Illinois Hunting & Fishing Licenses
Complete guide to Illinois hunting and fishing licenses for 2026. Get current prices, purchase online, and learn about IDNR's digital license requirements.
Quick Facts
Digital License
Accepted
License Year
January 1 - December 31
Agency
IDNR
HIP Required
Migratory birds
Last updated: January 29, 2026
Illinois License Pricing
Compare resident and non-resident prices for hunting and fishing licenses.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Hunting Annual hunting license - extremely affordable | $12.00 | $57.00 |
| Resident Fishing Annual fishing license | $15.00 | $31.50 |
| Sportsman Combo Combination hunting and fishing license | $28.00 | N/A |
| Deer Permit Either-sex deer permit | $25.00 | $300.00 |
Prices are for annual licenses unless otherwise noted. Additional stamps and endorsements may be required.
IDNR Web
Digital licenses available through Illinois DNR online system.
State-operated online licensing system
Hunter Passport
All your licenses, one app
Tired of managing multiple state apps? Hunter Passport stores all your Illinois 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.
Illinois Hunting Quirks & Tips
Unique rules and insider knowledge for hunting and fishing in Illinois.
One of the Cheapest Non-Resident Licenses
importantAt $57, Illinois offers the second-cheapest non-resident hunting license in the nation, behind only Rhode Island.
Trophy Whitetail Potential
infoIllinois produces trophy whitetails despite its affordable licenses. Southern Illinois counties are particularly productive.
Shotgun/Slug Only for Deer
criticalRifles are not legal for deer hunting in Illinois. Shotguns with slugs, muzzleloaders, and archery equipment only.
County-Based Permits
importantFirearm deer permits are county-specific. Non-resident permits are limited in many counties.
Hunting Tools for Illinois
Free calculators and planning tools to help you hunt smarter in Illinois.
Legal Shooting Hours
Calculate legal hunting start and end times based on sunrise/sunset
Hunting License Cost
Compare hunting and fishing license costs for Illinois and residency
Hunter Education
Find hunter education requirements, exemptions, and course providers for Illinois
Hunting Season Dates
Find hunting season dates for Illinois, species, and weapon type
Bag Limit & Size Limit
Find daily, possession, and size limits for Illinois and species
Illinois Hunting & Fishing FAQ
How much does an Illinois hunting license cost?
Resident hunting licenses cost just $12, while non-residents pay $57 - making Illinois the second-cheapest state for non-resident hunting.
Does Illinois accept digital hunting licenses?
Yes, Illinois accepts digital licenses purchased through the IDNR online system.
Can I use a rifle for deer hunting in Illinois?
No, rifles are not legal for deer hunting in Illinois. You must use shotguns with slugs, muzzleloaders, or archery equipment.
When does the Illinois hunting license expire?
Illinois uses calendar year licenses, valid from January 1 through December 31.
Is Illinois good for whitetail hunting?
Yes, Illinois produces trophy whitetails, especially in southern counties. The affordable licenses and quality deer make it a great value.
Store Your Illinois License in Hunter Passport
Keep your Illinois hunting and fishing licenses alongside all your other states. Works offline, displays instantly, never fumble for paper again.