Georgia is one of the most active hunting states in the country. From deer and turkey to feral hogs and ducks, the Peach State offers hunters countless opportunities across diverse landscapes. But before you can step foot into a WMA or even trap on your own land, it’s crucial to understand your GA hunting license requirements.
Whether you’re a resident, out-of-state hunter, landowner, or youth participant — this guide breaks down everything you need to know about the GA hunting license system.
Overview of the State of GA Hunting License
Licenses in Georgia are issued by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and cover a wide range of outdoor activities including hunting, fishing, trapping, and recreational access to state-managed lands. The type of license required depends on:
- Residency status (resident or nonresident)
- Age
- Type of game you wish to hunt
- Duration of hunting activity
There are:
- Annual licenses
- Short-term licenses (1–11 days)
- Lifetime licenses
- Free permits (Harvest Record, SIP)
Basic hunting privileges cover small game, while additional endorsements (like Big Game, Migratory Bird, or Alligator Harvest Permits) are required for certain species.
GA Hunting License Requirements by Age and Activity
Hunter Education: Anyone 16 years or older must complete a hunter education course to purchase a long-term license. Short-term licenses do not require hunter education.
Harvest Records: Required for all hunters, of all ages, who plan to hunt deer, turkey, alligator, or bear (Northern Zone). These must be carried (digital or paper) and filled out before moving harvested game.
Georgia Game Check: All big game harvests must be reported within 24 hours using the Outdoors GA app or online.
Types of GA Hunting Licenses
Resident Licenses
- Hunting License: $15/year; required for all resident hunters 16–64.
- Sportsman’s License: $65/year; includes hunting, big game, migratory birds, trout, and freshwater/saltwater fishing privileges.
- Senior Sportsman’s License: $7/year (or $70 lifetime) for hunters born after July 1, 1952.
- Youth Sportsman’s License: $15 for ages 15 and under.
- Disability & One-Time Veteran Licenses: Discounted options available.
- Apprentice License: $5/day; allows adults to try hunting without education certification.
Non-Resident Licenses
- Hunting License: $100/year or $20/day + $6/day for additional days
- Sportsman’s License: $400/year; includes all privileges except alligator harvest
- Youth Sportsman’s License: $50/year for 15 and under
- Combo Hunting & Fishing License: $150/year or $30/day
Special Licenses & Permits
- Alligator Harvest Permit: Only required if drawn for quota hunt
- Big Game License: Required to hunt deer, turkey, bear
- Waterfowl Migratory Bird License: Required for dove, duck, goose (16+ only)
- Federal Duck Stamp: $29; required for duck/goose (16+ only)
Do You Need Deer Tags in Georgia?
Georgia doesn’t use physical tags. Instead, a free Harvest Record acts as your tagging system. You must log any deer harvest before moving the carcass — either on paper or through the Outdoors GA app. You must also report the harvest within 24 hours using Georgia Game Check.
Georgia Hunting Age Requirements
- Under 16: Can hunt under supervision. Optional Youth Sportsman’s License recommended.
- 16–64: Must have appropriate license and complete hunter education.
- 65+: Eligible for discounted licenses, including free lifetime options if born before July 1, 1952.
How to Purchase a GA Hunting License
You can get your Georgia hunting license in one of three ways:
1. Online
Visit GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com. This is the official portal where you can purchase, print, or store licenses digitally.
2. In-Person
Retailers like Bass Pro Shops, Walmart, and local bait shops often sell licenses. You can also visit a DNR regional office.
3. By Phone
Call 1-800-366-2661 to purchase via credit card.
GA Hunting License Rules for Landowners
Georgia landowners hunting on their own land — or on land owned by immediate family — do not need a hunting license. However, they still need:
- A Harvest Record (if hunting deer, turkey, alligator, bear)
- A Migratory Bird License (for dove, ducks, etc.)
- A Federal Duck Stamp (if hunting ducks/geese and 16+)
This exemption applies only to residents with official Georgia IDs showing their legal residence.
GA Hunting License Duration and Stacking Options
- Annual Licenses: Valid for 365 days from date of purchase.
- Short-Term Licenses: 1–11 consecutive days. Great for weekend hunts or out-of-state guests.
- Stacking: You can stack short-term licenses (e.g., a 1-day + 5-day) as long as they are purchased together.
Additional Considerations
- Trapping Licenses: Not included in any hunting license. Must be purchased separately.
- Saltwater Fishing: Requires a free SIP permit (valid for 12 months).
- Trout Fishing: Requires a paid Trout License if fishing for or possessing mountain trout.
Navigating Georgia’s hunting license options doesn’t have to be confusing. Whether you’re after deer in the northern forests or hogs in the southern swamps, there’s a license type that fits your need, budget, and timeline.
If you’re looking for a proven, off-grid solution to trapping feral hogs on your Georgia land, check out the hog trap in Georgia built specifically for tough terrain and solo setup.