Will my current licenses still be valid?
Yes, any license bought before July 1 will be valid for what it was intended (one single resident gun deer antlered license = one antlered gun deer). That one license does not, however, cover the hunter for all the deer they can hunt so after July 1, they will need to buy a resident deer gun license if they are going to hunt beyond just the license they bought previously.
What about the Controlled Hunts fee structure? Will it change for this year?
Controlled hunts will all be the same as far as the regular application/current license types and costs as the drawing will be conducted (and the license paid/issued) before July 1.
How do I apply for a lifetime license?
No changes are happening to the lifetime license application process. You can find all that information including a link to the online application here: wildlifedepartment.com/licensing/lifetime-license
When is the final date for hard copy applications?
Mail-in applications should have a postmark date before June 30, 2024.
When is the final date for online applications?
The last day to ensure approval is June 28, 2024.
If a Non-resident buys a deer license in June ‘24 will they still have to buy an annual NR hunting license to hunt deer in the Fall?
Yes, every nonresident hunter in the fall of 2024 will need an annual hunting license and a deer license (even if they bought their deer license in June ‘24)
Will the price and scope of the Conservation Passport change?
This legislation provides that the Wildlife Conservation Commission may increase the price of the Conservation Passport by $10 and require it for all lands managed (not just owned) by the Wildlife Department. The Wildlife Conservation Commission may consider this in the future, but there is no immediate change expected until ODWC can visit with cooperators like the Corps of Engineers and other agencies.
If I bought my hunting or combination lifetime license before July 1, 2024, does it include a bear license?
Yes, moving forward bear licenses are included in all hunting and combination lifetime licenses no matter when they were purchased.
If I have a lifetime fishing license now, can I add a lifetime hunting license to it after July 1?
No, after July 1 all lifetime hunting licenses will be sold as combo fishing & hunting licenses. If you think you want to add a lifetime hunting license to your lifetime fishing license, we recommend that you do so before July 1.
Can I start a payment plan for my child before the price increase?
Yes. If a payment plan is started for a minor (under 18) before July 1, your total cost will be at the current price. However, you must pay the balance within 1 calendar year of starting the payment plan.
Is there a discount on lifetime licenses for tribal citizens?
No. Discounted prices for lifetime licenses are only available to resident seniors (age 65 and older) and resident disabled veterans.
So is every hunting and fishing license going to cost me more now?
No, a few of our licenses did not change at all.
Are licenses more expensive for nonresident hunters and anglers?
Yes, nonresident prices have increased and provide the bulk of the revenue increase projected from the bill.
I have my lifetime licenses for hunting and fishing, so how does all this affect me?
Mostly, it doesn’t. You are, however, now exempt from having to buy a separate bear license to hunt bear.
Why are license fees increasing?
This new license structure and license fees, determined by the Oklahoma Legislature, streamline and modernize licensing for Oklahomans, making it easier and more accessible for them to enjoy Oklahoma’s outdoors. This restructuring brings Oklahoma hunting and fishing licensing from 2003 to the present and makes Oklahoma competitive with regional averages. This license streamlining will result in better customer service, and customers will have more confidence in knowing that they’re buying the right license.
Importantly this license modernization will bring needed revenue for the Wildlife Department to fulfill its mission of conserving wildlife for all Oklahomans.
Will people under 18 (16-64) be required to purchase HIP?
No, the way HIP works is that if the hunter is not required to have a base hunting license, then they are not required to have HIP. So, under 18 will not have to have a HIP.