Department of Fish and Game Web Maintenance July 12-13

Hunters Frequently Asked Questions

General Licensing Questions

Q:  Who needs a hunting license?
A:  A California hunting license is required for any person taking birds or mammals.  Hunters must carry licenses and be prepared to show them on request.  Fish and Game Code, Section 86 defines “taking” as hunt, pursue, catch, capture, or kill, or attempt to hunt, pursue, catch, capture, or kill.

Q:  What do I need to do to get my hunting license?
A:  Resident, nonresident, and junior hunters must present ONE of the following when applying for an Annual California Hunting License or Two-Day Nonresident Hunting License as proof of meeting California’s hunter education requirements:

  • An Annual California Hunting License issued in any prior year;
  • A Two-Day Nonresident California Hunting License issued after the 1999/2000 license year;
  • A written declaration which states that the applicant had a California hunting license in any prior year, but that license is now lost or destroyed;
  • A California certificate of hunter education completion or equivalency with a unique number imprinted on it ex: (AA00000) or a California hunter education certificate with a no unique number imprinted and a California hunter education validation stamp affixed;
  • A certificate of successful completion of a California-approved hunter education course from any state or province; or
  • A current hunting license or a hunting license issued in either of the two previous years from any state or province.

Q:  What is the minimum age requirement to purchase a hunting license?
A:  There is no minimum age requirement for purchasing a hunting license if the applicant can show proof of the hunter education. However, hunter education instructors generally ask that students be at least 10 years of age. Students must be able to read, write and understand the questions given on the written test required to complete the course.  Check with a Hunter Education Instructor in your area for his/her minimum age requirement.

Q:  Where do I purchase a hunting license?
A:  Hunting licenses are available from most License Agents and most DFG License Sales Offices.

Q:  Can I purchase a hunting license online?                                                                          
A:  Not at this time, but the DFG’s Automated License Data System (ALDS) is coming soon.

Q:  What type of Hunting Licenses, Tags and Stamps are available or required?
A:  You can find this information by visiting the DFG’s web site at www.dfg.ca.gov/licensing/hunting/huntdescrip.html.

Q:  What can you take with a Two-Day Nonresident Hunting License?
A:  Two-Day Nonresident Hunting License are available to any nonresident, 16 years of age or older, for taking resident and migratory game birds, resident small game mammals, nongame animals and furbearers for two consecutive days.  Not valid for hunting deer, bear, antelope, elk, bighorn sheep or wild pig.

Q:  Can I purchase a Lifetime Hunting License?
A:  Yes.  California residents may purchase lifetime hunting licenses.  You can find information about the lifetime license application process here www.dfg.ca.gov/licensing/lifetime/lifetime.html or by contacting the License and Revenue Branch at lrb@dfg.ca.gov.

Q:  Should I leave the Application for Duplicate License attached to the back of my Annual Hunting License?
A:  No.  Separate if from your hunting license and keep your Application for Duplicate in a safe place!

Q:  How do I replace a lost or destroyed current hunting license?
A:  You may obtain a Duplicate Hunting License by surrendering your current years Application for Duplicate to most License Agents and most DFG License Sales Offices and paying the appropriate fee. If you lose your Application for Duplicate or Duplicate Hunting License, you must purchase a new license at full fee. If you lose any additional stamps or tags, they must be purchased again at full fee. (Fish and Game Code, Section 1053b).

Q:  Can I purchase a hunting license for my friend?
A:  Yes.  You must show your friend’s California hunting license from any previous license year or his/her hunter education certificate as proof of meeting California’s hunter education requirements. You must also fill in his/her address on the license application. Your friend must fill in the remaining license information and sign the license before hunting (Section 705, Title 14, of the California Code of Regulations).

Q:  Do I have to complete a Harvest Information Program Survey?
A:  Yes.  If you plan to hunt migratory game birds (ducks, geese, coots, dove, band-tailed pigeon, snipe, gallinules or black brant) you must complete a HIP survey and affix a FREE HIP Stamp to your California Hunting License. HIP surveys and stamps are available at some License Agents and most DFG License Sales Offices. Hunters may be cited for hunting migratory game birds without a HIP stamp affixed to their license.

Q:  Is there a reduced-fee hunting license?
A:  Yes.  If you are a disabled veteran, you may be eligible for a reduced-fee hunting license, available only at DFG offices. To qualify for this license, you must submit BOTH of the following:

  • A letter from the Veterans Administration verifying that you have a 50 percent or greater service connected disability and were honorably discharged from the United States armed forces; and
  • Evidence of meeting California hunter education requirements.  (Fish and Game Code, Section 3033).

Q:  How do I replace a lost Disabled Veterans Reduced-fee Hunting License?
A:  Complete and submit another application.  In addition, you must submit the fee and proof of completion of hunter education course or a previous California hunting license.

Q:  Is there a reduced-fee hunting license for senior citizens?
A:  No. There are no provisions in the FGC or regulations allowing the DFG to issue a reduced-fee senior citizen hunting license.

Q:  Are there free hunting licenses available?
A:  No.

Q:  What “resident small game” species can I hunt?
A:  Section 257, Title 14, of the California Code of Regulations states “Resident small game" means the following resident game birds: Chinese spotted doves, ringed turtledoves of the family Columbidae, California quail and varieties thereof, gambel or desert quail, mountain quail and varieties thereof, blue grouse and varieties thereof, ruffed grouse, sage grouse (sage hens), white-tailed ptarmigan, Hungarian partridges, red-legged partridges, including the chukar and other varieties, ring-necked pheasants and varieties, and wild turkeys of the order Galliformes; and the following game mammals: jackrabbits and varying hares (genus Lepus), cottontail rabbits, brush rabbits, pigmy rabbits (genus Sylvilagus), and tree squirrels (genus Sciurus and Tamiasciurus). 

Q:  What “big game” species can I hunt?                                                                          
A:  Section 350, Title 14, of the California Code of Regulations states “big game"  means the following: deer (genus Odocoileus), elk (genus Cervus), pronghorn antelope (genus Antilocarpa), wild pig (feral pigs, European wild pigs and their hybrids (genus Sus), black bear (genus Ursus) and Nelson bighorn sheep (subspecies Ovis canadensis nelsoni) in the areas described in subsection 4902(b), of the Fish and Game Code.

Q:  What “nongame” species can I hunt?
A:  Section 472, Title 14, of the California Code of Regulations states except as otherwise provided in Section 478, Title 14, of the California Code of Regulations and Section 485, Title 14, of the California Code of Regulations, and subsections (a) through (d) below, nongame birds and mammals may not be taken.

(a) The following nongame birds and mammals may be taken at any time of the year and in any number except as prohibited in Chapter 6: English sparrow, starling, coyote, weasels, skunks, opossum, moles and rodents (excluding tree and flying squirrels, and those listed as furbearers, endangered or threatened species).

(b) Fallow, sambar, sika, and axis deer may be taken only concurrently with the general deer season.

(c) Aoudad, mouflon, tahr, and feral goats may be taken all year.

(d) American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) may be taken only under the provisions of Section 485 and by landowners or tenants, or by persons authorized in writing by such landowners or tenants, when American crows are committing or about to commit depredations upon ornamental or shade trees, agricultural crops, livestock, or wildlife, or when concentrated in such numbers and manner as to constitute a health hazard or other nuisance.  Persons authorized by landowners or tenants to take American crows shall keep such written authorization in their possession when taking, transporting or possessing American crows. American crows may be taken only on the lands where depredations are occurring or where they constitute a health hazard or nuisance.  If required by Federal regulations, landowners or tenants shall obtain a Federal migratory bird depredation permit before taking any American crows or authorizing any other person to take them.

American crows may be taken under the provisions of this subsection only by firearm, bow and arrow, falconry or by toxicants by the Department of Food and Agriculture for the specific purpose of taking depredating crows. Toxicants can be used for taking crows only under the supervision of employees or officers of the Department of Food and Agriculture or federal or county pest control officers or employees acting in their official capacities and possessing a qualified applicator certificate issued pursuant to Food and Agriculture Code, Sections 14151-14155. Such toxicants must be applied according to their label requirements developed pursuant to Sections 6151-6301, Title 3.

Hunter Education Requirements

Q:  I lost my California Hunter Education Certificate. How can I get a copy?
A:  Duplicate hunter education certificates can be issued to any person who completed and passed a hunter education class after 1989.  If the student took the class after that date, they should contact their nearest DFG License Sales Office to obtain a duplicate. 

The DFG does not have records before this date.  If the class was completed prior to 1989, the hunter should contact the original instructor, club, or organization where the course was taught to obtain a duplicate.  If the hunter is unable to obtain a duplicate through these means, they will have to repeat the course.

Q:  Who must show proof of hunter education when applying for a California hunting license?
A:  California requires hunter education training for ANYONE who has not formerly held a California hunting license, who does not have a hunter education certificate of completion, or who does not have a current, valid, hunting license from another state or province.

Q:  Where can I find information about Hunter Safety/Education classes?
A:  Visit the DFG’s web site at www.dfg.ca.gov/huntered/index.html or call your nearest Hunter Education District Staff. 

Q:  How old do you have to be to take a hunter education course?
A:  There isn’t a minimum age requirement to take the course, but young children may find the course demanding. A Hunter Education Instructor may be able help you decide whether your child is old enough to take the course.

Q:  Can I take a hunter education course online?
A:  Yes and no. California implemented an on-line course this year. There are currently two options for you, Kalkomey Enterprises and the International Hunter Education Association. Both of these sites have an on-line course that you can run through at your own pace. The on-line course will not get you a valid hunter education certificate. Once you have completed one of the on-line courses, you will still need to attend a four-hour home study/on-line class with a certified Hunter Education Instructor.  

Q:  I don’t have time to take a California Hunter Education course.  What can I do?
A:  The DFG offers a comprehensive equivalency testing program at DFG Regional Offices.  You may request information on this method of testing from the offices listed above. There is a non-refundable, administrative fee required to take the examination. If you fail the examination, you must take a hunter education class to become certified.  Warning! Not all states accept the equivalency certificate as proof of hunter education. All states will accept the certificate of completion that is awarded upon completion of a hunter education class.

Q:  Will you accept a Hunter Education Certificate from another state?
A:  Yes.

Q:  I have a hunting license from another country.   Why won’t you accept it as proof of hunter education?
A:  The DFG’s Enforcement Branch decides which countries provide acceptable hunter education training.  You may visit their web site at www.dfg.ca.gov/huntered/index.html or contact them by telephone at (916) 653-1235 for more information.

Q:  What will I learn in the Hunter Education Course and how long will it take?
A:  The Hunter Education Course consists of a minimum of 10 hours of classroom, homework, and field instruction in the following areas: firearms safety and handling, sportsmanship and ethics, wildlife management and conservation, archery, black powder, wildlife identification, game care, first aid, and survival. After a student has successfully completed the course of instruction and passed the final examination, they are awarded a Certificate of Completion. Parents are encouraged to participate with their children in the course and its related activities. There is not a minimum age requirement to take the course, but young children may find the course demanding.

A fee may not be charged for an instructor’s service; however, fees may be used to cover the purchase of training aids such as slides, flip charts, targets, and other training aids.   The Hunter Education Instructor makes the final decision in determining whether a student is qualified to receive a Certificate of Completion. A student who is unsafe, or fails to demonstrate good sportsmanship will not be issued a Certificate of Completion.  

Q:  Are senior citizens exempt from having to take a hunter education course?
A:  No.

Q:  Is a law enforcement officer (active duty, reserve or retired military) required to take a hunter education course even if I have had firearms training?
A:  Yes.  All first time California hunters must successfully complete a hunter education training course or pass an equivalency exam.  Visit our web site at www.dfg.ca.gov/huntered/index.html for more information.

Refunds, Exchanges and Transfers

Q:  If I cannot use my hunting license can I get a refund?
A:  No.  Hunting license fees are nonrefundable.

Q:  Why are hunting license fees nonrefundable?
A:  Hunting licenses may be used for hunting any legal game bird or mammal. The DFG must depend on the fees from the sale of hunting and fishing licenses for the majority of its funding for fish and wildlife programs and projects.

Q:  I requested a refund six weeks ago.  When will I receive my check?
A:  You should allow 12-16 weeks for a refund to be issued. The checks are issued from the State Controller’s Office, not from the DFG.

Q:  Where do I submit my refund request?
A:  Refund requests must be submitted to the DFG’s, License and Revenue Branch, 1740 N. Market Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95834.

Q:  If I do not get drawn for a premium deer tag, can I get a refund?
A:  Yes.  If you are unsuccessful in the drawing, you will be sent an unsuccessful deer tag drawing notice in the mail which lists available zones. You may choose one of these zones or request a refund by writing “Refund” in one of the choice boxes. Once a refund has been issued for your First-Deer Tag Application, you may not purchase another First-Deer Tag Application for the license year. You may, however, purchase a second-deer application. Refunds will not be issued for hunting licenses. Allow 12-16 weeks to receive your refund.

Q:  Can I get a refund of my deer tag if I am unable to hunt?
A: Premium deer tag fees (X zones, Additional Hunts, and Area-specific Archery Hunt Tags) are non-refundable. Deer tags for A, B, C and D zones and Archery-Only tags may be refunded, if you submit your request and the original tag prior to the opening of the archery season or the earliest season for which the tag is valid.

Q:  I have a general deer zone tag (Zones A, B, C or D) that I want to exchange but the archery season has already begun, can I still exchange it?
A:  No.  Once the earliest season for that tag has begun, you cannot exchange it. You will have to purchase a second dear tag application.

Q:  Can I get a refund if the specific area where I hunt has been closed because of fire?
A:  No.  Refunds will not be issued for emergency area closures due to fire, weather or any other condition.

Q:  I cannot use my hunting license or tag. Can I give them to someone else?
A:  No.  By law you cannot transfer a license or tag to another person (Fish and Game Code, Section 1052[a]).

Deer Tags

Q:  What is the minimum age to purchase a deer tag?
A:  Applicants must be at least 12 years of age at the time of application.

Q:  Why is there a non-refundable processing fee added to deer tag applications?
A:  A processing fee has been added to the application fee to help offset the cost of issuing tags and allows a greater portion of the application fee to be used for wildlife management and habitat projects.

Q:  Will you accept a faxed copy of deer tag applications?
A:  No.  You must submit the original application.

Q:  How long does it take to receive my deer tag by mail?
A:  You should allow 15 business days to receive your deer tag.

Q:  What can I do if I have not received my deer tag in the mail and it has been more than 15 business days?
A:  Complete a Certificate of Nonreceipt (CNR) and submit it to the DFG License Sales Office you mailed your original application to and a duplicate tag for the same zone will be issued.  If your application is not on file with the DFG a duplicate tag for a filled zone/hunt will not be issued. 

Q:  What is the difference between an A and an A1 deer tag?
A:  An A tag is valid for archery and general season hunting only in the A zone. An A1 tag is an Area-Specify Archery Hunt tag valid in the C zone.

Q:  What is the difference between a G1 and a C4 deer tag?
A:  A G1 tag is valid for the late hunt in the C4 zone only and is issued through the Big Game Drawing. A C4 tag is valid during the general season in ALL C zones and is issued on a first-come, first-served basis at most DFG License Sales Offices.

Q:  Where can I get leftover premium deer tag after the drawing?
A:  Leftover premium deer tags which do not fill by drawing are issued only through the License and Revenue Branch in Sacramento on a first-come, first-served basis (except leftover A1 tags, which are also available at the Redding office, A22, A31 and A32 tags, which are also available at the San Diego and Los Alamitos offices).

Q:  Do I need to return my deer tag to the DFG if I do not get a deer?
A:  No.  You only need to turn the report card in if you have taken a deer.

Q:  How do I replace a lost deer tag?
A:  Complete a Big Game Tag Affidavit and submit it to the DFG License Sales Offices you mailed your original application to along with a duplicate tag fee.  The DFG license sales office will verify that a tag was issued to you and will reissue you a duplicate tag for the same zone.  If your application is not on file with the DFG a duplicate tag for a filled zone/hunt will not be issued.

Q:  How are the quotas for the deer zones determined?
A:  Quotas adopted by the Fish and Game Commission are based upon recommendations made by the DFG’s Wildlife Branch. Tag quotas are based on individual deer herd management plans.

Q:  Why can’t I get my second-deer tag for a “D” zone or unfilled Additional Hunt until August?
A:  This waiting period allows first-deer tag applicants the first opportunity to receive a tag before the tag quota is filled.

Q:  Why can't I apply for a C zone tag on a second-deer tag application?
A:  Starting with the 2007/2008 hunting season, hunters can not use a Second-Deer Tag Application to apply for a C-zone tag.  For many years C-zone tags have filled on First-Deer Tag Applications prior to August 2nd.  Therefore, tags have not been available to hunters applying on Second-Deer Tag Applications.  This change allows hunters to apply for C-zone tags in a more efficient manner.

Q:  Who can validate deer tags?
A:  DFG employees, forest rangers, park rangers and others as listed in Section 708, Title 14, of the California Code of Regulations.

Q:  If I have additional questions regarding deer, where can I go on your web site to get additional information?
A:  You can visit the DFG’s Wildlife Branch web site for additional information.

BEAR TAGS

Q:  What is the minimum age to purchase a bear tag?
A:  Applicants must be at least 12 years of age at the time of application.

Q:  Why is there a non-refundable processing fee added to bear tag applications?
A:  A processing fee has been added to the application fee to help offset the cost of issuing tags and allows a greater portion of the application fee to be used for wildlife management and habitat projects.

Q:  Will you accept a faxed copy of bear tag applications?
A:  No.  You must submit the original application.

Q:  How long does it take to receive my bear tag by mail?
A:  You should allow 15 business days to receive your tag.

Q:  What can I do if I have not received my bear tag in the mail and it has been more than 15 business days?
A:  Complete a Certificate of Nonreceipt (CNR) and submit it to the DFG License Sales Office you mailed your original application to and a duplicate tag will be issued.  If your application is not on file with the DFG, a duplicate tag will not be issued. 

Q:  Do I need to return my bear tag to the DFG if I do not get a bear?
A:  Section 708, Title 14, of the California Code of Regulations requires all bear tag holders who are unsuccessful in taking a bear to return the report card portion of the tag to the DFG by February 1 of the current license year.

Q:  How do I replace my lost my bear tag?
A:  Contact any DFG License Sales Office to obtain a Big Game Tag Affidavit, complete it and mail it the office you mailed your original application to and a duplicate tag will be issued.  If your application is not on file with the DFG, a duplicate tag will not be issued. 

Q: How are the quotas for the bear tags determined?
A:  Quotas adopted by the Fish and Game Commission are based upon recommendations made by the DFG’s Wildlife Branch.  Tag quotas are based on individual bear management plans.

Q:  Who can validate bear tags?
A:  Only DFG employees may validate bear tags.  Also, the bear head must be presented so that the molars can be extracted for biological study.

Q:  I am not sure if I returned my last year's bear tag, may I purchase a bear tag application this year?
A:  The regulation requires any person legally taking a bear immediately have their bear tag validated by a DFG employee.  The tag may be presented to a DFG employee or returned through the United States Mail as specified in Section 708, Title 14, of the California Code of Regulations. These regulations also require all bear tag holders who are unsuccessful in taking a bear to return the report card portion of the tag to the DFG by February 1 of the current license year.  Hunters with questions or concerns regarding return of their bear tag report card should contact DFG’s Wildlife Branch at (916) 445-3565.

Q:  Can I hunt with archery equipment during the general season for bear?
A:  Yes.  You may use archery equipment during the general season as specified in Section 708, Title 14, of the California Code of Regulations.

Q:  If I have additional questions regarding bear, where can I go on your web site to get additional information?
A:  You can visit the DFG’s Wildlife Branch web site for additional information.

Big Game Drawings

Q:  When is the deadline to submit applications for the Big Game Drawing?
A:  Your application(s) must be received at the DFG’s, License and Revenue Branch, 1740 N. Market Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95834 by 5:00 p.m. on June 2, 2008.

Q:  How does the Big Game Drawing work?
A:  The DFG will run the draw within 10 business days of the application deadline.

  • After the application deadline, when all applicant information has been entered, the computer assigns each person (or party) a unique random number.
  • Just prior to the drawing, the computer sorts all applications according to first tag choice, preference point totals and random number.
  • The computer begins awarding first tag choices to applicants with the most preference points, in random order (starting with lowest number), until all applications have been processed.
  • After the preference point round is completed, unsuccessful applications are resorted by random number (starting with the lowest number), and the computer begins awarding tags based on applicant’s first-choice without consideration of accumulated points, until all draw-by-choice quotas fill or all applications have been processed.
  • All remaining unsuccessful applications are then sorted by second tag choice and the computer conducts a second round of drawings for any zones and hunts with tags remaining without consideration of accumulated points.
  • If tags remain after second tag choices have been processed, applications are sorted once again by third tag choice, in random number order (starting with the lowest number) and any remaining tags are awarded without consideration of accumulated points.
  • Applications not drawn in the third round are submitted for refund or hunters are notified of available tags so they may reapply.

Q:  What are the Tag Quota Splits?
A:   Premium Deer Tags (Excluding Apprentice Deer Tags)

  • Ninety percent (90%) of the individual zone or hunt tag quota shall be awarded using a Preference Point drawing.
  • Ten percent (10%) of the individual zone or hunt tag quota shall be awarded using a Draw-by-Choice drawing.
  • For zones or hunts with quotas less than ten (10) tags, one (1) tag shall be awarded using a Draw-by-Choice drawing.

Apprentice Deer Tags

  • Fifty percent (50%) of the hunt tag quota shall be awarded through a Preference Point drawing.
  • Fifty percent (50%) of the hunt tag quota shall be awarded through a Draw-By-Choice drawing.

Elk, Pronghorn Antelope and Bighorn Sheep Tags

  • For quotas of one (1), the tag shall be awarded using a Draw-By-Choice drawing.
  • For quotas of two (2), one (1) tag shall be awarded using a Preference Point drawing, and one (1) tag shall be awarded using a Draw-By-Choice drawing.
  • For quotas of three (3), two (2) tags shall be awarded using a Preference Point drawing, and one (1) tag shall be awarded using a Draw-By-Choice drawing.
  • For quotas of four (4) or more, seventy-five percent (75%) of the quota shall be awarded using a Preference Point drawing. The remaining portion of the quota shall be awarded using a Draw-By-Choice drawing.

Q:  I’m a hunter without a DMV ID number.  How do I get a DFG ID number?
A:  Hunters are automatically assigned a DFG ID number by our drawing system. If you applied in last year’s drawing, your DFG ID number is printed on your mailing labels.

Q:  How and when can I find out find out if I was drawn for a tag in the Big Game Drawing?
A:  On June 23, 2008, the drawing results will be available online or by contacting most DFG License Sales Offices.

Applying as a Party

Q:  Can our applications be mailed in separately?
A:  No.  Applications must be stapled together and mailed in the same envelope to apply as a party.

Q:  Can a member of my party be a nonresident or junior hunter?
A:  Yes, for deer drawings as long as they possess a valid annual hunting license and the junior must be at least 12 years old as of July 1 of the license year for which they are applying, or at the time of application if they are applying after July 1.

Q:  Now that nonresidents are able to apply for antelope and elk hunts, can they apply as a party?
A:  No, not more than one antelope or elk tag can be awarded to a nonresident, therefore they may not apply as a party.

Q:  Can one of our party members choose a different zone or hunt as their second or third tag choice?
A:  No.  All party members’ tag choices must be the same. The computer cannot separate party members’ half-way through the drawing process. (Section 708, Title 14, of the California Code of Regulations)

Q:  I am applying in the deer drawing and have the maximum number of points.  If I apply as a party with my hunting partner who does not have any points, are my chances of getting a tag less than if I applied alone?
A:  Yes.  The preference point value for party applications entered in the Big Game Drawing is determined by averaging all party members’ points (total preference points of the party divided by the number of party members).  Your party’s preference point value will be 5 (5 total points divided by 2.5 party members). If you applied alone, your preference point value would be 5 (5 total points divided by 1 party member).  If you apply as a party with a hunter with 0 points, your application will not be processed in the preference round of the drawing until all applications with greater than 2.5 points have been processed.  For many hunts, there are more maximum point applicants than there are preference tags, so your odds of drawing a preference tag would be very low.  However, there is always a chance your party could get drawn in the random portion of the drawing where success is determined strictly by your random number and the number of available tags.

Q:  The deer drawing statistics indicate that a hunter with one preference point was drawn for an X9A tag. I applied as a party and our point total was 1.67.  Why didn’t we receive a tag?
A:  Party applications are not split when there are fewer tags available than the number of members in a party.  Therefore, there may be party applications with a higher point value that did not receive a tag.  For example, when the final X9A tag was awarded, there were several party applications with greater than 1 point.  However, since there was only one available tag, these applications were bypassed.

Q:  All members of my hunting party were unsuccessful in the deer tag drawing. How can we reapply as a party for available tags?
A:  All party members must mark the same choices on their drawing notices, staple the notices together and submit them in one envelope to the DFG’s, License and Revenue Branch, 1740 N. Market Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95834. 

Preference Points

Q:  What is a Modified Preference Point System Drawing?
A:  Under a Modified Preference Point System drawing, tag quotas for each hunt are split into two portions: one portion awarded by preference point drawings; the other portion awarded in draw-by-choice drawings.  Quota splits vary, depending on the species, total number of available tags, or other special criteria (such as those for junior deer hunts).

Q:  How do I earn preference points?
A:  You may earn one preference point per year, per species, as follows:

Deer – Earn one preference point if you apply for the premium deer tag drawing but are not drawn for your first tag choice.

Elk, Pronghorn Antelope and Bighorn Sheep – Earn one preference point for each species if you apply for the drawing for that species but do not receive a tag.

Q:  When do I lose preference points?
A:  You lose all accumulated preference points for a species, as follows:

Deer – You lose all accumulated preference points when you are drawn for a premium tag as your first choice.

Elk, Pronghorn Antelope and Bighorn Sheep – You lose all accumulated preference points for a species if you receive a tag for that species.   

You also lose all accumulated preference points for any species if you do not participate in the drawing for that species for five (5) consecutive years.

Q:  Can I transfer my preference points from one species to another?
A:  No.  Preference points are earned for a particular species and cannot be transferred to any other species.

Q:  How will the DFG track my preference points?
A:  The DFG tracks preference points for current and future drawings using the information you provide on your drawing applications, including name, date of birth, and permanent hunter identification number (driver’s license number, Department of Motor Vehicles identification number or hunter identification number assigned by the DFG).

For the DFG to accurately track your preference points, you must provide the same personal information and hunter identification number on your drawing applications each year.  If you have changes or corrections to your name, mailing address, date of birth or hunter identification number, you must notify the DFG in writing at License and Revenue Branch, 1740 N. Market Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95834 or by email point@dfg.ca.gov (Section 708, Title 14, of the California Code of Regulations).

Q:  I do not wish to apply for a premium deer hunt this year.  How can I earn a preference point?
A:  You must first purchase a California hunting license and First-Deer Tag Application. On your application, write the point code (PD) as your first tag choice and mail to the DFG’s License and Revenue Branch.

Q:  If we apply as a party and are unsuccessful in the drawing, do we each earn a preference point?
A:  Yes.  Each party member will earn one preference point.

Q:  I am a junior hunter.  If I submit two applications for premium deer tag drawings, how are my preference points earned or lost?
A:  Junior hunters will earn one preference point if they are unsuccessful on your first choice hunt for both applications (only one preference point will be awarded, not one preference point for each application).  Junior hunters will lose all their deer preference points if they are drawn for their first tag choice on either their first-deer or second-deer application.

Q:  If I am successful in the premium deer drawing for my second or third choice, do I earn a preference point?
A:  Yes.  If you are not drawn for your first choice premium tag, you earn one preference point, even if you are drawn for a premium tag as your second or third choice.

Q:  I am unable to hunt this year.  Can I still earn a preference point for elk, pronghorn antelope or bighorn sheep?
A:  Yes.  You must first purchase a California hunting license. Complete the appropriate application for that species, write the “Point Only” code in the hunt choice box and mail your application(s) with the appropriate nonrefundable processing fees to the DFG’s License and Revenue Branch.

Q:  Do I earn a preference point if my application is received after the deadline?
A:  No.  Your application will be disqualified and no preference point will be earned if your application is late, incomplete, ineligible or received without proper processing fees.

Q:  If I apply and am unsuccessful in receiving my first tag choice and I request a refund of my tag fee, do I still earn a preference point?
A:  Yes.  You can receive a refund of your tag fee and still earn a preference point. Hunting license, application processing fees and license agent fees are nonrefundable.

Q:  If I am drawn for my first choice tag for a premium zone or hunt that does not fill in the drawing, do I still lose my preference points?
A:  Yes.  If you are drawn for your first choice premium tag, you lose all your points for deer, whether or not the tag quota fills for that zone or hunt.

Q:  If I am successful in the premium deer tag drawing for my first choice and I am unable to hunt, can I return my tag and have my preference point reinstated?
A:  No.  Once you are drawn for your first choice in the premium deer tag drawing all of your deer preference points are lost and can not be reinstated.

Q:  If I am drawn for an elk, pronghorn antelope or bighorn sheep tag, pay for the tag but I am unable to hunt, what happens to my preference points?
A:  Once you purchase the tag, whether or not you use it, you lose all preference points for that species.

Q:  If I am drawn for an elk, pronghorn antelope or bighorn sheep tag but do not purchase the tag, do I lose my preference points for that species?
A:  No.  If you do not purchase the tag, you will not lose your preference points for that species.

Q:  I have been unsuccessful in the draw for the last five years.  When did the DFG start tracking points?
A:  The DFG started tracking points in 2002.

Q:  My application for a premium deer tag was received after the drawing deadline. I will not receive a preference point for this year. Will I lose my points from previous years because my application was not received on time?
A:  No.  However, a hunter’s points are reduced to zero when they have not applied for five (5) consecutive years.  Applying late is considered the same as not applying.

Q:  How will the DFG notify applicants if they earned a preference point?
A:  Individual preference point information will be included in big game drawing information packets mailed to drawing participants each April.  If you have questions regarding your preference point totals you must contact the License and Revenue Branch, 1740 N. Market Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95834 in writing or visit our Web site at www.biggame.dfg.ca.gov/bgpoints after September to view your most current Preference Point totals.

Applying for Antelope, Elk and Bighorn Sheep Tags

Q:  I was drawn for a buck antelope tag two years ago.  Can I apply for a buck antelope tag this year?
A:  Yes.  There is no longer a 10-year waiting period for buck antelope tags (Section 708, Title 14, of the California Code of Regulations).

Q:  Who can apply for an antelope tag through the Big Game Drawing?
A:  Any person (resident and nonresident) who is at least 12 years old as of July 1 of the license year for which they are applying.

Q:  If I was drawn for an apprentice antelope hunt last year, may I apply again this year for another apprentice antelope hunt?
A:  Yes.  There is no waiting period for junior antelope hunters.

Q:  Who can apply for an elk tag through the Big Game Drawing?
A:  Any person (resident and nonresident) who is at least 12 years old as of July 1 of the license year for which they are applying.

Q:  Who can apply for a Nelson bighorn sheep tag through the Big Game Drawing?
A:  Any person (residents and nonresidents) who are at least 16 years old as of July 1 of the license year for which they are applying.

Q:  How many nonresidents may be drawn for Antelope, Elk or a Bighorn Sheep tag?
A:  Only one nonresident per license year may be drawn.

Private Lands Wildlife enhancement and management Program (PLM), Military and Cooperative Hunting Permits

Q:  How do I apply for a PLM tag or find out more information about the PLM program?
A:  If you would like information about hunting on PLM areas or making your land a part of the PLM program, please contact the Wildlife Branch at jlmiller@dfg.ca.gov or by telephone at (916) 445-3564.   When leaving a message requesting the list, please leave mailing address where it can be mailed.  

Q:  What are cooperative deer hunting areas?
A:  Provisions of Section 554, Title 14, of the California Code of Regulations, allows an owner/ title holder of not less than 640 acres of critical deer habitat within a deer quota zone which requires a drawing to apply for a cooperative deer hunting area permit.  Applications must be submitted to the appropriate DFG Regional Office prior to the first Friday in August.

Q:  Does the Department offer special deer hunting opportunities for military personnel?  A:  In cooperation with military installations, the DFG offers a limited number of tags for the public and military personnel in additional hunts G8 (Fort Hunter Liggett Antlerless), G9 (Camp Roberts Antlerless) and J10 (Fort Hunter Liggett Junior Either-sex).  The public tags are issued through the DFG’s Big Game Drawing and military personnel must apply directly to the Base.  Military personnel wanting to apply for G7 (Beale Air Force Base Either-Sex Hunt), G10 (Camp Pendleton Air Force Base Either-Sex Hunt), and G11 (Vandenberg Air Force Base Either-Sex Hunt) must apply directly to the Base.  These hunts are only available to military personnel.

Wild Pig Tags

Q:  What do I need to hunt Wild Pig?
A:  A valid California hunting license and a wild pig tag.

Q:  What is the minimum age to purchase a pig tag application?
A:  Applicants must be 12 years of age and older.

Q:  How many pig tags may I purchase?
A:  There is no limit on the number of tags a person may purchase but, pig tags are nontransferable and nonrefundable.

Q:  If I have additional questions regarding pig, where can I go on your web site to get additional information?
A:  You can visit the DFG’s Wildlife Branch web site for additional information.

Bobcat Tags

Q:  How do I purchase Bobcat Tags?
A:   Bobcat tags are only available at DFG License Sales Office or by mail by using the License Mail Order Form.

Waterfowl and Upland Game Bird Hunting

Q:  What kind of license do I need to hunt waterfowl?
A:  You need a valid California Hunting License, a California Duck Stamp and the Federal Duck Stamp if you are hunting waterfowl anywhere in the State.  You are also required to have a free Harvest Information Program (HIP) stamp.  Waterfowl means ducks, geese, coots, moorhen, and brandt. 

Junior hunters (anyone with a valid Junior Hunting License) do not have to have a State Duck Stamp.  However, once a junior hunter reaches 16 years of age, he/she will need a Federal Duck Stamp to hunt waterfowl.

Nonresident hunters can buy an Annual Nonresident Hunting License or a Two-day Nonresident Hunting License.  Both are available from most DFG License Sales Offices and some License Agents. 

Q:  Who needs a Harvest Information Program (HIP) Stamp?
A:  Every person who hunts ducks, geese, coots, dove, band-tailed pigeon, snipe, gallinules or brant is required to have a HIP Stamp.  For more information visit the Harvest Information Program web site.

Q:  Where can I buy a California Hunting License, California Duck Stamp and Federal Duck Stamp?
A:  California Hunting Licenses and Duck Stamps are available from some License Agents and most DFG License Sales Offices.  Federal Duck Stamps are available at U.S. Post Offices and some License Agents.

Q:  What are the fees for upland game bird and duck stamps?
A:  You can find the current fees here www.dfg.ca.gov/licensing/hunting/huntdescrip.html.

Q:  Do you need a Duck Stamp when hunting pheasants on a State-controlled area?
A:  No.  However, in addition to your valid California Hunting License, you will need an Upland Game Bird Stamp (except junior hunters, who don't need an Upland Game Bird Stamp). 

Q:  When do I need an upland Game Bird Stamp?
A:  Any person (except junior hunters) must have an Upland Game Bird Stamp when hunting pheasant, dove, turkey, quail, grouse, ptarmigan, snipe, band-tail pigeon, partridge or chukar.  The stamp is available at some License Agents and most DFG License Sales Offices.

Q:  Does a junior hunter need a Duck Stamp or Upland Game Bird Stamp?
A:  Any person hunting under the authority of a Junior Hunting License does not have to purchase a State Duck stamp or an Upland Game Bird Stamp.  However, once that hunter turns 16 years of age, a Federal Duck Stamp is required to hunt waterfowl.

Q:  Do I need steel shot to hunt waterfowl?  What about pheasants?
A:  Steel shot is required to hunt waterfowl anywhere in California.  On most national wildlife refuges and some state wildlife areas, steel shot is also required to hunt pheasant.  However, since requirements vary, check the Hunting on State and Federal Areas regulation booklet for the area(s) you want to hunt.  Remember, you cannot possess lead shot while hunting waterfowl, even during pheasant season.

Q:  How do I find out how the hunting has been on various refuges?
A:  Go to the DFG’s shoot results site at www.dfg.ca.gov/shoot/shoot.html.

Q:  How do I apply for a permit to hunt sage grouse?
A:  You can apply for sage grouse hunts via postcard or internet.  For more information visit the sage grouse web site.

Q:  Where can I find the results for the sage grouse drawing?
A:  Sage Grouse Results.


Waterfowl RESERVATION Drawing System

Q:  How do I apply for a reservation to hunt waterfowl at a State-operated wildlife area?
A:  The DFG uses an automated drawing system to award reservations for hunting on State-operated wildlife areas.  Hunters can choose from three types of applications:

The one-choice application can be used to apply for any one area and shoot date throughout the entire waterfowl season.  Hunters will need to fill out their name, address, hunting license number, and driver's license number, then choose the area and date that they want to apply for.

The five-choice application requires hunters to fill out their name and other personal information only once, but they can make five choices on the card, as follows: (1) choose the same area on five different shoot dates; (2) choose five different areas for one shoot date; or (3) choose a combination of different areas and shoot dates.  This form substantially reduces the amount of time hunters spend filling out waterfowl applications.

The season-long application requires hunters to fill out their personal information just once.  Hunters can then apply for every available Saturday, Sunday, and/or Wednesday shoot date for the entire waterfowl season at one of more hunt areas.  This application is very convenient and easy to use, as hunters can complete their entire season's worth of applications in just a few minutes instead of hours!

Q:  Where can I get the applications?
A:  The one-choice and five-choice applications are available from some License Agents and most DFG License Sales Offices.  Hunters who applied for reservations during the previous waterfowl season will be mailed a season-long application form in September.

Q: When is the deadline to apply for a waterfowl reservation?
A:  Your application must be received at the DFG’s, License and Revenue Branch, 1740 N. Market Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95834, 17 days before the selected shoot date.  Remember, just count backward by 17 days from the day you want to hunt. 

Q:  Am I limited to applying for only one area on the season-long application form?
A:  No.  You can apply for any area and any day on that form.  For example, you could apply for every Saturday at Delevan, every Sunday at Sacramento, and every Saturday and Wednesday at Little Dry Creek.

Q:  If I turn in the season-long form for certain days, can I use the One-choice or Five-choice application to choose other days?
A:  Yes.  You can use any combination of applications as long as you do not submit two applications for the same area and shoot date.

Q:  What determines my chance of being drawn?
A:  Your chance of being drawn depends on the number of reservations available and the number of people in each drawing competing for those reservations.  If you apply for a high demand area such as Delevan, Sacramento, or Kern, it will be tough to draw a reservation.  But if you apply for Grizzly Island, Mendota, or Gray Lodge, the odds of being drawn are much better.

Q:  I don't hunt during the first half of waterfowl season.  Can I use the season-long application to apply for the last five or six Saturdays of the season?
A.  No.  You must apply for all Saturdays, Sundays, and/or Wednesdays if you use the season-long form.  If you just want to hunt certain days, like the last half of the season, you'll save money if you buy the five-choice application and use it to submit your hunt choices, instead of using the season-long application.

Q:  Why aren't any of the Northeastern Zone areas on the season-long application, like Ash Creek or Honey Lake?
A.  We only draw reservations for these areas on a limited basis usually, just for opening weekend of duck season.  Persons wanting to apply for these areas may do so by submitting the One-choice or Five-choice Applications, which are available from some License Agents and most DFG License Sales Offices.

Q:  How do the waterfowl reservation drawings work?
A.  Information from reservation applications is entered into the computer database on a daily basis.  When it is time to perform the drawings, each choice in that drawing is assigned a unique random number.  The choice with the lowest random number will get the first reservation.  The choice with the next random number will get the next reservation, and so on, until the drawing is filled.

Example:  Joe and Jane Hunter each submit an application to hunt at Colusa on November 11.  Both Joe's and Jane's hunt choice (November 11 at Colusa) are entered into the computer database.  When the time comes to do the drawing, the computer will assign a unique random number to Joe's choice, another one to Jane's choice, and another one to every other choice of November 11 at Colusa.  When all of the “November 11 at Colusa" choices have a random number assigned to them, the choice with the lowest random number receives reservation number one.  The choice with the next random number receives reservation number two, and so on, until the total number of available reservations is awarded.  No random number is ever used a second time during the season.

Q:  If I'm drawn for two areas on the same day, will I get both reservations?  Or will the computer cancel my applications after I draw the first reservation?
A:  If your applications are drawn at two or more areas on the same day, you will receive a reservation to hunt at each area.  That means that you make the choice of deciding where you want to hunt that day, instead of the DFG determining for you.  For example, if you were drawn on the same day for reservation number one at Howard Slough, and reservation number three at Little Dry Creek, you probably would not want us to cancel your Little Dry Creek reservation because your Howard Slough reservation number was lower.  You can choose which area you want to hunt (probably Little Dry Creek) and someone in the sweat line at the other area (Howard Slough) will be happy that you didn't show up that day.

Q:  How will I be notified if am drawn for a reservation?
A:  You will receive a computer generated postcard from the DFG with general information about the hunt areas.  The other side will have your name, hunting license number, hunt area, and reservation number.  Hunters receiving a reservation present the reservation at the check station for admission to the hunt area.

Q:  Are the waterfowl drawing results available on the internet?
A:  Yes.  The reservation drawing results are available on the DFG’s web site.

Q:  According to the online reservation drawing results, I was drawn for a reservation. I did not receive my reservation postcard.  What should I do?
A.  Verify that your hunting license number exactly matches the hunting license number listed online.  The check station staff generally has a list of all reservation holders for their wildlife area.  To be safe, print the single page from the internet showing your drawing results and take it with you to the check station.  Be sure to bring your driver’s license or DMV ID card to the check station.   

Q:  Can I still hunt at a waterfowl area if I am not drawn for a reservation?
A:  Hunters who do not receive a reservation can enter the lottery for leftover spaces or the first-come, first-served line at most State-operated areas.  However, the Type B areas Ash Creek, Butte Valley, Honey Lake, Willow Creek, and Shasta Valley are open only to reservation holders on opening weekend of waterfowl season.  Honey Lake units are also open only to reservation holders on opening weekend of pheasant season.

Q:  What is the advantage of filling out one application for five refuges with different dates as opposed to five separate applications?  It seems like with the five separate ones, you would have five chances to be drawn as opposed to one application and one chance to be drawn.
A:  The advantage to using one five-choice application, instead of five one-choice applications, is simple: you only have to fill out one card instead of five cards.  That means you only have to write your name, address, hunting license number, and driver's license number once.  Every hunting choice, whether it's a one-choice, five-choice, or season-long application, has an equal chance of being drawn.

Q:  On some areas, the regulations provide for pheasant hunting on the first nine days of the pheasant season.  How do I apply for these dates?
 A:  For Wednesday, Saturday, or Sunday shoot dates, or for hunting pheasants at Wister or San Jacinto on Mondays, you need to apply through the normal reservation application process.  Otherwise, when hunting is allowed on a Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Friday, it is on a first-come, first-served basis at each area.  For details, contact the area you wish to hunt.