Texas offers non-resident hunters the opportunity to experience its diverse wildlife and vast hunting grounds. Non-resident hunting licenses in Texas are available for various game species and durations, with prices ranging from $48 for a single-day license to $315 for an annual all-inclusive package. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) manages these licenses and provides detailed information on their website.

To obtain a non-resident hunting license in Texas, hunters must meet specific requirements. These include proof of hunter education for those born on or after September 2, 1971, and compliance with state regulations. The TPWD website offers a user-friendly platform for purchasing licenses online, making it convenient for out-of-state hunters to secure their permits before traveling to Texas.

Non-resident hunters can choose from a variety of license options tailored to their needs. These include general hunting licenses, as well as special permits for deer, turkey, and exotic animals. Additional endorsements may be required for certain species or hunting methods. The TPWD also provides information on public hunting opportunities and leases, allowing non-residents to plan their Texas hunting adventures effectively.

Eligibility and Requirements

Non-resident hunters must meet specific criteria to obtain a Texas hunting license. Age, residency status, and military service affect eligibility and license options.

Proof of Residency

Non-residents must provide valid identification when purchasing a Texas hunting license. Acceptable forms include a driver’s license or state-issued ID from another state. Those without a U.S. driver’s license can use a passport or other government-issued photo ID.

Residents of Mexico have a unique option. They can purchase a combination permit that includes hunting, fishing, and boating privileges.

Age-based Licenses

Texas offers different license types based on the hunter’s age. Non-residents under 17 are considered residents for licensing purposes. They can purchase a youth hunting license at a reduced cost.

Adults 16 and older must obtain a Non-resident General Hunting License. This license is valid for hunting any legal bird or animal, including deer. Specific endorsements may be required for certain game species.

Active Duty Military and Veteran Options

Active duty military personnel and veterans have special license options. The Texas Resident Active Duty Military Hunting Package is available to non-resident service members stationed in Texas.

Disabled veterans may qualify for the Disabled Veteran Super Combo license. This option offers significant cost savings and includes most stamps and endorsements.

Non-resident military members should check current regulations, as benefits and eligibility can change. Proof of service or disability status is required to access these special license types.

Types of Non-Resident Licenses

Texas offers several hunting license options for non-residents. These licenses cater to different needs and allow hunters to pursue various game species across the state.

General Non-Resident Hunting License

The Non-Resident General Hunting License is the most comprehensive option for out-of-state hunters. It covers a wide range of game animals and birds. This license costs $315 for adults 16 years and older.

Youth hunters under 16 can obtain a discounted license for $7. The general license is valid from the date of purchase until August 31 of the following year.

Hunters with this license can pursue deer, turkey, quail, dove, and other game species during their respective seasons. Additional stamps or permits may be required for certain species or hunting methods.

Specialized Non-Resident Licenses

Texas also offers specialized licenses for non-residents targeting specific game or seasons. The Non-Resident Spring Turkey License allows hunters to pursue Rio Grande turkeys during the spring season. It costs $126 and is valid for the entire spring turkey season.

For waterfowl enthusiasts, the Non-Resident Banded Bird Hunting License is available. This license covers ducks, geese, and other migratory game birds. It’s priced at $86 and requires an additional Federal Duck Stamp.

Non-residents can also purchase a 5-Day Special Hunting License for $48. This short-term option is ideal for brief hunting trips and covers most game species except deer and turkey.

License Endorsements and Permits

Texas non-resident hunters need specific endorsements and permits in addition to their basic hunting license. These requirements vary based on the game species and hunting locations.

Endorsements for Specific Game

The Migratory Game Bird Endorsement is mandatory for hunting doves, waterfowl, and other migratory birds. It costs $25 for non-residents. Hunters pursuing quail, pheasant, or chachalaca must obtain the $10 Upland Game Bird Endorsement.

For reptile and amphibian enthusiasts, the $15 Reptile and Amphibian Endorsement is necessary. Bow hunters require the $25 Archery Hunting Endorsement during archery-only seasons.

HIP Certification is free but required for migratory bird hunters. The Federal Duck Stamp, priced at $25, is essential for waterfowl hunting.

Federal and Public Hunting Permits

Non-residents hunting on public lands need a $48 Annual Public Hunting Permit. This grants access to over 1 million acres of land.

For hunting in state parks, a State Park Standby Hunting Permit may be required. Availability and prices vary by location.

Sandhill crane hunters must obtain a free Federal Sandhill Crane Permit. It’s available online or through license agents.

These permits ensure proper management and conservation of wildlife resources while providing diverse hunting opportunities for non-residents in Texas.

Combination Packages and Lifetime Licenses

Texas offers diverse licensing options for hunters, including combination packages and lifetime licenses. These provide flexibility and potential savings for residents who enjoy multiple outdoor activities.

Resident Combination Options

The Super Combo package is a popular choice for Texas residents who hunt and fish. It includes a hunting license, fishing license, and five state endorsements at a discounted price. This package can save purchasers up to $18 compared to buying each license separately.

The Super Combo includes:

• Resident hunting license
• Resident fishing license (freshwater and saltwater)
• Archery endorsement
• Migratory game bird endorsement
• Upland game bird endorsement
• Saltwater fishing endorsement
• Freshwater fishing endorsement

For those with more specific needs, Texas also offers other combination packages tailored to different activities and preferences.

Lifetime License Opportunities

Texas Parks & Wildlife Department provides lifetime licenses for residents. These one-time purchases grant hunting and fishing privileges for life, eliminating the need for annual renewals.

Options include:

• Lifetime Resident Hunting License
• Lifetime Resident Fishing License
• Lifetime Combo License (hunting and fishing)

Lifetime licenses can only be processed at Law Enforcement offices or TPWD Austin Headquarters. Applicants can download a PDF application or call TPWD at (800) 792-1112 for more information.

Non-resident military personnel, their dependents, and non-resident individuals under 17 years of age are not eligible for lifetime licenses in Texas.

Educational Requirements and Resources

Texas has specific educational requirements for non-resident hunters to ensure safety and ethical practices. These include mandatory hunter education courses and additional specialized training for certain hunting activities.

Hunter Education

Non-resident hunters born on or after September 2, 1971, must complete a hunter education course before obtaining a Texas hunting license. The course covers firearm safety, wildlife conservation, and hunting laws.

Hunters can fulfill this requirement through in-person classes or online courses. In-person courses cost $15 and are available for ages 9 and up. Online options offer more flexibility but may have varying costs.

Those under 17 can hunt under the supervision of a licensed adult who meets education requirements or is exempt. Hunters born before September 2, 1971, are exempt from mandatory hunter education.

Additional Training and Endorsements

Some hunting activities in Texas require extra certifications or endorsements. Bowhunters might benefit from specialized bowhunter education courses, though these are not mandatory in Texas.

For certain game species or hunting methods, hunters may need to purchase additional endorsements with their license. These can include upland game bird, migratory game bird, or archery endorsements.

Non-residents should check specific requirements for their intended hunting activities. The Texas Parks & Wildlife Department offers resources and information on required endorsements and any associated training.

Fishing Licenses and Endorsements

Texas offers various fishing licenses and endorsements for non-residents. These options cater to different angling preferences and durations of stay, ensuring visitors can enjoy the state’s diverse aquatic resources legally.

Non-Resident Fishing Options

Non-residents have several fishing license choices in Texas. The One-Day All-Water license is ideal for short trips, while longer stays may warrant a 3-Day All-Water or Year-from-Purchase All-Water license. Freshwater and saltwater-specific packages are also available.

Each license requires appropriate endorsements. The Freshwater Fishing Package covers inland waters, while the Saltwater Fishing Package is for coastal areas. The All-Water Fishing Package combines both, allowing anglers to fish in any public Texas waters.

A Saltwater Sportfishing Endorsement is mandatory for fishing in coastal waters. This endorsement helps fund conservation efforts for saltwater fisheries.

Combination Hunting and Fishing Packages

Non-residents can opt for combination packages that include both hunting and fishing privileges. These packages offer convenience and potential cost savings for those interested in both activities.

The Non-Resident Combination Hunting and Fishing license grants full hunting and fishing rights across Texas. It includes necessary endorsements for freshwater and saltwater fishing.

Special packages exist for residents of neighboring states who own property in Texas. These “Non-Resident 5-Day Special” licenses provide limited hunting and all-water fishing privileges.

Visitors should note that additional stamps or endorsements may be required for specific game animals or fishing activities. It’s crucial to review current regulations before purchasing.

Hunting Opportunities and Wildlife Management

Texas offers diverse hunting experiences through public lands, private leases, and wildlife management programs. These options cater to both resident and non-resident hunters seeking various game species across the state’s varied landscapes.

Public Hunting Lands

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) manages over 1 million acres of public hunting lands. These areas include wildlife management areas, state parks, and leased private lands.

Hunters can access these lands through the Annual Public Hunting (APH) Permit. The permit costs $48 for residents and non-residents alike.

Public hunting lands offer opportunities for big game, small game, and waterfowl. Popular species include white-tailed deer, feral hogs, and turkey.

Some areas require additional permits or drawings for specific hunts. TPWD’s website provides detailed information on available hunts and application processes.

Hunting Lease Information

Private hunting leases are a popular option in Texas. Landowners can lease their property to hunters for a fee.

Lease types vary from day hunts to season-long arrangements. Prices depend on factors like acreage, game abundance, and amenities provided.

Landowners offering leases must obtain a Hunting Lease License from TPWD. Three types are available:

• Small: 1-499 acres
• Medium: 500-999 acres
• Large: 1,000+ acres

Hunters should carefully review lease agreements and understand their responsibilities before signing.

Wildlife Management Programs

TPWD implements various wildlife management programs to enhance hunting opportunities and conservation efforts.

The Managed Lands Deer Program (MLDP) is a key initiative. It allows landowners to work with biologists to improve habitat and manage deer populations.

MLDP participants can receive extended hunting seasons and increased harvest limits. This program benefits both wildlife and hunters.

Other programs focus on specific species like quail, turkey, and pronghorn. These efforts aim to maintain healthy wildlife populations and sustainable hunting practices.

Hunters can contribute to conservation through the purchase of licenses and stamps. These funds support habitat restoration and wildlife research projects across Texas.

Special Hunts and Drawings

Texas offers unique hunting opportunities through special programs and drawings. These provide both residents and non-residents access to prime hunting locations and sought-after game species.

Managed Hunt Opportunities

The Texas Public Hunt Drawing System grants access to supervised hunts on state-managed lands and leased properties. Hunters can apply for a variety of experiences, including white-tailed deer, mule deer, pronghorn, and bighorn sheep hunts. Youth hunters have dedicated drawings to encourage participation.

Applications are open to Texas residents, U.S. residents, and non-residents. The system uses a lottery-style draw to ensure fair distribution of hunting permits. Successful applicants must purchase the appropriate hunting license and any required endorsements.

Big Time Texas Hunts Program

This program offers premium hunting packages through separate drawings. Hunters can enter multiple drawings for a chance to win exclusive experiences.

The Texas Grand Slam Drawing includes four separate hunts for bighorn sheep, desert mule deer, white-tailed deer, and pronghorn. The Texas Ultimate Mule Deer Hunt provides access to prime mule deer territory.

Other exciting opportunities include the Texas Whitetail Bonanza, Texas Waterfowl Adventure, and Texas Gator Hunt. The Texas Exotic Safari allows winners to pursue non-native species on private ranches.

Entry fees for these drawings support wildlife conservation efforts across the state.

Regulations and Unlawful Activities

Texas enforces strict regulations for non-resident hunters. All non-residents must purchase a valid Texas hunting license before engaging in any hunting activities.

License fees vary based on the type and duration. A 5-day non-resident special hunting license costs $48, while a general non-resident hunting license is $315.

Non-residents must also obtain appropriate endorsements for specific game animals. These include upland game bird, migratory game bird, and archery endorsements.

It is unlawful for non-residents to hunt without landowner consent. Hunters must carry personal identification and their hunting license at all times while in the field.

Waste of game is prohibited. Hunters must retrieve and keep edible portions of harvested animals.

Using firearms to hunt from public roads is illegal. Non-residents cannot possess both a general hunting license and a special hunting license simultaneously.

Civil restitution may be required for unlawfully taking or possessing wildlife. Fines and penalties vary based on the severity of the violation.

Non-residents must comply with bag limits, hunting seasons, and weapon restrictions for each species. Hunting endangered or protected species is strictly forbidden without proper permits.

Contact and Support

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) offers multiple channels for non-resident hunters to get assistance with hunting licenses and related inquiries. Hunters can reach out to TPWD offices directly or access online resources for support.

TPWD Offices and Contact Information

TPWD maintains a network of offices across Texas to serve hunters. The main headquarters in Austin can be reached at (512) 389-4800 or (800) 792-1112. For licensing questions, hunters should select menu option 5, then 1.

Field offices are located in various regions. These offices provide local support and information on hunting regulations specific to their areas.

TPWD’s Public Hunting Program can be contacted at (512) 389-4505 for information about leasing land or public hunting opportunities.

Online Resources and Assistance

The TPWD website (tpwd.texas.gov) is a comprehensive resource for non-resident hunters. It offers detailed information on license types, fees, and purchasing options.

An online chat feature is available during business hours for real-time assistance. The site also provides downloadable hunting guides and regulations.

TPWD maintains active social media accounts where hunters can find updates and ask questions. These platforms include Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Email inquiries can be sent through the website’s contact form. TPWD typically responds within 1-2 business days.