Deer Tags
Washington Deer Tags
2026
Complete guide to deer tag requirements in Washington — official agency links, resident and nonresident tag fees, antlerless permits, bag limits, and how to purchase your tags. Washington manages Columbian blacktail deer in western regions and mule deer in eastern regions through a combination of OTC and draw licenses by Game Management Unit (GMU). Deer licenses are purchased separately from the base license. Western Washington GMUs allow OTC deer tags in most areas; eastern Washington draw licenses are required for quality mule deer units.
Separate Tag Required
Up to 2 Tags (Resident)
Resident Tag: $32
2026 Deer Tag Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Resident Tag Fee
$32
License fees vary by GMU; shown are general season fees
Nonresident Fee
$285
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 Washington Deer Tag
Follow these steps to purchase and properly use your Washington deer tag for the 2026 season.
1
Purchase Your Base Hunting License
Before buying a deer tag, you must have a valid Washington hunting license. Residents and nonresidents must purchase the appropriate base license for the season. You can purchase online at the Washington Dept. of Fish & Wildlife website or at a licensed sporting goods retailer.
2
Purchase Your Deer Tag(s)
Purchase your deer tag(s) separately from Washington Dept. of Fish & Wildlife online, at a license agent, or at a sporting goods store.
Resident tags are $32 and nonresident tags are $285. Purchase online →
3
Know Your Requirements Before Hunting
Review Washington'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 Washington Dept. of Fish & Wildlife website and at license agents. Washington Hunting License required. Deer tag 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
Washington Deer Tag Requirements
Washington Hunting License required. Deer tag required. Hunter education required.
Important Notes
Washington-Specific Tag Information
Eastern WA draw licenses due in June. Check GMU-specific antler requirements. CWD testing required in designated GMUs.
Source: Washington Dept. of Fish & Wildlife (wdfw.wa.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current fees and tag requirements directly with Washington Dept. of Fish & Wildlife before purchasing.