Deer Tags
Ohio Deer Tags
2026
Complete guide to deer tag requirements in Ohio — official agency links, resident and nonresident tag fees, antlerless permits, bag limits, and how to purchase your tags. Ohio has a large deer population and a simple tag system. One antlerless tag is included free with the hunting license; antlered tags are also included. Ohio is known for consistently producing trophy-class whitetail deer, particularly in the agricultural east-central counties. The state actively manages deer through unit-specific antlerless harvest goals.
Tag Included w/ License
Up to 6 Tags (Resident)
2026 Deer Tag Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Resident Tag Fee
Included
Included with base license
Nonresident Fee
$147
per nonresident deer tag
Max Tags (Resident)
6
deer per season
Tag Required?
Yes
Tag included with base license
Antlerless Tags
Resident: $0
Nonresident: $15
Step-by-Step
How to Get Your Ohio Deer Tag
Follow these steps to purchase and properly use your Ohio deer tag for the 2026 season.
1
Purchase Your Base Hunting License
Before buying a deer tag, you must have a valid Ohio hunting license. Residents and nonresidents must purchase the appropriate base license for the season. You can purchase online at the Ohio Dept. of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife website or at a licensed sporting goods retailer.
2
Purchase Your Deer Tag(s)
In Ohio, one deer tag is included with your base hunting license — no separate purchase required for your first deer. Additional tags must be purchased separately.
3
Know Your Requirements Before Hunting
Review Ohio'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 Ohio Dept. of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife website and at license agents. Ohio Hunting License required. Hunter education required. Check in required online at apps.ohiodnr.gov.
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
Ohio Deer Tag Requirements
Ohio Hunting License required. Hunter education required. Check in required online at apps.ohiodnr.gov.
Important Notes
Ohio-Specific Tag Information
Electronic deer check-in required within 24 hours of harvest. Quality Deer Management (QDM) encouraged statewide.
Source: Ohio Dept. of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife (ohiodnr.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current fees and tag requirements directly with Ohio Dept. of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife before purchasing.