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Hunting Licenses and Publications

Online License Application

If you are a U.S. or Canadian citizen, the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish & Parks offers the option of purchasing any over-the-counter license online. You must be over 16, possess a valid Social Security Number (not required of Canadian citizens), have a credit card and a printer.

• Online License Application System (GFP)

Licensing

Non-residents who are at least 12 years old or turn 12 before Jan. 1, may apply for or buy licenses and may hunt in an open season beginning Sept. 1. To purchase a South Dakota license, non-residents under 16 must show proof they have passed a hunter safety course or they hold a hunting license for the current or previous year from any state. All big game archery licensees, ages 11-15, all first-time archery big game licensees regardless of age, and all archery elk licensees must possess a National Bowhunter Education Foundation certificate or certificate of completion from a bowhunter education course approved by any state or provincial government.

• South Dakota Hunting and Fishing License Fees (GFP)
• South Dakota Residency Requirements (GFP)

Small Game Licenses

Small game licenses, including pheasant, may be obtained from authorized licensing agents, such as hardware and sporting goods stores. Non-resident small game licenses are valid for two periods of five consecutive days each. Hunters may buy additional small game licenses.

• South Dakota Hunting and Fishing License Agents (GFP)

Non-Resident License Application

Non-resident applications are available by season. Specific deadlines are set by the Department of Game, Fish & Parks.

Publications

Both the South Dakota Department of Tourism and the Department of Game, Fish & Parks produce print publications specifically for hunters and sportsmen/women. Most of these publications are available to read online and/or to download:

• South Dakota Fishing and Hunting Guide (PDF)
• South Dakota Hunting & Trapping Handbook (PDF)
• South Dakota Public Hunting Areas (PDF) (GFP)
• Nontoxic Shot for Upland Birds (PDF) (GFP)
• All Department of Game, Fish & Parks Publications (GFP)

Request More Information

• Request a FREE Fishing & Hunting packet from the Department of Tourism.
• Request a variety of information from the Department of Game, Fish & Parks.