How to Get a Hunting License in Missouri
A Step-by-Step Guide
Discover > Hunting Licenses State by State > How to Get a Hunting License in Missouri: A Step-by-Step Guide
Obtaining a hunting license in Missouri is a straightforward process that requires a few simple steps. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is responsible for issuing hunting licenses in the state. They offer a variety of licenses and permits for different types of hunting activities, including deer, turkey, small game, and waterfowl.
Before applying for a hunting license, it is important to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements set by the MDC. Applicants must be at least 16 years old, and those born after January 1, 1967, must complete a hunter education course. Additionally, hunters must have a valid Social Security number and not have any hunting-related convictions or violations. Once eligibility is established, hunters can choose the type of license or permit that best fits their needs and interests.
The process of obtaining a hunting license in Missouri typically involves completing an application, paying the required fees, and providing any necessary documentation. Hunters can apply for a license online, by phone, or in person at a local MDC office or authorized agent. After the application is processed, the hunter will receive their license and any necessary tags or permits in the mail. By following these simple steps, hunters can legally enjoy the abundant hunting opportunities that Missouri has to offer.
Understanding Hunting in Missouri
Hunting is a popular activity in Missouri, with a diverse range of game available for hunters to pursue. Missouri's hunting seasons are regulated by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), which sets bag limits and other restrictions to ensure the sustainability of the state's wildlife populations.
Deer hunting is one of the most popular types of hunting in Missouri. The state is home to both antlered and antlerless deer, and hunters can obtain either a firearms hunting permit or an archery permit depending on their preferred method of hunting. The firearms portion of deer season typically runs from mid-November to mid-December, while the archery season extends from late September to mid-January.
In addition to deer, Missouri also offers hunting opportunities for small game, waterfowl, turkeys, elk, furbearers, and black bears. Hunters must obtain the appropriate hunting permits for the species they wish to hunt, with different permits available for different types of game.
During firearms deer season, hunters are required to wear camouflage orange to increase visibility and reduce the risk of accidents. The MDC also designates certain areas as black bear management zones, where hunters can apply for a black bear hunting permit. It is important to note that female bears with cubs are off-limits for hunting.
Snow, blue, and Ross's geese are also popular game birds in Missouri, with specific hunting seasons and bag limits set by the MDC. Hunters must obtain a small game hunting permit to hunt these birds.
Overall, Missouri offers a wide range of hunting opportunities for both residents and non-residents. Hunters should familiarize themselves with the state's hunting regulations and obtain the appropriate permits before heading out into the field.
Types of Hunting Permits
In Missouri, there are various types of hunting permits available to both residents and nonresidents. These permits allow hunters to legally hunt certain game animals during specific seasons. The following sub-sections describe the different types of hunting permits available.
Resident Permits
Missouri residents can purchase a variety of hunting permits, including a Resident Firearms Hunting Permit, Resident Firearms Any-Deer Hunting Permit, Resident Landowner Firearms Any-Deer Hunting Permit, Youth Permit, and Lifetime Small Game Hunting Permit.
The Resident Firearms Hunting Permit allows hunters to hunt with firearms during the appropriate season. The Resident Firearms Any-Deer Hunting Permit allows the hunter to take one antlered deer during the appropriate season. The Resident Landowner Firearms Any-Deer Hunting Permit is available to resident landowners who own at least 20 acres of land in Missouri and allows them to take one antlered deer during the appropriate season. The Youth Permit is available to hunters under the age of 16 and allows them to hunt during the appropriate season with an adult mentor. The Lifetime Small Game Hunting Permit is a one-time purchase that allows the holder to hunt small game for the rest of their life.
Nonresident Permits
Nonresidents can also purchase various hunting permits, including a Nonresident Firearms Hunting Permit, Nonresident Firearms Any-Deer Hunting Permit, Nonresident Landowner Firearms Any-Deer Hunting Permit, Nonresident Managed Deer Hunting Permit, and Migratory Bird Hunting Permit.
The Nonresident Firearms Hunting Permit allows hunters to hunt with firearms during the appropriate season. The Nonresident Firearms Any-Deer Hunting Permit allows the hunter to take one antlered deer during the appropriate season. The Nonresident Landowner Firearms Any-Deer Hunting Permit is available to nonresident landowners who own at least 75 acres of land in Missouri and allows them to take one antlered deer during the appropriate season. The Nonresident Managed Deer Hunting Permit allows the holder to hunt on specific properties during the appropriate season. The Migratory Bird Hunting Permit allows the holder to hunt migratory birds during the appropriate season.
It's important to note that some permits may require additional permits or authorizations, such as a Landowner Permit or Apprentice Hunter Authorization. Hunters should always check the Missouri Department of Conservation website for the most up-to-date information on hunting permits and regulations.
Obtaining a Hunting License
To hunt legally in Missouri, hunters must obtain a hunting license. There are two ways to obtain a hunting license in Missouri: through an online application or a telephone application.
Online Application
To apply for a hunting license online, hunters must visit the Missouri Department of Conservation website. Once there, they can fill out the application and pay the fee using a credit card. After completing the application, hunters will receive an electronic copy of their hunting license, which they can print or save on their smartphone using the MO Hunting app. Additionally, hunters can purchase an e-stamp for waterfowl hunting.
Telephone Application
Hunters can also apply for a hunting license over the phone by calling the Conservation Number. The conservation agent will ask for the necessary information and payment can be made using a credit card. After completing the application, hunters will receive a paper copy of their hunting license in the mail.
Overall, obtaining a hunting license in Missouri is a simple process that can be done online or over the phone. By following the steps outlined by the Missouri Department of Conservation, hunters can obtain their license quickly and easily, allowing them to enjoy all that Missouri's great outdoors has to offer.
Hunter Education and Certification
In Missouri, anyone born on or after January 1, 1967, must complete an approved hunter education course before purchasing a hunting permit. The hunter education course is designed to teach safety, ethics, and responsibilities of hunting.
Hunter Education Course
The hunter education course is available in two formats: traditional classroom and online. The traditional classroom course is taught by certified volunteer instructors and consists of a minimum of 10 hours of instruction. The online course is self-paced and can be completed at any time. Both courses cover the same material and require a passing score on a final exam.
Apprentice Hunter and Mentor Program
Missouri offers an Apprentice Hunter and Mentor Program for first-time hunters who have not completed the hunter education course. This program allows an adult hunter who is hunter-education certified to take an apprentice hunter on a hunt without the apprentice hunter completing the hunter education course. The apprentice hunter must purchase an Apprentice Hunter Authorization and hunt with a mentor who is at least 18 years old and has completed the hunter education course.
The Apprentice Hunter and Mentor Program is available for up to two years. After the first year, the apprentice hunter must complete the hunter education course to continue hunting. The mentor must be within arm's reach of the apprentice hunter at all times while hunting.
In conclusion, obtaining a hunting license in Missouri requires completion of an approved hunter education course or participation in the Apprentice Hunter and Mentor Program. It is important to always practice safety, ethics, and responsibility while hunting.
Special Hunting Permits
In addition to the standard hunting permits required for hunting in Missouri, there are also special permits that may be required depending on the type of hunting being done. Two common special permits are the Federal Duck (What wine goes well with duck?) Stamp and E-Stamp, and the Conservation Order Permit.
Federal Duck Stamp and E-Stamp
For hunters who plan to hunt migratory birds, a Federal Duck Stamp and E-Stamp may be required. These stamps are issued by the United States government and are valid throughout the country. The Federal Duck Stamp can be purchased at most post offices and some sporting goods stores. The E-Stamp can be purchased online through the Missouri Department of Conservation's website.
Conservation Order Permit
The Conservation Order Permit is required for hunters who plan to participate in the Light Goose Conservation Order. This order allows hunters to take an unlimited number of snow geese, blue geese, and Ross's geese during a specific time period. The permit can be purchased online through the Missouri Department of Conservation's website.
It is important to note that these special permits must be carried by the hunter at all times while hunting. Failure to have the proper permits in immediate presence while hunting can result in fines and other penalties.
The Missouri National Guard also offers a special hunting permit for members of the Guard who are on active duty. This permit allows Guard members to hunt during times when they would normally be on duty. More information about this permit can be obtained through the Missouri National Guard.
Missouri Hunting Regulations
Hunting Seasons and Zones
Missouri has different hunting seasons and zones for various species of game animals. The state is divided into several zones, each with specific regulations and season dates. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) determines the season dates and regulations for each zone. Hunters can check the MDC website for the latest information on season dates, regulations, and hunting zones.
Hunting Techniques and Safety
Hunters in Missouri must follow specific techniques and safety rules when hunting. The MDC recommends hunters wear hunter orange clothing when hunting to increase visibility and reduce accidents. Additionally, hunters must follow specific rules on hunting techniques, such as using only legal firearms and ammunition, and following specific hunting methods for different game animals.
Landowner Regulations
Missouri landowners may require a permit for hunting on their property. Landowners must follow specific regulations when allowing hunters on their land, such as posting signs and following specific rules on hunting techniques. Nonresident landowners may also apply for a landowner permit to hunt on their property.
Overall, Missouri hunting regulations aim to provide a safe and sustainable hunting experience for hunters in the state. Hunters should always check the latest regulations and season dates before going hunting to ensure they are following the rules and regulations set by the MDC.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many deer tags can you get in Missouri?
In Missouri, the number of deer tags you can get depends on the type of license you have. If you have a Resident Firearms Any-Deer Permit, you can get one antlered and two antlerless deer tags. If you have a Resident Archery Any-Deer Permit, you can get one antlered and two antlerless deer tags. If you have a Resident Firearms Antlerless Deer Permit, you can get two antlerless deer tags. If you have a Resident Archery Antlerless Deer Permit, you can get two antlerless deer tags.
What license do I need to deer hunt in Missouri?
To deer hunt in Missouri, you need a valid Missouri hunting license and a valid deer hunting permit. If you are a resident, you can get a Resident Any-Deer Permit, Resident Firearms Antlerless Deer Permit, Resident Archery Antlerless Deer Permit, Resident Firearms Any-Deer Permit, or Resident Archery Any-Deer Permit. If you are a non-resident, you can get a Nonresident Firearms Any-Deer Permit or Nonresident Archery Any-Deer Permit.
Can I get my Missouri hunting license online?
Yes, you can get your Missouri hunting license online through the Missouri Department of Conservation's website. You can also purchase your hunting license in person at a Missouri Department of Conservation office or at an authorized vendor.
Where can I buy my Missouri hunting license?
You can buy your Missouri hunting license at a Missouri Department of Conservation office, at an authorized vendor, or online through the Missouri Department of Conservation's website.
How do I get a hunting permit card in Missouri?
If you purchase your Missouri hunting license online, you can print your permit card at home. If you purchase your hunting license in person, you will be given a printed permit card.
Do you need a hunting license in Missouri?
Yes, you need a valid Missouri hunting license to hunt in Missouri. Some species, such as deer and turkey, also require additional permits.
