Montana Hunting License: What You Need to Know Before You Hunt

If you’re planning a hunting trip to Big Sky Country, understanding how to get a Montana hunting license is the first step. Known for its rugged landscapes and abundant wildlife, Montana offers some of the best hunting opportunities in the United States.

Whether you’re a resident, a nonresident, or a first-time hunter, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about hunting licenses in Montana—requirements, costs, application deadlines, and more.

Who Needs a Montana Hunting License?

In Montana, everyone who hunts wildlife—including big game, upland game birds, and furbearers—must have a valid hunting license. Additional permits and tags may be required depending on the species and location.

Required for:

• Montana residents and nonresidents
• Hunters 12 years or older
• Youth ages 10–11 (with Apprentice Hunter program approval)

Types of Montana Hunting Licenses

1. General Hunting License

Required for all hunters and serves as a base license. You’ll need this before applying for species-specific tags.

2. Big Game License

Covers species such as:

• Elk
• Deer
• Moose
• Bighorn Sheep

Usually requires both a license and a tag (which may be limited draw).

3. Upland Game Bird License

Required for hunting birds like pheasants, grouse, and partridges. Turkey hunting requires a separate permit.

4. Sportsman’s License (Residents only)

A discounted package that includes:

• General hunting license
• Fishing license
• Deer, elk, and upland bird licenses

5. Nonresident Combination Licenses

Bundled licenses that include general hunting, fishing, and tags for nonresident hunters.

License Costs (as of 2025)

License Type	Resident	Nonresident
General Hunting License	$10	$15
Deer License	$16	Varies (draw)
Elk License	$20	Varies (draw)
Sportsman’s Package	~$85	N/A
Upland Game Bird	$7.50	~$110

Note: Nonresident fees are higher and may change annually. Most big game licenses for nonresidents are awarded through a lottery draw system.

Application Deadlines

Montana has strict deadlines for license applications, especially for big game.

• Elk and Deer (Nonresidents): March 15
• Moose, Sheep, Goat: May 1
• Antelope: June 1
• Surplus Licenses (First Come, First Served): July–August

Apply early through the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) website to avoid missing out.

Where to Buy a Montana Hunting License

You can purchase a Montana hunting license:

• Online at fwp.mt.gov
• At Montana FWP regional offices
• Through authorized vendors like sporting goods stores or Walmart

All hunters must create a MyFWP account to track licenses, submit harvest data, and apply for future draws.

Hunter Education Requirements

If you were born after January 1, 1985, you must complete a Hunter Education Course before buying a license. This applies to both residents and nonresidents unless hunting under the Apprentice Program.

Montana offers:

• Online courses (with field day for youth)
• In-person classes through FWP-approved instructors

Final Thoughts

Montana offers unmatched hunting adventures, but getting your Montana hunting license is a crucial step to enjoy them legally and responsibly.

From elk bugling in the backcountry to flushing pheasants on the plains, Montana’s wilderness is worth exploring—but only with the proper permits.

Before your next hunt, double-check deadlines, review local regulations, and secure your license through Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.

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