Michigan Hunting License: Cost, Requirements & How to Apply (2026)
Complete guide to Michigan hunting license costs, requirements, seasons, and regulations for the Mar 1, 2025 – Mar 31, 2026 season.
Michigan Hunting License Fees 2026
Current hunting license costs for residents and non-residents. License year: Mar 1, 2025 – Mar 31, 2026.
Resident Licenses
Non-Resident Licenses
Tags & Permits
Endorsements & Stamps
How to Buy a Michigan Hunting License
Multiple convenient options to get your license quickly.
Buy Online (Recommended)
Visit mdnr-elicense.michigan.gov. Create or log in to your Michigan DNR account. Purchase base hunting license first. Add species-specific licenses and tags. Pay with credit/debit card. Print or use the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app
Buy In Person
Walmart and Meijer stores, Bass Pro Shops / Cabela's, Local sporting goods and bait shops, Michigan DNR Customer Service Centers
Buy By Phone
Call 517-284-6057. Service fee may apply
Shop for hunting gear at our partners:
The easiest way to buy your Michigan hunting license is online through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. You'll get your license instantly and can start hunting right away.
Hunter Education Requirements in Michigan
Who Can Hunt for Free (or at a Discount) in Michigan?
Michigan Hunting Seasons 2026-2027
Key hunting season dates and weapon restrictions.
Michigan Bag Limits
Daily and seasonal harvest limits for major game species.
How Michigan Compares to Neighboring States
See how hunting license costs stack up in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan Hunting Licenses
How much is a hunting license in Michigan?
Michigan uses a base license ($15 res / $200 NR) + species tag system. Deer is $25 res / $150 NR. The Complete License bundle ($150 res / $450 NR) includes base + all major species. Youth base is just $7.50.
How much is a non-resident deer tag in Michigan?
NR deer license: $150 (single tag) or $225 (combo: antlered + antlerless). NR must first purchase $200 base license ($350-425 total). Michigan offers excellent whitetail hunting, especially in the southern Lower Peninsula.
What is the Complete License?
The Complete License ($150 res / $450 NR) bundles base + deer, turkey, small game, and fishing. Far cheaper than buying individually. Includes both antlered and antlerless deer tags. Michigan's best value for multi-species hunters.
Can non-residents hunt elk in Michigan?
No, Michigan elk hunting is residents-only through lottery ($125 tag, $6 app fee). Very few permits issued annually for the NE Lower Peninsula elk range. Michigan's elk herd is about 1,100 animals — one of the eastern US's only wild elk herds.
How much public land is available in Michigan?
Michigan has over 4.6 million acres of state-owned land open to hunting, plus 3 million acres of federal land. The Upper Peninsula has vast public hunting for deer, bear, and grouse. Michigan ranks among the top states for public land access.
Can I hunt bear in Michigan?
Yes, through a limited draw. Bear license is $20 res / $200 NR with a $6 app fee. Michigan has an estimated 12,000 black bears, mainly in the Upper Peninsula. The season runs September through October in 7 bear management units.
What is the minimum age to hunt in Michigan?
Children under 10 can hunt small game with a licensed adult mentor at no cost. Youth 10-16 need a discounted base license ($7.50). No minimum age for mentored hunting.
Can I buy a Michigan hunting license online?
Yes, through the DNR e-License system at mdnr-elicense.michigan.gov. Also available at Walmart, Meijer, and local retailers statewide. Digital licenses are accepted in the field.