Idaho hunter education

License year: 2026. Each fact shows its own license year, source and the date we checked it. Always confirm with Idaho Department of Fish and Game before you apply.

Hunter education rules

Required if born on or after
Jan. 1, 1975 Required to buy a hunting license unless you have held a hunting license in Idaho or another state. Source: IDFG Big Game 2026 Seasons and Rules (July 2026 - June 2027), p. 116. License year 2026. Checked Oct 26, 2026.
Exemption
Not required if you have previously held a hunting license in Idaho or another state Source: IDFG Big Game 2026 Seasons and Rules (July 2026 - June 2027), p. 116. License year 2026. Checked Oct 26, 2026.
Apprentice or mentored option
$1.75 Hunting Passport Source: IDFG Big Game 2026 Seasons and Rules (July 2026 - June 2027), p. 118. License year 2026. Checked Oct 26, 2026.
Bowhunter education
Bowhunter education (or a prior archery-only license) is required to buy an archery permit Source: IDFG Big Game 2026 Seasons and Rules (July 2026 - June 2027), p. 116. License year 2026. Checked Oct 26, 2026.
Course options
Instructor-led course (12 to 13 class hours plus an outdoor field day and final written exam) or a self-paced online course Source: IDFG Big Game 2026 Seasons and Rules (July 2026 - June 2027), p. 116. License year 2026. Checked Oct 26, 2026.

Idaho elk and mule deer draw odds by unit: past results from each state agency, with the source for every number.