Dove & Migratory Birds
New Jersey Dove & Migratory
Bird Permits 2026
Complete requirements for hunting doves, woodcock, snipe, and other migratory birds in New Jersey. New Jersey has mourning dove and woodcock seasons. Hunting license and HIP registration required.
HIP Required
Dove Season Open
Woodcock Season
2026 Permit Quick Facts
Verified 2026
State Fee
$27.50
Hunting license + HIP required.
Non-Resident
$52.50
Hunting license + HIP
Daily Bag Limit
15 mourning doves; 3 woodcock
Federal maximum
HIP Required
Yes (Free)
Complete at license agent
Season Dates
2026 Migratory Bird Season in New Jersey
Dove: Sept 1 – Oct 31 and Dec 10 – Jan 13; Woodcock: Oct–Nov
Season dates are set annually by USFWS. Always confirm current dates with New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife.
Step-by-Step
How to Get Licensed for Dove Hunting in New Jersey
1
Purchase a New Jersey Hunting License
A valid state hunting license is required for all migratory bird hunting. An additional state migratory bird fee of $27.50 applies. Purchase through New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife 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; 3 woodcock. Dove: Sept 1 – Oct 31 and Dec 10 – Jan 13; Woodcock: Oct–Nov Always confirm current season dates with New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife before hunting.
Requirements
New Jersey Migratory Bird Requirements
NJ hunting license + HIP registration.
Source: New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife (www.njfishandwildlife.com).
Requirements verified 2026. Season dates are set annually - always confirm with New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife and USFWS before hunting.