Dove & Migratory Birds
North Carolina Dove & Migratory
Bird Permits 2026
Complete requirements for hunting doves, woodcock, snipe, and other migratory birds in North Carolina. North Carolina has excellent dove hunting across the state's Coastal Plain and Piedmont regions.
HIP Required
Dove Season Open
Woodcock Season
2026 Permit Quick Facts
Verified 2026
State Fee
$25.00
Hunting license + HIP required.
Non-Resident
$80.00
Hunting license + HIP
Daily Bag Limit
15 mourning + ground doves combined; 3 woodcock
Federal maximum
HIP Required
Yes (Free)
Complete at license agent
Season Dates
2026 Migratory Bird Season in North Carolina
Early season Sept 1–Oct 30; regular late season through Jan
Season dates are set annually by USFWS. Always confirm current dates with NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
Step-by-Step
How to Get Licensed for Dove Hunting in North Carolina
1
Purchase a North Carolina 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 NC Wildlife Resources Commission 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 + ground doves combined; 3 woodcock. Early season Sept 1–Oct 30; regular late season through Jan Always confirm current season dates with NC Wildlife Resources Commission before hunting.
Requirements
North Carolina Migratory Bird Requirements
NC hunting license + HIP registration required.
Source: NC Wildlife Resources Commission (www.ncwildlife.org).
Requirements verified 2026. Season dates are set annually — always confirm with NC Wildlife Resources Commission and USFWS before hunting.