Deer Tags
South Dakota Deer Tags
2026
Complete guide to deer tag requirements in South Dakota — official agency links, resident and nonresident tag fees, antlerless permits, bag limits, and how to purchase your tags. South Dakota manages mule deer and whitetail through a license system that requires separate deer licenses from the base hunting license. Both OTC and draw licenses are available depending on zone and species. South Dakota's Black Hills produce excellent mule deer, while the eastern prairie zones offer strong whitetail hunting. Nonresident deer licenses are limited in most zones.
Separate Tag Required
Up to 2 Tags (Resident)
Resident Tag: $28
2026 Deer Tag Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Resident Tag Fee
$28
License fees vary by unit; shown are general zone fees
Nonresident Fee
$307
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 South Dakota Deer Tag
Follow these steps to purchase and properly use your South Dakota deer tag for the 2026 season.
1
Purchase Your Base Hunting License
Before buying a deer tag, you must have a valid South Dakota hunting license. Residents and nonresidents must purchase the appropriate base license for the season. You can purchase online at the South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks website or at a licensed sporting goods retailer.
2
Purchase Your Deer Tag(s)
Purchase your deer tag(s) separately from South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks online, at a license agent, or at a sporting goods store.
Resident tags are $28 and nonresident tags are $307. Purchase online →
3
Know Your Requirements Before Hunting
Review South 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 South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks website and at license agents. SD Small Game License and Deer License required. Hunter education required.
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
South Dakota Deer Tag Requirements
SD Small Game License and Deer License required. Hunter education required.
Important Notes
South Dakota-Specific Tag Information
Nonresident deer licenses sell out quickly for premium units. Apply as soon as licenses go on sale in August.
Source: South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks (gfp.sd.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current fees and tag requirements directly with South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks before purchasing.