Deer Tags
North Dakota Deer Tags
2026
Complete guide to deer tag requirements in North Dakota - official agency links, resident and nonresident tag fees, antlerless permits, bag limits, and how to purchase your tags. North Dakota manages mule deer and whitetail through a unit-based license system. Deer licenses are sold separately from the base license. Nonresident deer licenses are limited in number and typically sell out quickly. North Dakota produces exceptional trophy mule deer in the badlands region and strong whitetail in the eastern Red River Valley. Premium units require draw applications.
Separate Tag Required
Up to 2 Tags (Resident)
Resident Tag: $18
2026 Deer Tag Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Resident Tag Fee
$18
Unit-specific licenses vary in price; nonresident licenses limited in most units
Nonresident Fee
$242
per nonresident deer tag
Max Tags (Resident)
2
deer per season
Tag Required?
Yes
Purchase separately
Antlerless Tags
Resident: $10
Nonresident: $50
Step-by-Step
How to Get Your North Dakota Deer Tag
Follow these steps to purchase and properly use your North Dakota deer tag for the 2026 season.
1
Purchase Your Base Hunting License
Before buying a deer tag, you must have a valid North Dakota hunting license. Residents and nonresidents must purchase the appropriate base license for the season. You can purchase online at the North Dakota Game & Fish Department website or at a licensed sporting goods retailer.
2
Purchase Your Deer Tag(s)
Purchase your deer tag(s) separately from North Dakota Game & Fish Department online, at a license agent, or at a sporting goods store.
Resident tags are $18 and nonresident tags are $242. Purchase online →
3
Know Your Requirements Before Hunting
Review North Dakota's current deer hunting regulations for season dates, legal shooting hours, legal deer definitions, antler restrictions (if any), and zone-specific rules. Regulations are available on the North Dakota Game & Fish Department website and at license agents. ND Sportsman's License required. Deer license required per season. CWD testing required in affected units.
4
Immediately Tag Your Harvest
Upon harvesting a deer, you must immediately fill out your deer tag and attach it to the deer before moving it. Most states require you to notch the month and day, then attach it to a visible location. Keep your license and tags on your person while hunting and during transport.
Requirements
North Dakota Deer Tag Requirements
ND Sportsman's License required. Deer license required per season. CWD testing required in affected units.
Important Notes
North Dakota-Specific Tag Information
Nonresident deer licenses sell out rapidly. Purchase online as soon as sales begin in mid-August.
Source: North Dakota Game & Fish Department (gf.nd.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current fees and tag requirements directly with North Dakota Game & Fish Department before purchasing.