
Resident deer tag $24.75 $16
Non-resident deer tag $351.75 $760
Deer season snapshot Archery: Aug 30 - Sep 30 Archery: Sep 6 - Oct 19
Deer draw rule No deer draw required for the primary path Draw required by Nonresident combination applications typically run Mar 1-Apr 1; resident and B-license rules vary by district
Official agency Idaho Department of Fish & Game Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
Planning Notes
- Idaho official purchases flow through Idaho Department of Fish & Game; Montana uses Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.
- Idaho: Required for hunters born after 1975-01-01. Montana: Required for hunters born after 1985-01-01.
- Idaho: No deer draw required for the primary path. Montana: Draw required by Nonresident combination applications typically run Mar 1-Apr 1; resident and B-license rules vary by district.