Michigan Hunting License Cost – Complete Guide with Calculator

Michigan Hunting License Cost Calculator

How to Use the Calculator Step by Step

You can use this calculator to estimate your hunting license costs in seconds. It gives you a clear breakdown of the Michigan base hunting license cost, extra permits, and other fees included in the Michigan DNR hunting license cost. Follow these steps:

1. Select your residency status: Choose resident, nonresident, or out-of-state. Residency affects hunting license cost in Michigan more than any other factor.
2. Pick your license type: Decide between base, deer, small game, waterfowl, or combo licenses. Each type has its own rules and price.
3. Add special permits: Include tags like bear, elk, antlerless deer, or fur harvester if they apply to your hunt.
4. Review discounts: Seniors, youth, and military may qualify for reduced or waived fees. Make sure to check if you fit in those groups.
5. Calculate your total: Hit the calculate button to see your full cost. You’ll also find a note on whether the base license is required for your selection.

Current Michigan Hunting License Costs (2025 Update)

Michigan hunting licenses are valid from March 1 through March 31 of the following year. Prices vary depending on whether you are a resident or nonresident, your age, and the type of game you plan to hunt. Below you’ll find the updated fees for 2025.

Base and Small Game Licenses

The Michigan base hunting license cost is the first expense for most hunters, since it’s required before you can purchase other permits.

• Resident base license: $11
• Nonresident base license: $151
• Junior license (under 17): $6
• Senior license (65+): $5
• Mentored youth license: $7.50
• Nonresident small game license: $50 (3-day) or $80 (7-day)

Deer Hunting License Costs

Deer hunting is the most popular activity in the state, and the Michigan deer hunting license cost depends on residency and license type.

• Resident deer license: $20
• Nonresident deer license: $20
• Senior deer license (65+): $8
• Resident deer combo (two tags): $40
• Nonresident deer combo: $190
• Senior deer combo: $28
• Antlerless or junior antlerless license: $20
• Deer managed area hunts: $20

Other Popular Hunting Licenses (Bear, Elk, Turkey, Waterfowl, Fur Harvester)

Hunters targeting larger or specialized species face additional permit fees:

• Bear license: $25 (plus $5 application and $15 participation tag)
• Elk license (residents only): $100 (application $5)
• Turkey license (spring/fall): $15; seniors pay $6
• Waterfowl license: $12, plus a $28 Federal Duck Stamp for hunters age 16+
• Fur harvester license: $15; seniors pay $6

Whether you’re checking the Michigan bear hunting license cost or the elk tag fee, it’s important to budget for both the license and the required applications.

Hunt/Fish Combo Licenses

For those who enjoy both sports, the state of Michigan hunting license cost can be combined with fishing privileges:

• Resident Hunt/Fish combo: $76 (includes base license, annual all-species fishing, and 2 deer tags)
• Senior resident combo: $43
• Nonresident combo: $266

This package is often the best value if you plan to hunt and fish throughout the year. It rolls multiple permits into a single purchase, streamlining the process through the Michigan DNR hunting license cost structure.

Factors That Influence the Cost of a Fishing License in Michigan

The fishing license in Michigan cost depends on several personal and regulatory factors. Your residency, age, and type of license all play a role in the final price you pay. Here are the main points that can change the total:

• Residency status: Residents pay lower rates, while the cost of out of state fishing license in Michigan is higher for nonresidents.
• Age and disability status: Seniors and legally blind residents qualify for discounted rates. Youth licenses are voluntary and cost only a few dollars.
• Daily vs. annual validity: A Michigan 1-day fishing license cost is much less than an annual permit, but frequent anglers usually save with yearly options.
• Military and veteran exemptions: Michigan residents on active duty and veterans with a 100% disability rating can have their fees waived.
• Sportcard requirement: Some licenses need a $1 DNR Sportcard, which is added to the overall michigan dnr fishing license cost.

Where to Buy Your Michigan Fishing License

You have several convenient options to purchase your license, making it simple to get started.

You can buy online through the official DNR portal, which provides instant access and the option to reprint your license if needed. Another choice is the Hunt Fish app, which lets you carry your license digitally on your phone.

If you prefer to purchase in person, licenses are available from local agents such as sporting goods stores and larger retailers.

Final Thoughts

Using the calculator on this page makes it easy to estimate your total fishing license cost before you pay. You can quickly compare daily, annual, and discounted options to see what fits best for your situation.

Always confirm prices and eligibility directly with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources before purchasing. This ensures you’re paying the correct fee and meeting state requirements.

👉 Visit the Michigan DNR website to review official information and buy your license online.

Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan Fishing License Cost