Dove & Migratory Birds
Alabama Dove & Migratory
Bird Permits 2026
Complete requirements for hunting doves, woodcock, snipe, and other migratory birds in Alabama. Alabama offers three dove hunting zones with early, regular, and special seasons. Hunters must be HIP-registered and have a valid hunting license.
HIP Required
Dove Season Open
2026 Permit Quick Facts
Verified 2026
State Fee
$17.00
Included in base hunting license; HIP registration is free.
Non-Resident
$63.00
Hunting license + HIP
Daily Bag Limit
15 mourning doves; 15 white-winged doves in Zone 3
Federal maximum
HIP Required
Yes (Free)
Complete at license agent
Season Dates
2026 Migratory Bird Season in Alabama
Zone 1: Sept 1–Oct 29 & Dec 15–Jan 14; Zone 2 similar dates
Season dates are set annually by USFWS. Always confirm current dates with Alabama Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources.
Step-by-Step
How to Get Licensed for Dove Hunting in Alabama
1
Purchase a Alabama Hunting License
A valid state hunting license is required for all migratory bird hunting. An additional state migratory bird fee of $17.00 applies. Purchase through Alabama Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources online or at an authorized license agent.
2
Complete Free HIP Registration
HIP registration is free and quick — answer a brief survey about last year's migratory bird harvests. This is typically completed when purchasing your hunting license at a license agent or online. You must have a valid HIP registration number before hunting doves or other migratory birds.
3
Check Season Dates & Bag Limits
Dove season dates are set annually by USFWS. Daily bag limit: 15 mourning doves; 15 white-winged doves in Zone 3. Zone 1: Sept 1–Oct 29 & Dec 15–Jan 14; Zone 2 similar dates Always confirm current season dates with Alabama Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources before hunting.
Requirements
Alabama Migratory Bird Requirements
Alabama hunting license + HIP registration required. Nontoxic shot required on certain WMAs.
Source: Alabama Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources (www.outdooralabama.com).
Requirements verified 2026. Season dates are set annually — always confirm with Alabama Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources and USFWS before hunting.