Michigan is a great place for hunting. From deer and turkey to ducks and small game, the state has plenty to offer hunters. But before you head out, you need a hunting license.

A license isn’t just a rule it helps protect wildlife, keeps hunting safe, and supports conservation programs. In this guide, I’ll explain everything about getting a hunting license in Michigan: who needs it, the types available, rules for different animals, fees, and how to buy one.

Whether you’re new to hunting or already experienced, this will make the process clear and simple.

Why You Need a Hunting License in Michigan

1. Legal Requirement

In Michigan, it’s the law you cannot hunt without a license. If you’re caught hunting without one, you can face heavy fines, lose your hunting privileges, or even risk jail time in serious cases. A license is your proof that you’re hunting legally.

2. Wildlife Conservation

The money collected from license fees goes straight into protecting Michigan’s wildlife and natural areas. It helps the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manage animal populations, improve habitats, and make sure hunting stays balanced and sustainable for the future.

3. Safety & Education

Getting a license also means you’ll go through hunter safety training (if you were born after 1960). These courses teach you how to handle firearms, follow hunting laws, and stay safe in the field. It’s all about making hunting safer for you and everyone else outdoors.

Who Needs a Hunting License?

1. Age Requirements

In Michigan, almost everyone who wants to hunt needs a license both residents and non-residents. If you’re 10 years or older, you must buy a license to hunt. Kids younger than that can still hunt, but they need to be part of a special youth program.

2. Mentored Youth Program (for Kids)

Children under 10 years old can hunt through the Mentored Youth Program. They don’t need the regular license but must hunt under the close supervision of an adult who has a valid license. This way, kids can safely learn hunting at a young age.

3. Apprentice License (for Beginners)

If you’ve never hunted before, you can get an Apprentice License. This lets you try hunting without first completing the hunter safety course. But you must hunt with an experienced adult (21 or older) who has a license. You can only use this option twice before you need to complete the full hunter safety training.

4. Exemptions

There are very few exemptions. For example, certain military veterans or people with disabilities may qualify for special licenses. But in general, if you plan to hunt, you’ll need a valid license.

Types of Hunting Licenses in Michigan

1. Base License (Mandatory for All Hunters)

Everyone who hunts in Michigan needs a base license first. This license lets you hunt small game like rabbit or squirrel, and it’s also required before you can buy other hunting licenses.

2. Apprentice License

If you’re new to hunting, you can get an Apprentice License. It lets beginners try hunting without taking the hunter safety course right away. But you must be with a licensed adult who is at least 21. You can only use this option twice in your lifetime.

3. Mentored Youth License

Kids under 10 can hunt with a Mentored Youth License. It allows them to hunt different game species while being supervised by a licensed adult. This program helps young hunters safely learn the basics.

4. Combination Licenses (Deer Combo, etc.)

For certain animals like deer, you can buy a combination license. For example, a Deer Combo License gives you two deer tags one for an antlered deer and one that may be used for another deer depending on the rules. This is a popular choice for serious deer hunters.

5. Resident vs. Non-Resident Fees

Michigan charges different fees depending on whether you live in the state or not.

• Residents pay less for licenses.
• Non-residents pay more since they don’t contribute through state taxes.

6. Special Permits (Disabled Hunters, Veterans, etc.)

There are special permits available for certain groups:

• Disabled hunters may get special permits for using crossbows or hunting from vehicles.
• Veterans sometimes qualify for discounted or free licenses.

Hunting Education & Safety Certificate

1. Who Needs Hunter Education

If you were born after January 1, 1960, you must complete a hunter safety course before buying a regular hunting license in Michigan (unless you’re using the apprentice license).

Course Details

The course is designed to teach safe hunting practices. It usually includes:

• Classroom lessons on laws, ethics, and safety rules
• A field portion where you practice handling firearms or bows safely
• Some parts can also be done online, which makes it easier for busy people

Cost and Duration

The course is affordable, usually around $10–$30 depending on where you take it. It doesn’t take long most courses are a day or two to complete.

Proof and Certification Process

Once you pass the test and complete the course, you’ll get a hunter safety certificate. You must show this certificate when buying your hunting license, and it proves that you’re trained to hunt safely.

Michigan Hunting Seasons & Species

Michigan offers hunting for many different animals, but each species has its own season and license rules. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular ones:

🦌 Deer Hunting

• Michigan is famous for its white-tailed deer hunting.
• Hunters can use archery, firearms, or muzzleloaders depending on the season.
• You need a Deer License or a Deer Combo License (gives you two tags).
• There are also antlerless permits for hunting does, which help control deer populations.
• Seasons vary by region (Upper and Lower Peninsula).

🦃 Turkey Hunting

• Michigan has spring and fall turkey seasons.
• A turkey license is required, and most spring hunts are lottery-based because spots are limited.
• Fall turkey licenses are more widely available.
• You must apply ahead of time to get your hunting dates and areas.

🦆 Waterfowl Hunting (Ducks & Geese)

• Waterfowl hunting requires a Michigan waterfowl license and a Federal Duck Stamp (for hunters 16 and older).
• Seasons are set each year by the Michigan DNR and follow federal guidelines.
• Hunters also need to register with the Harvest Information Program (HIP).

🐇 Small Game (Rabbit, Squirrel, Pheasant, Grouse, etc.)

• The Base License covers small game hunting.
• Popular species include rabbit, squirrel, pheasant, grouse, and woodcock.
• Seasons and daily bag limits vary by species.
• For pheasant hunting on public lands, you may also need a pheasant license in some areas.

🐻 Bear Hunting

• Bear hunting in Michigan is strictly controlled.
• Hunters must enter a lottery system to get a license.
• Only a limited number of bear tags are given out each year.
• Seasons are divided by region, and baiting is allowed under certain rules.

🦌 Elk Hunting

• Elk hunting is very rare and tightly managed.
• Like bear hunting, licenses are given through a lottery system.
• Only a small number of hunters are chosen each year.
• This keeps Michigan’s elk population healthy and sustainable.

Michigan Hunting Regulations & Restrictions

Weapon Rules (Firearms, Archery, Crossbows)

• Firearms, bows, and crossbows can all be used, but only in their proper seasons.
• Crossbows are legal in most areas but may have special rules in the Upper Peninsula.
• Always check the specific season dates and zones before hunting.

Baiting & Feeding Restrictions

• In much of Michigan, baiting and feeding deer is banned to prevent the spread of diseases like Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD).
• There are some exceptions for disabled hunters with permits.
• Feeding wildlife outside of hunting (like putting out corn) is also restricted.

Bag Limits & Tagging Requirements

• Every hunting license comes with rules on how many animals you can take (called bag limits).
• For deer and other big game, you must tag your animal immediately after harvest.
• Tags must stay attached until the meat is processed.

Hunting Zones & Land Rules

• Michigan is divided into different hunting zones with their own seasons and rules.
• On public land, hunters must follow state regulations and respect posted signs.
• On private land, you must have the landowner’s permission to hunt.

Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact

• Michigan is part of this national agreement.
• If you break hunting laws in Michigan, you can lose hunting rights in other states too.
• This encourages hunters to follow the rules everywhere they go.

How to Buy a Michigan Hunting License

Buying a hunting license in Michigan is easy, and you have a few options:

1. Online (Michigan DNR Website)

• Visit the Michigan DNR website.
• Create an account or log in.
• Choose the type of license you need and any special permits.
• Pay online using a credit or debit card.
• You’ll get a digital copy of your license, which you can print or save on your phone.

2. In-Person at License Agents & Retailers

• You can buy licenses at DNR offices, sporting goods stores, and other licensed agents.
• Bring your ID and hunter safety certificate.
• Pay with cash, card, or check depending on the location.

3. By Phone (If Applicable)

• Some licenses may be purchased by phone through DNR-approved services.
• Have your ID and payment information ready.

Payment Methods

• Credit/debit card, cash, or check (varies by location).
• Online purchases usually require a card.

Required Documents

• Valid ID (driver’s license or state ID)
• Hunter Safety Certificate (if applicable)
• Any previous license info if renewing

Once you have your license, always carry it with you while hunting. Law enforcement may ask to see it at any time.

Michigan Hunting License Fees 2025

Michigan Hunting License Fees 2025

Resident vs Non-Resident Fees

License Type	Resident	Non-Resident	Notes
Base License	$11	$151	Required for all hunters; includes small game hunting.
Deer License	$20	$20	Valid for one antlered deer.
Deer Combo License	$40	$190	Includes two deer licenses: one regular and one restricted.
Antlerless Deer License	$20	$20	Valid for one antlerless deer.
Bear License	$25	$25	Application required ($5).
Elk License	$100	Not Available	Application required ($5); residents only.
Turkey License (Spring/Fall)	$15	$15	Seniors (65+) pay $6.
Waterfowl License	$12	$12	Includes HIP registration; federal duck stamp required ($28).
Small Game License	Included	$80 (7-day)	Non-residents can opt for 3-day ($50) or 7-day licenses.
Pheasant License	$25	$25	Required for public land hunting in the Lower Peninsula.
Fur Harvester License	$15	$15	Seniors (65+) pay $6.
Mentored Youth License	$7.50	$7.50	For hunters under 10; must be accompanied by a licensed adult.

💰 Additional Costs

• Federal Migratory Bird Hunting Stamp (Duck Stamp): $28 (required for waterfowl hunters aged 16 and older).
• Deer Management Assistance Permit (DMA): $10 (allows additional antlerless deer harvest on private land).
• Antlerless Deer Management Area Hunts: $20 (for specific managed areas).
• Bear Participation (No-Kill-Tag Bear License): $15 (for hunters not harvesting a bear).
• Military Licenses: Free for full-time active-duty and 100% disabled veterans who are Michigan residents.

Penalties for Hunting Without a License

Legal Consequences

Hunting without a valid Michigan license is a serious offense. You could face:

• Fines:- the amount depends on the animal and situation
• Loss of hunting privileges:- your license may be suspended or revoked
• Jail time:- in severe cases, repeated violations can lead to jail

Case Examples (Optional)

There have been cases where hunters were caught taking deer or turkeys without a license. Many were fined hundreds of dollars, and some lost the right to hunt for a year or more. These examples show why following the rules is important.

Why Compliance Matters

• Protects wildlife populations and ecosystems
• Keeps hunting fair and safe for everyone
• Avoids legal trouble and financial penalties
• Supports conservation programs funded by license fees

Following the law ensures you can enjoy hunting in Michigan safely and responsibly, season after season.

Conclusion

A hunting license is essential for following the law, protecting wildlife, and staying safe in the outdoors. Hunt responsibly, respect the rules, and enjoy Michigan’s natural beauty.

Get your license and enjoy Michigan’s great outdoors legally and safely!