If you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking to hunt in Pennsylvania, you’ll need to obtain a hunting license first. The process of getting a hunting license in Pennsylvania is straightforward and can be completed entirely online or via mail. In this article, we’ll explain the steps for obtaining your Pennsylvania hunting license so that you can hit the woods without delay!
Table of Contents
How Do I Get My State Hunting License?
To begin your hunting journey in Pennsylvania, the first step is to register with the official state Game Commission. You can do this either online or via mail by filling out a basic registration form and providing some identifying information, such as your name, address, and Social Security number.
After registering for the commission, take a hunter-trapper education course to finally acquire your hunting license. If any person aged 12 and over wishes to hunt in Pennsylvania, this course is an obligatory prerequisite. The course covers topics such as firearm safety, shooting skills, wildlife management, and conservation ethics. You can choose to take the course online or in person at a certified location. [1]
Types Of Pennsylvania Hunting Licenses
Pennsylvania hunters have the privilege of choosing from a selection of hunting licenses to suit their needs.
Pennsylvania Resident
If you are a local hunter, it is necessary to purchase either a general hunting license or an all-inclusive combination license that consists of both the general and furtaker’s licenses. With this option, you will be granted access to various hunting privileges. Also, residents must purchase a muzzleloader license, if they intend to hunt with a muzzleloading weapon. To be eligible for the resident hunting license, applicants must have resided in Pennsylvania for more than 30 days prior to applying for the license and provide proof of residency.
Non-Resident
If you plan to hunt in Pennsylvania but are not a resident of the state, you can still get a hunting license. Non-resident licenses can be purchased for both big and small games, depending on the season. To complete your application, you must present a valid driver’s license, Social Security number and proof of residence. You will also need to pay the non-resident licensing fee. Generally, the fee for non-residents is higher than that of state residents. Finally, don’t forget to finish a hunter education program prior to applying for your license. This will cover safety and conservation topics so that all hunters understand their responsibilities while hunting in Pennsylvania.
Youth Hunting License
For those between the ages of 12 and 17, Pennsylvania presents an excellent opportunity to obtain a junior hunting license. This special license grants the holder the same privileges as a regular license, but at a discounted rate. In order to be approved for the license, applicants must have a parent or guardian present and they must provide evidence of their completion of an accredited hunter safety program. In addition, applicants who are between the ages of 12 and 17 must then successfully pass a hunter education examination.
Senior Hunting License
Are you a resident of Pennsylvania and age 65 or older? If so, then apply now to get your senior hunting license! This hunting license grants you the right to hunt any type of game, such as deer, turkey, and bear. This license is available for an entire year from the date of purchase and can be renewed each 12 months. In order to get a senior hunting license, applicants must provide proof of age and residency. Acceptable forms of proof include a valid driver’s license, state-issued identification card, or birth certificate.
Disability License
Veterans and those with disabilities may qualify to be exempt from standard hunting license requirements. To be eligible to apply, you must submit an application to the Pennsylvania Game Commission along with proof of your disability. Depending on the type of disability you have, this could be a doctor’s certificate, a letter from the Veterans Administration or other supporting documentation. The state offers free lifetime hunting and fishing licenses for disabled veterans as well as reduced-price licenses for disabled nonveterans.
Military And Veteran License
Active duty military personnel and veterans residing in Pennsylvania are able to hunt without the need for a license, due to their exemption from this legal requirement. To obtain the exemption, you must present a valid military ID card or DD-214 discharge papers at the time of application. The exemption is only applicable if you are hunting on public land and you must comply with all other hunting regulations. You are also eligible for a reduced-cost archery deer permit, provided you present proof of active duty status. In addition, honorably discharged veterans can receive a reduced-cost permit if they present proof of service-connected disability.
Migratory Waterfowl Requirements
For those who want to hunt migratory waterfowl in Pennsylvania, the purchase of a Migratory Game Bird license is obligatory, along with meeting all other hunting license requirements. This additional license includes harvests of ducks, coots, geese, brant, mourning doves and woodcock. Whether you’re a Pennsylvania local or an out-of-state visitor, the migratory game bird license is currently priced at $6.90 – providing equal access to all! Easily acquire your hunting license through the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s website or visit a licensed agent in-person. In order to purchase the migratory game bird license, applicants must provide their name, address, date of birth and social security number. [2]
Where To Buy A Pennsylvania Hunting License
Once you have determined that you are eligible to obtain a hunting license in Pennsylvania, the next step is to purchase one. Hunting licenses can be acquired from the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s website, as well as any of its regional offices. Licenses can also be purchased at participating county treasurer’s offices, issuing agents, and through a Sportsman’s License Agent. To be eligible to purchase a license, all applicants must provide valid identification, as well as proof of residency. [3]
Common Reasons Applications Are Rejected
An important part of the application process for a hunting license in Pennsylvania is making sure that all requirements are met. Applicants who fail to meet all of the requirements or submit incomplete applications may have their applications rejected. Common reasons for rejecting an application include:
- Failure to submit all required documents
- Not providing proof of residency or identity
- Failure to pass the hunter safety course
- Providing false or incorrect information on the application
- An expired license or permit
- Having an outstanding debt to the Pennsylvania Game Commission
- Being under the age of 12, which is the minimum age for obtaining a hunting license in Pennsylvania
- Having a past criminal record related to hunting or firearms violation
- Not complying with the health requirements related to hunting in Pennsylvania [4]
FAQ
How do I get my first hunting license in PA?
In order to get your first hunting license in Pennsylvania, you must be at least 12 years old and demonstrate prior knowledge of the sport. To begin your hunting adventures, simply sign up for a hunter-trapper education course to become certified and receive your certification card. Upon finishing the course, you can purchase your license either on the web or at one of Pennsylvania Game Commission’s local offices. To finalize your purchase, you must present valid proof of residency, a legitimate form of identification, and the hunter-trapper education card.
What do I need to purchase a PA hunting license?
In order to hunt in Pennsylvania, you must be at least 12 years old and obtain a valid hunting license. As a prerequisite, you must furnish evidence of your residency status and present a valid photo ID. In order to successfully pass the state-mandated Hunter Safety Course, you must show evidence that a hunter education course was completed or provide your Hunter-Trapper Education Number given by the Pennsylvania Game Commission. In addition, passing a background check and covering the appropriate licensing fee is essential for acquiring your license.
How much does a hunting license cost in PA?
The fee of a hunting license in Pennsylvania is contingent on the kind of permit required. Depending on your age, residency status and other factors, you may be eligible for a reduced fee. For example, senior citizens (65 years and older) can purchase an annual license for $13.90, while junior hunters (ages 12-16) can purchase an annual license for $6.90. Nonresidents can expect to pay a higher fee for their license.In addition to the cost of a hunting license, you may be required to purchase additional permits and tags depending on the type of hunting you plan to do.
Can I get a PA hunting license online?
It’s simple – obtain a Pennsylvania hunting license online in no time through the PA Game Commission website. To purchase a license, you will need to create an account, enter your personal information, as well as provide proof of residency. If you are a minor, your parent or guardian must sign off on your application in order for it to be valid. Once you have completed the application, you will be able to print out a copy of your license and take it with you when you go hunting.
Who can hunt without a license in PA?
In Pennsylvania, certain people are exempt from needing to purchase a hunting license. This includes:
- Active duty members of the United States Armed Forces or the Pennsylvania National Guard while on duty or on leave;
- Full-time students enrolled in a state-approved hunter training program and under the direct supervision of an adult hunter;
- Residents and nonresidents who are legally blind;
- Licensed Pennsylvania foster parents and their dependent children, when accompanied by the foster parent;
- Resident landowners and their adult children, while hunting on land they own or lease;
- Residents of Pennsylvania who are 65 years or older.
Can non-residents apply for PA elk tag?
Yes, non-residents of Pennsylvania can apply for a PA elk tag. However, they are only available to those who have held a valid Pennsylvania hunting license for the past three consecutive years. The application period is from June 1st to August 31st each year and the fee of $10.90 must be paid at the time of application.
Can you get a PA hunting license without taking the safety course?
No, all first-time hunters in Pennsylvania are required to take a two-hour hunter safety course before they can purchase their hunting license. The course is offered by the Pennsylvania Game Commission and covers topics such as firearms safety, hunting regulations, hunter responsibility, wildlife identification, and more. After completing the course, a student will be presented with their Hunter-Trapper Education Certification card. This is needed to purchase a hunting license.
How much is a deer license in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, the cost of a hunting license varies depending on the type of license you are purchasing and your residency status. For residents of Pennsylvania, a general hunting license costs $20.90, while non-residents must pay $101.90 for the same license. A deer hunting license for residents of Pennsylvania is $26.90, while non-residents must pay $141.90 for a deer license. In addition to the base license fee, there is an additional fee for a permit for antlered deer. This fee is $13.90 for residents and $26.90 for non-residents.
Is PA a good hunting state?
Absolutely! Pennsylvania is one of the best states in the country for hunting, with plenty of wide open spaces, rugged terrain and abundant wildlife. It has been a popular spot for hunters since colonial times, and today it’s home to a variety of large game species including white-tailed deer, black bear, wild turkey and elk. Hunting licenses in Pennsylvania are relatively easy to obtain, and there are a variety of options depending on the type of hunting you plan to do.
Useful Video: How To Purchase A Pennsylvania Hunting License Online
Conclusion
Hunting is a popular activity in Pennsylvania and getting a hunting license can open up many opportunities for outdoor recreation. The process of obtaining the proper hunting license varies between states but, in Pennsylvania, acquiring a hunting license is relatively straightforward. In order to hunt legally in Pennsylvania, you must complete an approved hunter-safety course if required by your county, purchase a hunting license, and obtain permission from the applicable landowner.
References:
- https://www.ydr.com/story/life/2017/08/24/how/595130001/
- https://www.hunter-ed.com/pennsylvania/hunting_license/
- https://www.huntingsmart.com/pennsylvania/hunting-regulations/
- https://www.buckscounty.gov/369/Hunting-Fishing-Licenses