South Dakota Hunting License: Cost, Requirements & How to Apply (2026)
Complete guide to South Dakota hunting license costs, requirements, seasons, and regulations for the Calendar year or season specific season.
South Dakota Hunting License Fees 2026
Current hunting license costs for residents and non-residents. License year: Calendar year or season specific.
Resident Licenses
Non-Resident Licenses
Tags & Permits
Endorsements & Stamps
How to Buy a South Dakota Hunting License
Multiple convenient options to get your license quickly.
Buy Online (Recommended)
Visit gfp.sd.gov. Create account or sign in. Purchase small game or combo license + habitat stamp. Apply for deer/elk draws during application periods. Pay with credit/debit card. Print or use mobile app
Buy In Person
Walmart stores statewide, Local sporting goods stores, County Treasurer offices, GFP offices
Buy By Phone
Call 605-223-7660. Service fee may apply
Shop for hunting gear at our partners:
The easiest way to buy your South Dakota hunting license is online through the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks. You'll get your license instantly and can start hunting right away.
Hunter Education Requirements in South Dakota
Who Can Hunt for Free (or at a Discount) in South Dakota?
South Dakota Hunting Seasons 2026-2027
Key hunting season dates and weapon restrictions.
South Dakota Bag Limits
Daily and seasonal harvest limits for major game species.
How South Dakota Compares to Neighboring States
See how hunting license costs stack up in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota Hunting Licenses
How much is a hunting license in South Dakota?
Resident small game costs $35 plus a $10 Habitat Stamp ($45 total). Most license fees include a $6 surcharge for wildlife damage management and public land access. Non-residents pay $110 for small game (two 5-day periods) plus $25 habitat stamp.
Is South Dakota good for pheasant hunting?
Yes, South Dakota is widely considered the #1 pheasant hunting destination in America. The daily limit is 3 roosters with no season limit. The traditional season runs mid-October through January. Over 1 million pheasants are harvested annually.
Can non-residents hunt elk in South Dakota?
No, South Dakota elk tags are available to residents only through a very competitive lottery draw. Application fee is $10 per season. Unsuccessful applicants earn one preference point per year.
How much is a non-resident deer tag in South Dakota?
Non-resident deer tags cost $375 for most seasons (West River, Black Hills). West River Special Buck tags are $650. All are awarded through draw. Preference points cost $5 res/$10 NR.
What is the SD Habitat Stamp?
All hunters 18+ must purchase a Habitat Stamp ($10 res/$25 NR) once per license year. Funds support habitat conservation and public hunting access. Only one per year regardless of how many licenses you buy.
What is the $6 surcharge on SD licenses?
Most hunting license fees include a $6 legislative surcharge that funds wildlife damage management programs and public hunting land access. Youth, fur-bearer, predator/varmint, and 1-day licenses are exempt.
Can I buy a South Dakota hunting license online?
Yes, at gfp.sd.gov or through the SD GFP mobile app. OTC licenses (small game, pheasant) are also available at Walmart, sporting goods stores, and County Treasurer offices.
When is South Dakota's pheasant season?
Traditional pheasant season opens the third Saturday in October through January. Residents get a 3-day head start before non-residents can hunt. Youth-only pheasant season is in late September/early October.