Maryland Hunting & Fishing Licenses
Complete guide to Maryland hunting and fishing licenses for 2026. Get current prices, purchase online, and learn about DNR's digital license requirements.
Quick Facts
Digital License
Accepted
License Year
365 days - from purchase
Agency
DNR
Draw System
random
HIP Required
Migratory birds
Last updated: January 29, 2026
Maryland License Pricing
Compare resident and non-resident prices for hunting and fishing licenses.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Hunting Basic hunting license | $24.50 | $130.00 |
| Resident Fishing Freshwater and tidal sport fishing | $20.50 | $30.50 |
| Deer Stamp Required for deer hunting in addition to basic license | $10.00 | $38.00 |
| Sika Deer Stamp Required for sika deer hunting on Eastern Shore | $10.00 | $38.00 |
| Turkey Stamp Required for turkey hunting | $5.00 | $10.00 |
Prices are for annual licenses unless otherwise noted. Additional stamps and endorsements may be required.
MD Outdoors
Digital licenses accepted via MD Outdoors app. Compass portal also available.
MD Outdoors system now active. Compass portal still available.
Hunter Passport
All your licenses, one app
Tired of managing multiple state apps? Hunter Passport stores all your Maryland 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.
Maryland Tag Draws & Lotteries
random Point System
All applicants have equal odds regardless of previous applications.
Draw Species
Application Deadline
Varies by hunt
Maryland offers controlled hunt opportunities on public lands through lottery application.
Maryland Hunting Quirks & Tips
Unique rules and insider knowledge for hunting and fishing in Maryland.
365-Day License Validity
importantMaryland licenses are valid for 365 days from purchase date, not a fixed license year. Plan purchases strategically.
Sika Deer Opportunity
infoMaryland's Eastern Shore has a unique sika deer population - one of the few places in the US to hunt this Asian elk species.
Managed Hunt Lottery
infoMany public hunting areas require lottery application for controlled hunts. Apply early through Compass portal.
Hunting Tools for Maryland
Free calculators and planning tools to help you hunt smarter in Maryland.
Legal Shooting Hours
Calculate legal hunting start and end times based on sunrise/sunset
Hunting License Cost
Compare hunting and fishing license costs for Maryland and residency
Hunter Education
Find hunter education requirements, exemptions, and course providers for Maryland
Hunting Season Dates
Find hunting season dates for Maryland, species, and weapon type
Bag Limit & Size Limit
Find daily, possession, and size limits for Maryland and species
Maryland Hunting & Fishing FAQ
How much does a Maryland hunting license cost?
Maryland resident hunting licenses cost $24.50 for basic hunting. Non-residents pay $130. Additional stamps are required for deer ($10/$38) and turkey ($5/$10).
Does Maryland accept digital hunting licenses?
Yes, Maryland accepts digital licenses via the MD Outdoors app, which is now fully active.
When does the Maryland hunting license expire?
Maryland licenses are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase, not a fixed calendar year. Time your purchases accordingly.
What is a sika deer and can I hunt them in Maryland?
Sika deer are a small Asian elk species found on Maryland's Eastern Shore. You need a sika deer stamp ($10 resident, $38 non-resident) in addition to your basic hunting license and deer stamp.
Do I need HIP registration to hunt in Maryland?
Yes, HIP certification is required for hunting migratory game birds in Maryland. It's free and completed during license purchase.
Store Your Maryland License in Hunter Passport
Keep your Maryland hunting and fishing licenses alongside all your other states. Works offline, displays instantly, never fumble for paper again.