Yes, you need a hunting license to hunt hogs in Texas, even though hog hunting has fewer restrictions than hunting other game

Texas requires anyone hunting hogs to hold a valid hunting license, with one exception: landowners hunting on their own property do not need a license. If you are hunting on someone else's land, leasing hunting rights, or hunting on public land, you must have a current Texas hunting license. The license proves you have read the hunting regulations and understand the rules for the area where you plan to hunt.

Hog hunting is less restricted than deer or turkey hunting in Texas. You can hunt hogs year-round in most counties, use more types of weapons, and take more animals per day. But the license requirement itself is the same as for any other game animal. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) issues these licenses and enforces the rules.

Key Takeaways

  • A hunting license is required unless you own the land where you are hunting and are hunting only on your own property.
  • Texas hunting licenses are available online through the TPWD website, by phone, or at authorized retailers like sporting goods stores and some grocery stores.
  • Hogs can be hunted year-round in most Texas counties with no daily bag limit, but you still need the license to do so legally.
  • Your license is valid for one year from the date of purchase and must be on your person while you are actively hunting.

Who Does Not Need a Hunting License in Texas

Landowners hunting on their own property are exempt from the license requirement. This exemption applies only to the owner of the land, not to family members or guests hunting with you. If your family members or friends want to hunt on your property, they still need licenses.

Texas residents under 17 years old do not need a license to hunt, but they must have written permission from a parent or guardian and must be supervised by a licensed hunter who is at least 18 years old. The supervising adult does not have to be related to the young hunter.

Types of Hunting Licenses Available in Texas

Texas offers several hunting license options depending on your residency status and how often you plan to hunt. A resident annual hunting license is the most common choice and covers all legal hunting in Texas for one year. A non-resident annual hunting license costs more but gives non-residents the same hunting rights for a year.

If you hunt only occasionally, Texas sells 5-day hunting licenses for both residents and non-residents. These are cheaper than annual licenses but expire five days after purchase. Texas also offers one-day hunting licenses, though these are less common and may not be available through all retailers.

Active military members and veterans with service-connected disabilities may be may be able to access for reduced-cost or free licenses. Contact TPWD directly to learn what documentation you need to provide.

How to Get a Hunting License in Texas

The fastest way to get a license is online through the TPWD website at tpwd.texas.gov. You will need a valid Texas driver's license or ID number, your Social Security number, and a credit or debit card. The license is issued when ready as a PDF that you can print or save to your phone. You do not have to wait for anything to arrive by mail.

You can also buy a license by phone by calling 1-800-895-4248. A TPWD representative will walk you through the process and email or mail your license. Phone sales take longer than online purchases because the license must be processed by staff.

Authorized retailers throughout Texas sell hunting licenses in person. These include Academy Sports + Outdoors, Cabela's, Bass Pro Shops, and many local sporting goods stores. Some Walmart and HEB locations also sell licenses. Buying in person takes a few minutes, and you receive your license when ready.

What Information You Need to Buy a License

Have your Texas driver's license or state ID ready before you start the purchase process. You will also need your Social Security number. If you are buying online or by phone, you will need a credit or debit card. If you are buying in person at a retailer, they accept cash, card, or check depending on the store's policy.

If you do not have a Texas ID, you can use a valid out-of-state driver's license to buy a non-resident license. You will still need your Social Security number.

License Cost and How Long It Lasts

Hunting license prices vary by residency status and license type. A resident annual hunting license costs less than a non-resident annual license. A 5-day license costs less than an annual license. Prices change occasionally, so check the TPWD website for current rates before you buy.

All hunting licenses are valid for one year from the date of purchase, regardless of type. Your license expires on the same date each year. If you buy a license on March 15, it expires on March 14 of the following year. You must renew before that date if you want to continue hunting legally.

What You Must Carry While Hunting

Your hunting license must be on your person at all times while you are actively hunting. This means you need to have it with you in the field, not just in your vehicle or at home. If a game warden stops you and asks to see your license, you must be able to produce it when ready.

If you printed your license at home, bring the printed copy. If you saved it to your phone, show the digital version. Both are equally valid. Some hunters laminate their printed licenses to protect them from weather and wear.

Hog-Specific Hunting Rules in Texas

Even with a hunting license, you must follow the rules for where and how you hunt hogs. Hogs can be hunted year-round in most Texas counties with no daily bag limit and no season closure. This makes hog hunting more flexible than hunting deer or turkey, which have specific seasons.

You can hunt hogs with rifles, shotguns, handguns, bows, and crossbows. Some areas have additional restrictions on weapon type or hunting method, so check the specific county or property rules before you go. On public land managed by TPWD, hog hunting rules may differ from private land rules.

Hogs are considered a nuisance animal in Texas, and landowners often welcome hunters to remove them. If you are hunting on someone else's property, always get written permission first, even if you know the landowner personally. Trespassing to hunt is illegal, and the landowner can press charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I hunt hogs on my own land without a license?

Yes. Texas law exempts landowners from the hunting license requirement when hunting on their own property. You must own the land or have a deed showing ownership. If you lease the land, you need a license.

What happens if I get caught hunting without a license?

Hunting without a license is a violation of Texas Parks and Wildlife Code. Penalties include fines, loss of hunting privileges, and possible criminal charges depending on the circumstances. Game wardens have authority to stop and check licenses in the field.

Do I need a separate license to hunt hogs versus deer?

No. A single hunting license covers all legal hunting in Texas, including hogs, deer, turkey, and other game. You do not buy separate licenses for different animals. However, some animals have specific seasons or bag limits that explore even with a valid license.

Can I buy a hunting license for just one day?

Yes. Texas sells one-day hunting licenses, though availability varies by retailer. A one-day license is cheaper than a 5-day license but more expensive per day. Check with TPWD or local retailers to see if one-day licenses are currently available in your area.

If I renew my driver's license, do I need to renew my hunting license too?

No. Your hunting license and driver's license are separate and expire on different dates. Renewing your driver's license does not affect your hunting license. You must renew each one independently when it expires.