Minnesota Hunting & Fishing Licenses
Complete guide to Minnesota hunting and fishing licenses for 2026. Get current prices, purchase online, and learn about MN DNR's digital license requirements.
Quick Facts
Digital License
Accepted
License Year
March 1 - February 28/29
Agency
MN DNR
Draw System
random
HIP Required
Migratory birds
Last updated: January 29, 2026
Minnesota License Pricing
Compare resident and non-resident prices for hunting and fishing licenses.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Small Game Small game hunting license | $22.00 | $104.00 |
| Resident Fishing Annual fishing license | $25.00 | $51.00 |
| Sports License Combination small game hunting and fishing | $40.00 | N/A |
| Deer License Firearm deer license | $34.00 | $165.00 |
Prices are for annual licenses unless otherwise noted. Additional stamps and endorsements may be required.
MN DNR Web
Digital licenses available through MN DNR online system and can be stored on mobile devices.
Aspira-powered licensing system
Hunter Passport
All your licenses, one app
Tired of managing multiple state apps? Hunter Passport stores all your Minnesota 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.
Minnesota Tag Draws & Lotteries
random Point System
All applicants have equal odds regardless of previous applications.
Draw Species
Application Deadline
Varies by species
Most deer hunting is over-the-counter. Moose and elk require lottery application.
Minnesota Hunting Quirks & Tips
Unique rules and insider knowledge for hunting and fishing in Minnesota.
Moose Lottery Opportunity
importantMinnesota offers one of the few moose hunting opportunities in the lower 48 through a highly competitive lottery.
Walleye Paradise
infoMinnesota is world-famous for walleye fishing with over 11,000 lakes. Fishing licenses are a must-have.
Zone-Based Deer Management
importantMinnesota uses a complex zone system for deer hunting with different regulations, seasons, and tag availability.
March License Year
infoLicenses run March to February, so renew before spring turkey season.
Hunting Tools for Minnesota
Free calculators and planning tools to help you hunt smarter in Minnesota.
Legal Shooting Hours
Calculate legal hunting start and end times based on sunrise/sunset
Hunting License Cost
Compare hunting and fishing license costs for Minnesota and residency
Hunter Education
Find hunter education requirements, exemptions, and course providers for Minnesota
Hunting Season Dates
Find hunting season dates for Minnesota, species, and weapon type
Bag Limit & Size Limit
Find daily, possession, and size limits for Minnesota and species
Minnesota Hunting & Fishing FAQ
How much does a Minnesota hunting license cost?
Resident small game licenses cost $22, while non-residents pay $104. Deer licenses are $34 resident, $165 non-resident.
Does Minnesota accept digital hunting licenses?
Yes, Minnesota accepts digital licenses that can be stored on your mobile device after purchase through the MN DNR system.
Can I hunt moose in Minnesota?
Yes, Minnesota offers moose hunting through a highly competitive lottery system. It's one of the few lower 48 states with moose hunting opportunities.
When does the Minnesota hunting license expire?
Minnesota hunting licenses run from March 1 through February 28/29 of the following year.
Do I need a fishing license in Minnesota?
Yes, anglers 16 and older need a fishing license. Minnesota is famous for walleye fishing with over 11,000 lakes to explore.
Store Your Minnesota License in Hunter Passport
Keep your Minnesota hunting and fishing licenses alongside all your other states. Works offline, displays instantly, never fumble for paper again.