Does Walmart Issue Hunting Licenses?

Introduction

Did you know that you can get your hunting license at Walmart? Any person that hunts for sport or recreational purposes in the United States must have a valid hunting license. While a hunting license is available from a variety of retailers, many people find it convenient to purchase them from Walmart. So the answer to the question, “does Walmart issue hunting licenses is Yes!”

Hunting is a sport and art that is loved by man for ages. The reasons at first were to meet the requirements of food, but with time, it turned out to be both a pleasure activity and population control.

But because people started to use dreadful methods of hunting that gave way to the extinction of many species. For this reason, nowadays, there are many laws formulated for the protection of animals. An example of such laws includes the necessity to have a hunting license. 

How Do I Get a Hunting License at Walmart?

The Process and Requirements for Getting a Hunting License at Walmart

The first step to obtain a hunting license at Walmart is to visit the store. Hunting licenses are no longer issued online. Visit your nearest store to find out more information about the process as each store issues different hunting licenses depending on the state. 

The Sports and Outdoor department within Walmart should be able to issue you with your hunting license. All you need to bring is your photo ID with you, regardless of whether you are a resident of that state or a non-resident. For residents, you may be required to produce proof of residency if it is not readily indicated on your ID.

How Much is a Hunting License at Walmart?

It is important to remember that not all states will charge the same prices for a hunting permit. In some states, a fishing permit can be purchased in conjunction with a hunting license even when you do not intend to go fishing at all. Some states also may provide a fishing license with the hunting license at the same inclusive price, and some other states may charge separately for each permit.

The prices you pay in Walmart are not any different to the prices charged in other authorized dealers and license issuing retailers or offices. It is because the license fees are already determined by the state. However, you may be charged a small processing fee.

Walmart stores that offer this service will have it listed in the license vendor section of your state’s wildlife department website. The price you will pay also depends on what type of license you want to purchase, for example, whether it is for only 24 hours, a few days, or even up to a year.

The price of a license also depends on the state you are in and whether you are a resident of that particular state. It is usually more expensive for a non-resident license than for a resident to obtain the same hunting license. 

Check Validity

Sometimes people often ask if their hunting is valid for use in another state. In many cases, you will only be able to use your hunting license in the state that it was purchased in. However, there are also some scenarios where your license may be valid for use in bordering states. 

There is a need to find out if your license is valid from the relevant authorities before assuming that you can and going on the hunt with your license. Though legally acquired it may have no legal jurisdiction hence still violate the state policy. 

Determining the Cost

At present, a hunting license is not costly and is slightly above the ten dollar mark inclusive of taxes. It is important to know that this pricing does vary according to the state in which it is purchased and processed. In cases where it is issued together with a fishing permit, the cost may sometimes be slightly higher. The best way to find out the cost of a hunting permit in your state is to contact your local Walmart branch.

Extra Cost

Most of the time people are worried about incurring an extra cost when applying for the hunting license in Walmart. However, this is a false assumption as all the taxes you have to pay is already included in the price of the hunting permit. 

Permits and Endorsements

To hunt wild animals, you may sometimes need special permits and endorsements to back up your licenses. Deer permits would cost different bear hunting permits for the same year. Turkey permits for residents will only cost slightly lower than for non-residents.

Trapping Licenses

Some people would prefer to hunt and trap and this must be indicated in the permit. There is a different fee levied for both hunting and trapping licenses. It is also slightly lower for residents than it is for non-residents. 

So it is necessary to obtain your hunting license before the hunting season opens. It would mean that while buying other necessary hunting equipment that you are qualified and authorized to hunt. Make sure that you do not use your acquired license for illegal purposes because you will have to deal with the legal ramifications when caught. 

What You Need to Know about Hunting Licenses

Why do You Need a Hunting License?

So here is a list of causes that will make it clear to you that hunting license is necessary:

Obtaining a hunting license shows you are properly trained with the skills of hunting, and you will not be reckless and put yourself or others in harm. You will not also use methods that might hurt the habitat or the animals in any way.

Having a hunting license is important for buying all the equipment that you will need before going for a hunt. When you go to buy the weapons and tools for hunting, you would be required to produce the license as proof of a qualified hunter. 

When applying for a hunting license, you must pay a certain amount of money. The money is used for more research, stocking, and the safety of the animals. Another use for the money is to fund education for rookie hunters. It is aimed to teach upcoming hunters of the best hunting practices. 

Who Needs Hunting Permits?

In most cases, everyone over the age of 16 qualifies to have a hunting license. All the way up to people aged 65 will need to purchase a hunting license that is renewable every year. Kids that accompany an adult who has a license will not need one. Anyone who is over 65 years of age will also not need to buy a hunting license. However, upon request, they should be able to provide any proof of age when at any time by a park ranger or game warden.

After you request for a hunting license in Walmart, it is normal that they will ask you to provide some form of identification at the time of purchase. The information should be factual and it should guarantee that you are permitted to hunt and that you have not violated the terms of a hunting permit in the previous years.

What is the Best Time to Get a Hunting License

Just like each state is different, each Walmart store is also different and so will the operating hours . Hence there is no definitive answer to how late one might be able to purchase a hunting license at Walmart. It is therefore for the best to check with your local store just to make sure they can issue a hunting license at the particular time that you need to obtain one.

Well, it is highly unlikely that you will always be able to purchase a hunting license around the clock. As this often depends if there is a trained member of staff. Licenses can only be issued by trained personnel. It may be a challenge to find personnel during overnight hours, as there may be limited staff in the sports department.

Hunting Accessories You Didn’t Know You Needed

Conclusion

Before you apply for a hunting license in any state, ensure that you contact your nearest Walmart store. Ensure you have all proof and necessary identification required from you. One thing this will achieve is the readiness of the right amount. Having the amount in mind helps you to set money aside for any tests should there be a need.  

Walmart is a useful store for purchasing your hunting license. There are plenty of locations across the country and in almost every state, with convenient working hours. Walmart stores are also handy and the customer service will most likely guide you through the entire process. 

No matter the state you reside in, it should not be challenging to find a Walmart store near you. Therefore obtaining a hunting permit should be a simple task. However, it is always a good idea to check with your state wildlife department,

Nonetheless, it is crucial to note that prices at Walmart are controlled by the state. The store is in and Walmart is just an agent in handing out licenses. 

Tobias

36 years old, been hunting and fishing my entire life – love the outdoors, family, and all kinds of hunting and fishing! I have spent thousands of hours hunting hogs and training hunting dogs, but I’m always learning new stuff and really happy to be sharing them with you! hit me up with an email in the contact form if you have any questions.