Hunting in North Carolina: 4 Things to Know Before Applying for a Hunting Permit for Adults

Much like any other state, hunting in North Carolina gives hunters a great chance for big game, but they have to apply for and receive a hunting permit before heading out to take any animal. Whether it is big game animals, such as deer and bears, smaller game, such as coyotes and foxes, or migrating birds, all hunters must have a hunting license before they set out on their adventures.

Before going hunting in North Carolina, here is what adults need to know about applying for a hunting permit.

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1. Hunter Education

All hunters age 16 or older who have never purchased a hunting license in North Carolina must take a hunter education course in the state. No one can get a hunting license in North Carolina unless they have a certificate for completing the course, have a North Carolina hunting heritage apprentice permit, or received a hunting license before 2013. Hunting education courses can be taken online or with an instructor through the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.

2. How to Purchase a License

There are four ways hunters in North Carolina can purchase a license: by visiting a local wildlife service agent, on the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission website, by phone at (888) 248-6834, or at the offices of the Wildlife Resources Commission.

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3. Exemptions

Anyone living on a land used for cultivation can hunt, trap and fish without needing a hunting license. Any resident of North Carolina who is part of the United States Armed Forces, serving outside of North Carolina, is exempt from needing a hunting license when back in state for less than 30 days. These individuals just need to carry their military identification card and their leave of duty paperwork. These soldiers still need to have a bear management e-stamp to hunt bear.

4. Lifetime License

Residents who plan to hunt in North Carolina for the long term can opt to purchase a lifetime license. While the additional privileges still need to be obtained from the state, such as the bear management e-stamp, these licenses can save a lot of money in the long term, topping out at $675 for residents and $1,550 for nonresidents.

This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.

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