How Much is a MN Deer Hunting License?
Heading to the great outdoors and planning a deer hunting adventure in Minnesota? Before you can start tracking down the big ones, you need to have a MN deer hunting license. But how much does it cost? In this article, we’ll break down the licensing fees for Minnesota deer hunting and provide you with some essential information to get ready for your hunting trip.
Licensing Overview
Before we dive into the cost, let’s cover the basics. Hunting licenses in Minnesota are sold by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), also known as the Minnesota Legislature. The DNR provides licenses for various types of hunting, including deer. The MN deer hunting license is required for hunters aged 16 and over.
Cost Breakdown
Now, on to the main question – how much does a MN deer hunting license cost?
Resident Licenses
For Minnesota residents:
- Deer Any-Season License: This allows you to hunt deer for any season, including either-sex, antlered, and antlerless seasons. The cost varies depending on your residency. For residents younger than 18, it’s $15. For residents ages 18-64, it’s $20. For seniors (65+ and disabled), it’s $10. Youth (residents under 18 years old) can purchase their first deer license for FREE.
Non-Resident Licenses
For non-residents, the cost is higher, but still reasonable:
- Deer Any-Season License: This licenses allows non-residents to hunt deer for any season. The cost is $130.
Additional Fees
Keep in mind that there are a few additional fees to keep in mind:
- Deer Stamp: Minnesota requires a deer stamp validation for each deer license (residents and non-residents). The cost for deer stamp validation is $3.
- Federal Migratory Game Bird Stamp: If you plan to hunt waterfowl, you’ll also need a federal migratory game bird stamp, also known as a duck stamp. The cost is $25.
Here’s a summary of fees in a table:
| License Type | Resident Younger than 18 (<18) | Resident Ages 18-64 | Senior (65+) and Disabled | Non-Resident (Any-Season) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MN Deer Any-Season License | $15.00 | $20.00 | $10.00 | $130.00 |
| Deed Stamp Validation | $3.00 (included in license) | $3.00 (included in license) | $3.00 (included in license) | $3.00 (included in license) |
| Federal Migratory Game Bird Stamp (Duck Stamp) | – | – | – | $25.00 |
Important Reminder
Before purchasing your licenses, make sure you comply with the following:
• Hunter Education: MN requires a hunter education card for all hunters born on or after January 1, 1972 (residents and non-residents).
• Photo Identification: You’ll need a valid photo ID or proof of residency to validate your license.
Closing Thoughts
Now that we’ve covered the cost, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the remaining requirements and regulations for a successful MN deer hunting season. Make sure to apply for your licenses well before the season starts, as delays can occur. With an understanding of the costs, you’ll be ready for an unforgettable hunting experience in the great state of Minnesota!
Additional Resources:
- Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) – www.dnr.state.mn.us
- Minnesota Hunter-Ed – www.dev.mndnr.gov/safety/hunting/hunters-ed
- Federal Migratory Bird Hunting Stamp – www.fws.gov/wsfr/shorebirds/Special-Permits-Birds.html
