Do I Need Written Permission to Hunt in Georgia?

Licensing Fees

• Georgia requires payment of a fee in order to get a hunting license. The fees vary depending on the type of game you plan to hunt and whether you are resident of Georgia; non-residents typically pay a higher fee. All hunters, resident and non-resident, also must have regular hunting licenses in addition to any speciality permits for specific game. The Wildlife Resources Division packages some licenses together (e.g., hunting and fishing licenses) and also offers lifetime licenses that can be economical in the long run.

Where To Purchase

• Georgia hunters have three options for purchasing a hunters' permit. Permits can be purchased (and replaced) online through the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division website (georgiawildlife.org) or by calling 1-800-366-2661. Otherwise, hunters can use the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division website to find an agent who is authorized to sell hunting permits. There are more than 400 authorized agents throughout the state, many of whom are located at retail establishments that hunters typically frequent (e.g., sporting goods stores, bait and tackle stores).

Exemptions

• Persons in Georgia who hunt on land owned by either them or their immediate family members (including non-blood but dependent members of the household) are exempt from Georgia's license requirements. The only other licensing exemption is for out-of-state hunters under age 16 who are hunting small game. All other persons hunting in Georgia must have a permit.

Violations

• Georgia enforces its hunting licensing requirement by assessing financial penalties when a hunter is caught hunting without a license. Violation fines vary depending on whether the hunter is a resident or non-resident and what they are hunting. The fine for non-resident hunters is typically more than the fine for residents. When hunting in Georgia, keep your license with you at all times in the event that you might need to produce it to a state official.