Dove & Migratory Birds
New Mexico Dove & Migratory
Bird Permits 2026
Complete requirements for hunting doves, woodcock, snipe, and other migratory birds in New Mexico. New Mexico is a premier dove hunting state with excellent white-winged and mourning dove populations. Season opens September 1.
HIP Required
Dove Season Open
2026 Permit Quick Facts
Verified 2026
State Fee
$25.00
Small game license + HIP required.
Non-Resident
$100.00
Hunting license + HIP
Daily Bag Limit
15 doves (mourning + white-winged combined)
Federal maximum
HIP Required
Yes (Free)
Complete at license agent
Season Dates
2026 Migratory Bird Season in New Mexico
Zone 1: Sept 1–15 (white-winged); statewide Sept 1–Nov 30
Season dates are set annually by USFWS. Always confirm current dates with New Mexico Dept. of Game & Fish.
Step-by-Step
How to Get Licensed for Dove Hunting in New Mexico
1
Purchase a New Mexico Hunting License
A valid state hunting license is required for all migratory bird hunting. An additional state migratory bird fee of $25.00 applies. Purchase through New Mexico Dept. of Game & Fish 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 doves (mourning + white-winged combined). Zone 1: Sept 1–15 (white-winged); statewide Sept 1–Nov 30 Always confirm current season dates with New Mexico Dept. of Game & Fish before hunting.
Requirements
New Mexico Migratory Bird Requirements
New Mexico small game license + HIP.
Source: New Mexico Dept. of Game & Fish (www.wildlife.state.nm.us).
Requirements verified 2026. Season dates are set annually — always confirm with New Mexico Dept. of Game & Fish and USFWS before hunting.