Idaho hunting regulations

License year: 2026 and 2027. 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.

Official regulations

Rules to know

License validity
Most licenses go on sale Dec. 1 for the upcoming year and are valid for the calendar year Source: IDFG Big Game 2026 Seasons and Rules (July 2026 - June 2027), p. 116. License year 2026. Checked Oct 26, 2026.
CWD mandatory testing
Mandatory CWD testing within 10 days for mule deer and white-tailed deer harvested in Units 14, 18, 23, 63A, 64, 69 and part of Unit 1 Source: IDFG Big Game 2026 Seasons and Rules (July 2026 - June 2027), p. 6. License year 2026. Checked Oct 26, 2026.
Motorized hunting rule
Motorized Hunting Rule end date changed from Dec. 31 to Nov. 14 Source: IDFG Big Game 2026 Seasons and Rules (July 2026 - June 2027), p. 6. License year 2026. Checked Oct 26, 2026.

What changed

2026
Nonresident general deer and elk tags moved to a draw starting with the 2026 season Source: IDFG Big Game 2026 Seasons and Rules (July 2026 - June 2027), p. 119. License year 2026. Checked Oct 26, 2026.
2026
Mandatory CWD testing for deer in Units 14, 18, 23, 63A, 64, 69 and part of Unit 1 Source: IDFG Big Game 2026 Seasons and Rules (July 2026 - June 2027), p. 6. License year 2026. Checked Oct 26, 2026.
2026
Motorized Hunting Rule end date changed from Dec. 31 to Nov. 14 Source: IDFG Big Game 2026 Seasons and Rules (July 2026 - June 2027), p. 6. License year 2026. Checked Oct 26, 2026.
2027
2027 NR general deer and elk draw: 1st period Dec. 5-15, 2026; 2nd period Feb. 5-15, 2027 Source: IDFG 2027 Nonresident General Deer and Elk Tag Draw supplemental proclamation, p. 4. License year 2027. 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.