Pennsylvania’s diverse wildlife and expansive hunting grounds attract sportsmen from across the country. Non-resident hunters seeking to pursue game in the Keystone State must obtain a valid Pennsylvania Non-Resident Hunting License. These licenses grant out-of-state hunters access to Pennsylvania’s rich hunting opportunities, including deer, turkey, and small game seasons.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission oversees the licensing process for non-resident hunters. Applicants can purchase their licenses online, through authorized issuing agents, or by mail. Fees for non-resident licenses are higher than those for Pennsylvania residents, reflecting the state’s commitment to wildlife conservation and habitat management.

Non-resident hunters should familiarize themselves with Pennsylvania’s hunting regulations before venturing into the field. The state offers various license types tailored to specific game and seasons, allowing hunters to choose options that best suit their interests and planned activities. By obtaining the proper license, out-of-state hunters can legally and responsibly participate in Pennsylvania’s storied hunting traditions.

Eligibility and Requirements

Non-resident hunters in Pennsylvania must meet specific criteria to obtain a hunting license. Age, residency status, and physical abilities influence eligibility and license types available.

Hunting License Overview

Non-resident hunters aged 12 and older can purchase a Pennsylvania hunting license. Proof of hunter education certification is required for first-time license buyers. Non-residents must provide a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license from their home state.

Licenses can be purchased online through the Pennsylvania Game Commission website or at authorized retailers. Non-resident licenses are typically more expensive than resident licenses.

A basic non-resident hunting license allows for hunting small game, furbearers, and fall turkey. Additional permits may be required for big game hunting, such as deer, bear, or elk.

Junior and Senior Hunting Licenses

Non-resident junior hunters between 12 and 16 years old qualify for discounted junior licenses. These licenses offer the same privileges as adult licenses at a reduced cost.

Junior hunters must be accompanied by a licensed adult hunter when in the field. The adult must remain within visual and verbal contact of the junior hunter at all times.

Non-resident senior hunters aged 65 and older can purchase senior licenses. These licenses are less expensive than standard adult licenses but provide the same hunting privileges.

Disability Provisions

Pennsylvania offers accommodations for non-resident hunters with disabilities. Hunters with certain physical limitations may qualify for special permits or exemptions.

Disabled veterans can obtain reduced-fee hunting licenses with proper documentation. Some disabilities may allow for the use of alternative hunting methods, such as crossbows during archery season.

Hunters with mobility impairments can apply for a Disabled Person Permit. This permit allows for vehicle-based hunting in designated areas.

Visually impaired hunters may be eligible for a Universal Disability Access Permit, which provides additional accommodations and assistance options while hunting.

Types of Non-Resident Licenses

Pennsylvania offers a variety of non-resident hunting licenses to accommodate different game pursuits and hunting seasons. These licenses range from general hunting privileges to specialized permits for specific species and hunting methods.

General and Add-On Licenses

Non-resident hunters can purchase a General Hunting License, which includes tags for antlered deer, fall turkey, and spring turkey, along with small game hunting privileges. This license serves as the foundation for hunting activities in Pennsylvania.

Add-on licenses expand hunting opportunities. These may include:

• Archery License
• Muzzleloader License
• Bear License

Each add-on license allows hunters to participate in specific seasons or use particular hunting methods.

Furtaker Licenses

Furtaker licenses are available for non-residents interested in trapping or hunting furbearing animals. This license covers:

• Coyotes
• Foxes
• Raccoons
• Opossums
• Skunks

Trappers must follow specific regulations regarding trap types, check times, and reporting requirements.

Antlerless Deer Licenses

Non-resident hunters can apply for antlerless deer licenses, which are allocated by Wildlife Management Unit (WMU). The application process typically begins in July, with specific dates for different WMUs.

Key points for antlerless deer licenses:

• Limited quantity available per WMU
• First-come, first-served basis
• Separate fee from the General Hunting License

Turkey and Migratory Game Bird Licenses

Non-residents pursuing turkeys or migratory game birds need additional licenses. The General Hunting License includes fall and spring turkey tags. For migratory birds, hunters must obtain:

• Federal Duck Stamp
• Pennsylvania Migratory Game Bird License

These licenses cover waterfowl, doves, woodcock, and other migratory species.

Combination Licenses

Pennsylvania offers combination licenses for non-residents seeking a comprehensive hunting package. These may include:

• General Hunting License
• Furtaker License
• Archery License
• Muzzleloader License

Combination licenses often provide cost savings compared to purchasing individual licenses. They’re ideal for non-residents planning extended hunting trips or pursuing multiple species.

How to Purchase a License

Non-residents can obtain a Pennsylvania hunting license through two main methods. Each option offers convenience and accessibility for out-of-state hunters looking to enjoy Pennsylvania’s diverse game opportunities.

Online Purchase via HuntFishPA

HuntFishPA is Pennsylvania’s official online licensing system. Non-residents can visit the HuntFishPA website to purchase their hunting license. The platform offers a user-friendly interface for selecting the desired license type.

Hunters must create an account or log in to an existing one. They’ll need to provide personal information and a valid form of identification. The system accepts major credit cards for payment.

Once the transaction is complete, hunters can print a temporary license. The official license will be mailed to the provided address within 7-10 business days.

In-Person at Issuing Agents

For those who prefer face-to-face interactions, Pennsylvania offers numerous issuing agents throughout the state. These include sporting goods stores, bait shops, and county treasurer offices.

Non-residents must bring a valid government-issued photo ID and proof of hunter education certification if applicable. The agent will process the application and collect the required fees.

Payment methods may vary by location, but most accept cash, check, or credit card. The advantage of this method is that hunters receive their physical license immediately.

Agents can also provide local hunting information and answer questions about regulations specific to the area.

Hunting Regulations and Compliance

Pennsylvania enforces strict hunting regulations to ensure wildlife conservation and hunter safety. Non-resident hunters must familiarize themselves with bag limits, firearm regulations, and reporting requirements before heading into the field.

Understanding Bag Limits

Bag limits in Pennsylvania vary by species and season. For deer, non-resident hunters are typically allowed one antlered deer per license year. Antlerless deer permits are available through a separate application process.

Turkey hunters can harvest one bird in the fall and one in the spring. Small game limits differ by species, with daily and possession limits in place.

Always check the current Pennsylvania Hunting & Trapping Digest for the most up-to-date bag limit information, as these can change annually based on wildlife population assessments.

Firearm and Harvest Tags Regulations

Non-resident hunters must comply with Pennsylvania’s firearm regulations. During firearms deer season, hunters must wear a minimum of 250 square inches of fluorescent orange material on the head, chest, and back combined.

Harvest tags are crucial for legal hunting. Each license comes with specific tags for different game species. Immediately upon harvest, the hunter must complete and attach the appropriate tag to the animal.

Muzzleloader privileges require an additional permit. Furtaker privileges are included in some license types but may require separate tags for certain species.

Harvest Information Program

The Harvest Information Program (HIP) is a federal requirement for migratory bird hunters. Non-resident hunters pursuing ducks, geese, doves, woodcock, or other migratory birds in Pennsylvania must register for HIP.

Registration is free and can be completed when purchasing a hunting license or through PA.Gov. HIP helps wildlife managers estimate harvest and hunter participation for better conservation efforts.

Migratory bird hunters must also possess a valid Federal Duck Stamp in addition to their Pennsylvania hunting license and HIP registration.

Special Licenses and Permits

Pennsylvania offers several specialized hunting licenses and permits to accommodate different groups and situations. These options cater to agricultural needs, military personnel, and unique hunting opportunities.

Agriculture Deer Control Permit

The Agriculture Deer Control Permit helps landowners manage deer populations on their property. Farmers can apply for this permit to protect crops and reduce deer-related damage.

Eligibility requires at least 50 acres of cultivated land. Permit holders can designate hunters to harvest antlerless deer outside regular seasons.

Hunters must carry written permission from the landowner while participating. Harvested deer don’t count towards regular season limits.

Military and Special Hunting Licenses

Pennsylvania honors its military personnel with special hunting license options. These include Resident Military, National Guard, and Reserves Hunting Licenses.

Active duty and discharged veterans can qualify for reduced fees. Proof of service is required when purchasing these licenses.

Benefits may include extended hunting periods and additional harvest tags. Some licenses combine multiple privileges, such as archery and muzzleloader.

Elk Applications and Licenses

Pennsylvania’s elk hunt is a highly sought-after opportunity. Hunters must apply for a chance to participate in the annual drawing.

Application periods typically open in May. Fees are non-refundable, even if not selected.

Successful applicants receive an elk license valid for a specific zone and season. Licenses are limited and highly competitive.

Hunters can choose between antlered and antlerless elk tags. Guided hunts may be available in certain areas.

Education and Safety

Pennsylvania prioritizes hunter education and safety for both residents and non-residents. The state requires completion of specific training before obtaining a hunting license.

Hunter-Trapper Education Course

Non-resident hunters in Pennsylvania must complete a Hunter-Trapper Education (HTE) course before purchasing their first hunting license. This mandatory course covers essential topics such as firearms safety, hunting ethics, wildlife conservation, and outdoor survival skills.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission offers both in-person and online HTE courses. In-person classes typically last 6-8 hours and include hands-on training. Online courses allow students to complete the majority of coursework at their own pace, followed by a brief field day for practical instruction.

Upon successful completion of the HTE course, non-resident hunters receive a certification card. This card is required when applying for a Pennsylvania hunting license. Some states have reciprocity agreements with Pennsylvania, allowing hunters to use their home state’s hunter education certification.

Residency Information

Pennsylvania has specific criteria for determining hunting license residency status. Residency affects license types, fees, and hunting privileges available to hunters in the state.

Determining Residency Status

To qualify as a Pennsylvania resident for hunting purposes, an individual must maintain a permanent home in the state for at least 30 consecutive days prior to applying for a license. Military personnel stationed in Pennsylvania and students attending school full-time in the state may also qualify for resident status.

Proof of residency may include a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license, voter registration card, or utility bills showing a Pennsylvania address. Non-residents include those who do not meet these criteria or maintain their primary residence in another state.

Resident vs Non-Resident Licenses

Pennsylvania offers different hunting license options for residents and non-residents. Resident licenses are typically less expensive and may provide additional privileges.

Resident options include:

• Resident Adult Hunting License
• Resident Junior Combination License
• Resident Senior Lifetime Hunting License
• Military Hunting License (for eligible personnel)

Non-resident hunters must purchase specific non-resident licenses, which often have higher fees. These licenses grant similar hunting rights but may have some restrictions compared to resident options.

Federal employees working in Pennsylvania may be eligible for resident licenses, depending on their specific circumstances and duration of stay in the state.

Seasons and Species

Pennsylvania offers diverse hunting opportunities throughout the year for non-resident hunters. The state’s game seasons cover a wide range of species across different regions and habitats.

Small Game Hunting

Non-resident hunters can pursue small game in Pennsylvania during designated seasons. Common small game species include squirrels, rabbits, and pheasants. Squirrel season typically runs from mid-September to late February. Rabbit hunting season generally starts in late October and extends through February.

Pheasant hunting is popular, with seasons varying by region. The Pennsylvania Game Commission stocks pheasants in many areas to enhance hunting opportunities. Grouse and woodcock are also available for hunters seeking upland game birds.

Small game hunting privileges are often included with a basic non-resident hunting license. Hunters should check specific dates and bag limits for each species, as they may change annually.

Deer and Turkey Hunting Seasons

Deer hunting is a major draw for non-resident hunters in Pennsylvania. The state offers both archery and firearms seasons for white-tailed deer. Archery season usually begins in early October and runs through mid-November. The regular firearms season for deer typically starts in late November or early December.

Turkey hunting seasons are divided into fall and spring. The fall turkey season generally occurs in October and November, with specific dates varying by Wildlife Management Unit. The spring turkey season is a highlight for many hunters, usually running from late April to late May.

Non-residents must purchase separate tags for deer and turkey hunting. These are in addition to the base hunting license.

Migratory Game Birds Seasons

Pennsylvania provides opportunities for hunting various migratory game birds. Waterfowl seasons include ducks, geese, and mergansers. These seasons are typically split into different zones with varying dates.

Duck season generally runs from October through January, depending on the zone. Goose hunting seasons can extend from September to April, with specific dates for Canada geese, snow geese, and other species.

Dove hunting is popular in early fall, with the season usually opening on September 1. Woodcock seasons typically occur in October and November.

Non-resident hunters must obtain a Pennsylvania migratory game bird license and a federal duck stamp for waterfowl hunting. Hunters should consult the current regulations for exact dates and bag limits.