Deer Hunting Tags —
All 50 States

Most states require one or more deer tags purchased separately from the base hunting license. Find your state's deer tag requirements, fees, antlerless tags, bag limits, and where to buy deer tags online. Whether you're hunting whitetail, mule deer, or blacktail, knowing your tag requirements before the season opens is essential.

All 50 States Covered Resident & Nonresident Fees Antlered & Antlerless Tags

50States Covered

50Tag Required States

24Tag Included w/ License

Resident & nonresident fees

Antlerless tag info

Bag limits by state

OTC vs. draw permits

Official agency links

Key Concepts

How the Deer Tag System Works

The United States deer tag system is a cornerstone of wildlife management. Unlike a hunting license — which grants general permission to hunt — a deer tag is a specific permit authorizing the harvest of one deer. When you tag a deer, you attach the paper tag to the animal immediately after harvest, creating an official record. Tags serve as the primary tool for managing deer populations: by limiting how many tags are issued, wildlife biologists can control harvest pressure and maintain healthy deer herds statewide. Tags are also a major funding mechanism, with proceeds going directly to wildlife agencies for habitat improvement, research, and enforcement.

Resident vs. Nonresident Tags

Resident tags are significantly cheaper — typically $15–$30 — because state wildlife agencies prioritize local hunters. Nonresident tags run $100–$300+ in most states, reflecting the higher economic value nonresidents bring to local outfitters and sporting goods shops.

Over-the-Counter vs. Draw

Most whitetail deer tags are sold over-the-counter (OTC) — you simply purchase them online or at a license agent. Mule deer, blacktail, and some high-demand whitetail units require a draw permit where you apply and are selected by lottery, sometimes with multi-year preference points systems.

Antlered vs. Antlerless Tags

Many states split deer tags into antlered (buck) and antlerless (doe/fawn) categories to fine-tune herd management. Some states include one antlered deer on the base license but require a separate antlerless tag. Antlerless tags are often cheaper and used to control doe populations in areas with overabundance.

Tag Limits & Bonus Tags

States set maximum tag limits — often 1–5 deer per season depending on population and management goals. Many states offer bonus antlerless tags later in the season when population data suggests additional harvest is needed. Always check your state's current regulations booklet for exact limits.

50 states

50 states shown

Alabama

Incl. w/ license

Deer Hunting Tags —All 50 States

How the Deer Tag System Works

Common Deer Tag Questions

Deer Hunting Tags —
All 50 States