Colorado Hunting & Fishing Licenses
Complete guide to Colorado hunting and fishing licenses for 2026. Get current prices, purchase online, and learn about CPW's digital license requirements.
Quick Facts
Digital License
Accepted
License Year
March 1 - March 31 (following year)
Agency
CPW
Draw System
preference
HIP Required
Migratory birds
Last updated: January 29, 2026
Colorado License Pricing
Compare resident and non-resident prices for hunting and fishing licenses.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Hunting Base hunting license (required before purchasing any tags) | $36.68 | $101.54 |
| Resident Fishing Annual fishing license | $42.91 | $120.25 |
| Combo (Hunt/Fish) Resident combination license | $61.62 | N/A |
| Deer Tag Varies by unit and method; limited tags require draw | $46.00 | $411.00 |
| Elk Tag Premier destination for elk; OTC archery available in some units | $61.00 | $711.00 |
Prices are for annual licenses unless otherwise noted. Additional stamps and endorsements may be required.
myColorado
Digital licenses available through myColorado app. Colorado has solid digital infrastructure.
Proprietary state system. myColorado app also provides driver's license and state ID.
Hunter Passport
All your licenses, one app
Tired of managing multiple state apps? Hunter Passport stores all your Colorado licenses alongside every other state - and works completely offline.
- Works offline - no signal needed
- Supports all 50 states
- Quick Display for game wardens
Store up to 2 licenses free. Unlimited with Premium.
Hunter Passport is not affiliated with or endorsed by any state wildlife agency.
Colorado Tag Draws & Lotteries
preference Point System
Applicants with the most points are guaranteed to draw before those with fewer points.
Point banking: Allowed - you can skip years without losing points
Draw Species
Application Deadline
Early April (primary draw)
Results Announced
Late May/Early June
Complex preference point system. Some OTC archery elk available. Non-residents have tag quotas per unit.
Colorado Hunting Quirks & Tips
Unique rules and insider knowledge for hunting and fishing in Colorado.
March License Year
importantColorado uses March 1 to March 31 (following year) as its license year - unusual timing that catches many hunters off guard.
OTC Archery Elk Paradise
importantColorado offers over-the-counter archery elk tags in many units. One of the few western states where you can simply buy a tag and go hunt elk.
Preference Point System
infoColorado uses a weighted preference point system. Points cost $50/species/year for non-residents. Consider point-only applications if not ready to draw.
High Non-Resident Tag Costs
criticalNon-resident elk tags at $711 and deer at $411 add up quickly. Budget for the full cost including license, habitat stamp, and preference points.
Habitat Stamp Required
infoA $10 habitat stamp is required for all hunters and anglers. Revenue funds wildlife habitat preservation.
Hunting Tools for Colorado
Free calculators and planning tools to help you hunt smarter in Colorado.
Legal Shooting Hours
Calculate legal hunting start and end times based on sunrise/sunset
Hunting License Cost
Compare hunting and fishing license costs for Colorado and residency
Hunter Education
Find hunter education requirements, exemptions, and course providers for Colorado
Hunting Season Dates
Find hunting season dates for Colorado, species, and weapon type
Bag Limit & Size Limit
Find daily, possession, and size limits for Colorado and species
Colorado Hunting & Fishing FAQ
How much does a Colorado hunting license cost?
The base resident hunting license costs $36.68, while non-residents pay $101.54. Note this is just the hunting license - you'll also need to purchase species tags separately (elk tags are $61 resident, $711 non-resident).
Can I buy over-the-counter elk tags in Colorado?
Yes! Colorado is famous for offering OTC archery elk tags in many units. These are unlimited and can be purchased by anyone with a valid hunting license. Rifle elk tags for most units require the draw.
How do Colorado preference points work?
Colorado uses weighted preference points for limited tags. Each point increases your odds in the draw. Points cost $50/species for non-residents. You can apply for points only if you don't want to draw that year.
When does the Colorado hunting license expire?
Colorado hunting licenses run from March 1 through March 31 of the following year. This 13-month period is unique among western states.
What additional stamps or permits do I need in Colorado?
All hunters and anglers need a $10 Colorado Habitat Stamp in addition to their license. Waterfowl hunters also need HIP certification (free) and a federal duck stamp ($25).
Store Your Colorado License in Hunter Passport
Keep your Colorado hunting and fishing licenses alongside all your other states. Works offline, displays instantly, never fumble for paper again.