New Mexico Hunting & Fishing Licenses
Complete guide to New Mexico hunting and fishing licenses for 2026. Get current prices, purchase online, and learn about NMDGF's digital license requirements.
Quick Facts
Digital License
Accepted
License Year
April 1 - March 31
Agency
NMDGF
Draw System
random
HIP Required
Migratory birds
Last updated: January 29, 2026
New Mexico License Pricing
Compare resident and non-resident prices for hunting and fishing licenses.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Game Hunting Basic game hunting license. Note: Additional increases coming April 2026 per Senate Bill 5. | $29.00 | $94.00 |
| Resident Fishing Annual fishing license | $25.00 | $56.00 |
| Elk Tag Elk licenses require draw | $47.00 | $563.00 |
Prices are for annual licenses unless otherwise noted. Additional stamps and endorsements may be required.
NMDGF Online
Digital licenses available through New Mexico Game and Fish online system.
State-operated licensing and draw system
Hunter Passport
All your licenses, one app
Tired of managing multiple state apps? Hunter Passport stores all your New Mexico 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.
New Mexico Tag Draws & Lotteries
random Point System
All applicants have equal odds regardless of previous applications.
Draw Species
Application Deadline
March (most species)
Pure random draw - no preference points. Oryx and Ibex hunts on White Sands are unique opportunities.
New Mexico Hunting Quirks & Tips
Unique rules and insider knowledge for hunting and fishing in New Mexico.
Affordable Non-Resident License
importantAt $94, New Mexico still offers competitive non-resident hunting license pricing. Additional increases coming April 2026 per Senate Bill 5.
Pure Random Draw
importantNew Mexico uses pure random draw with no preference points. First-time applicants have the same odds as 20-year veterans.
Exotic Species Hunts
infoNew Mexico offers unique oryx and ibex hunting opportunities on White Sands. These exotic species draws are highly sought after.
50% Military Discount
importantActive military personnel receive 50% discount on New Mexico licenses. One of the best military discounts available.
Hunting Tools for New Mexico
Free calculators and planning tools to help you hunt smarter in New Mexico.
Legal Shooting Hours
Calculate legal hunting start and end times based on sunrise/sunset
Hunting License Cost
Compare hunting and fishing license costs for New Mexico and residency
Hunter Education
Find hunter education requirements, exemptions, and course providers for New Mexico
Hunting Season Dates
Find hunting season dates for New Mexico, species, and weapon type
Bag Limit & Size Limit
Find daily, possession, and size limits for New Mexico and species
New Mexico Hunting & Fishing FAQ
How much does a New Mexico hunting license cost?
Resident game hunting licenses cost $29, while non-residents pay $94. Note: Additional fee increases are scheduled for April 2026 per Senate Bill 5.
Does New Mexico accept digital hunting licenses?
Yes, New Mexico accepts digital licenses through the NMDGF online system.
Does New Mexico have preference points?
No, New Mexico uses a pure random draw. Everyone has equal odds regardless of how many times they've applied.
Can I hunt oryx in New Mexico?
Yes, New Mexico offers oryx hunting on White Sands through a lottery system. It's one of the only places in North America to hunt this exotic species.
Is there a military discount for New Mexico hunting licenses?
Yes, active military personnel receive a 50% discount on New Mexico hunting licenses - one of the best military discounts in the country.
Store Your New Mexico License in Hunter Passport
Keep your New Mexico hunting and fishing licenses alongside all your other states. Works offline, displays instantly, never fumble for paper again.