South Dakota offers a variety of hunting opportunities for residents and nonresidents alike, but there are some important differences in the type of license you should apply for, the cost and the species you're permitted to hunt.
Learn about South Dakota's different hunting licenses and find out how to get yours today.
South Dakota Nonresident Hunting License
A nonresident hunter is any person who does not reside in South Dakota, defined as having a fixed and permanent home within the state for at least 90 consecutive days immediately preceding the date of application for a hunting, fishing or trapping license/permit.
For exceptions, please review the residency requirements on the Game, Fish & Parks website.
Apply for Your Out-of-State Hunting License Today
What NONRESIDENTS Can Hunt:
- Pheasant
- Grouse and Prairie Chicken
- Partridge
- Dove
- Rabbit and Squirrel
- Ruffed Grouse
- Quail
- Coyote
- Prairie Dog
- Fox
- Ducks
- Geese
- Antelope
- Bison
- West River Deer
- Fall/Spring Turkey
Visit the Game, Fish & Parks website to view a full list of game by license type.
South Dakota Resident Hunting License
South Dakota residents have many hunting opportunities, including once-in-a-lifetime big game hunts. A resident hunter meets all of the following criteria as determined by the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish & Parks:
Have a domicile within this state for at least 90 consecutive days immediately preceding the date of application for, purchasing or attempting to purchase any hunting, fishing or trapping license/permit. A domicile is a person's established, fixed and permanent home to which the person, whenever absent, has the present intention of returning.
Make no claim of residency in any other state or foreign country for any purpose.
Claim no resident hunting, fishing or trapping privileges in any other state or foreign country.
Prior to any application for any license, transfer to this state the person's driver's license and motor vehicle registrations.
For exceptions, please review the residency requirements on the Game, Fish & Parks website.
Get Your Resident Hunting License Today
What RESIDENTS Can Hunt:
- Pheasant
- Grouse and Prairie Chicken
- Partridge
- Dove
- Rabbit and Squirrel
- Ruffed Grouse
- Quail
- Coyote
- Prairie Dog
- Fox
- Ducks
- Geese
- Antelope
- Bighorn Sheep
- Bison
- Deer
- Elk
- Mountain Goat
- Mountain Lion
- Spring/Fall Turkey
Visit the Game, Fish & Parks website to view a full list of game by license type.
License Information
Coming to South Dakota to Hunt the Greatest? Find out everything you need to know about pheasant hunting licenses and start preparing for the hunt of a lifetime.
