North Dakota Hunting & Fishing Licenses
Complete guide to North Dakota hunting and fishing licenses for 2026. Get current prices, purchase online, and learn about NDGF's digital license requirements.
Quick Facts
Digital License
Accepted
License Year
April 1 - March 31
Agency
NDGF
Draw System
bonus
HIP Required
Migratory birds
Last updated: January 29, 2026
North Dakota License Pricing
Compare resident and non-resident prices for hunting and fishing licenses.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Small Game General game and habitat license combo | $20.00 | $150.00 |
| Resident Fishing Annual fishing license | $17.00 | $49.00 |
| Deer (Lottery) Deer licenses are lottery only | $30.00 | $350.00 |
Prices are for annual licenses unless otherwise noted. Additional stamps and endorsements may be required.
My NDGF
Digital licenses available through My NDGF account and app.
State-operated licensing system
Hunter Passport
All your licenses, one app
Tired of managing multiple state apps? Hunter Passport stores all your North Dakota 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.
North Dakota Tag Draws & Lotteries
bonus Point System
Points improve your odds but don't guarantee a tag. More points = better odds in the random draw.
Draw Species
Application Deadline
Varies by species
Bonus points are cubed after 4 years. Unique system where accumulated points dramatically increase odds.
North Dakota Hunting Quirks & Tips
Unique rules and insider knowledge for hunting and fishing in North Dakota.
2025 Fee Restructuring
importantNorth Dakota restructured license fees in 2025. Resident small game dropped to $20, non-resident small game to $150, while non-resident deer increased to $350.
Cubed Bonus Points
criticalNorth Dakota's bonus point system cubes your points after 4 years. Example: 5 points = 125 chances (5x5x5). Patience is rewarded.
Lottery-Only Deer
criticalAll deer licenses in North Dakota require lottery application. No over-the-counter options even for residents.
Premier Waterfowl Destination
importantNorth Dakota is arguably the best waterfowl hunting state in the nation. The prairie pothole region is duck heaven.
Non-Resident Caps
importantNon-resident licenses are capped in many categories. Apply early and have a backup plan.
Hunting Tools for North Dakota
Free calculators and planning tools to help you hunt smarter in North Dakota.
Legal Shooting Hours
Calculate legal hunting start and end times based on sunrise/sunset
Hunting License Cost
Compare hunting and fishing license costs for North Dakota and residency
Hunter Education
Find hunter education requirements, exemptions, and course providers for North Dakota
Hunting Season Dates
Find hunting season dates for North Dakota, species, and weapon type
Bag Limit & Size Limit
Find daily, possession, and size limits for North Dakota and species
North Dakota Hunting & Fishing FAQ
How much does a North Dakota hunting license cost?
Following 2025 fee restructuring, resident small game/habitat combo costs $20, while non-residents pay $150. Deer licenses require separate lottery application: $30 resident, $350 non-resident.
Does North Dakota accept digital hunting licenses?
Yes, North Dakota accepts digital licenses through the My NDGF system.
Can I buy deer tags over-the-counter in North Dakota?
No, all deer licenses in North Dakota require lottery application, even for residents. Apply by the deadline or you won't hunt deer that year.
How do North Dakota bonus points work?
North Dakota cubes bonus points after 4 years. With 5 points, you get 125 chances (5x5x5). This system rewards patient applicants.
Is North Dakota good for waterfowl hunting?
Yes, North Dakota is considered one of the premier waterfowl destinations in North America thanks to the prairie pothole region.
Did North Dakota change its license fees?
Yes, North Dakota restructured fees in 2025. Small game became more affordable ($20 resident, $150 non-resident), while non-resident deer permits increased to $350.
Store Your North Dakota License in Hunter Passport
Keep your North Dakota hunting and fishing licenses alongside all your other states. Works offline, displays instantly, never fumble for paper again.