Dove & Migratory Birds

Texas Dove & Migratory
Bird Permits 2026

Complete requirements for hunting doves, woodcock, snipe, and other migratory birds in Texas. Texas is the number-one dove hunting state in the nation. Three zones with different openers, including a special white-winged dove season in September.

HIP Required Dove Season Open

2026 Permit Quick Facts Verified 2026

State Fee

$40.00

Hunting license + HIP; white-winged dove counties: special zone applies Sept 1–2.

Non-Resident

$315.00

Hunting license + HIP

Daily Bag Limit

15 doves combined; 2-day white-winged limit of 15 per day in Sept

Federal maximum

HIP Required

Yes (Free)

Complete at license agent

Season Dates

2026 Migratory Bird Season in Texas

North Zone: Sept 1; Central Zone: Sept 1; South Zone: varies; season extends into January

Season dates are set annually by USFWS. Always confirm current dates with Texas Parks & Wildlife Department.

Step-by-Step

How to Get Licensed for Dove Hunting in Texas

Purchase a Texas Hunting License

A valid state hunting license is required for all migratory bird hunting. An additional state migratory bird fee of $40.00 applies. Purchase through Texas Parks & Wildlife Department online or at an authorized license agent.

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.

Check Season Dates & Bag Limits

Dove season dates are set annually by USFWS. Daily bag limit: 15 doves combined; 2-day white-winged limit of 15 per day in Sept. North Zone: Sept 1; Central Zone: Sept 1; South Zone: varies; season extends into January Always confirm current season dates with Texas Parks & Wildlife Department before hunting.

Requirements

Texas Migratory Bird Requirements

Texas hunting license + HIP registration. Nontoxic shot required in some areas.

Important Notes

Texas-Specific Information

Texas dove hunting is an important cultural tradition; many leases available.

Source: Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (tpwd.texas.gov). Requirements verified 2026. Season dates are set annually — always confirm with Texas Parks & Wildlife Department and USFWS before hunting.

Texas