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New Mexico Hunting
Contact Info
PO Box 25112
Santa Fe, NM 87504
ph 505-476-8000
App Deadlines
March 19, 2025 (5:00pm MST)
Results Posted
2025: April 16 6:00am MDT
2024: April 17 6:00am MDT
2023: April 20 5:59am MDT
2022: April 20 6:00am MDT
2021: April 21 6:00am MDT
2020: April 22 6:15am MDT
2019: April 17 6:30am MDT
2018: April 18 10:00am MDT
2017: April 12
2016: April 27
2015: April 29

2025 Non-Resident Fees

$13 nonrefundable application fee included per species below
Game Hunting License (Non-Refundable)
$65.00
Junior Game Hunting License (Non-Refundable)
$15.00
Habitat Management & Access Validation (required)
$4.00
Habitat Stamp (Required by all who hunt BLM or USFS land)
$10.00
Bighorn Sheep
$3,173.00
Elk Q/HD License
$773.00
Elk S License
$548.00
Deer Q, Q/HD License
$368.00
Deer S License
$283.00
Antelope
$283.00
Oryx
$1,623.00
Barbary Sheep
$373.00
Ibex
$1,623.00


Number of Applicants in Party Application


Minimum Quota Needed if Applying in Non-Resident Draw


Minimum Quota Needed if Applying in the Outfitter Draw

Individual

13

7

2

25

19

3

44

25

4

63

38

 

New Mexico Hunting 2025

New Mexico’s 2025-2026 Big Game Hunting Rules and Information booklet is out. You can download a copy online by going to www.wildlife.state.nm.us/home/publications/, or you can call 888-248-6866 to order a copy.

The 2025 big game applications for all species in New Mexico must be submitted online before 5:00 p.m. MDT on March 19, 2025. The draw results will be posted on the Department’s website by late April.

New Mexico Species Specific Information
New Mexico Elk New Mexico Deer New Mexico Bighorn Sheep
New Mexico Antelope New Mexico Exotic Hunting Available New Mexico Hunts (HF Adventures)
New Mexico Bear New Mexico Mt. Lion  


REVIEW > NEW MEXICO 2026 LICENSE FEE CHANGES HERE

New Mexico Hunting

New Mexico Big Game Applications

The New Mexico Big Game Application Deadline is March 19, 2025 at 5:00 P.M. MDT.

New Mexico has an online and phone application process. Hunters may apply online at https://onlinesales.wildlife.state.nm.us The Department provides a telephone call center for help in completing and submitting applications. For help in completing applications, call 888-248- 6866.

Residents and non-residents may apply together on the same application. Up to four people may apply for elk, deer, antelope, and Barbary sheep; up to two people may apply for oryx and ibex; and only one applicant may apply for bighorn sheep.

An applicant cannot edit their application once it has been paid for, they may only withdraw it. If an applicant withdraws an application, they may reapply. However, they will again be charged an application fee and the full tag fee. Withdrawn applications will be refunded immediately, except for the $13 application fee.

application service

Details of the New Mexico Draw

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New Mexico guarantees a minimum of 84% of its special draw hunt tags for all species to its residents. They will attempt to issue 6% of draw tags to non-residents who are not applying with an outfitter and 10% of the tags to residents and/or non-residents who are contracted with an outfitter by using their outfitter’s ID number on the application. It is extremely unlikely for an outfitted applicant to draw a hunt code with 6 or fewer licenses or for a non-resident to draw a hunt code with 12 or fewer licenses. Applicants are given three regular, limited-entry application choices when applying for any big game species. When an applicant is drawn, all three choices are considered before the next applicant is drawn. An additional fourth or fifth choice may be offered, but these application choices do not pertain to regular hunt choices; rather, they apply to leftover tags or population management tags.

Successful applicants will be mailed a license/tag that will include the game hunting license, any stamps purchased, the big game license, carcass tag, and an antler/horn tag (if applicable) in one convenient document.

Hunters may choose the E-Tag option when purchasing or applying for any big game hunt. You will not receive a carcass tag if you choose this option. Hunters who choose the E-Tag will be required to download the E-tagging app on their phone, upload their big game license, and carry their phone in the field. A printed license and/or carcass tag is not required.

New Mexico Hunting

New Mexico law requires that any applicant who applies in the outfitter draw must have a signed Guide/Client Agreement. If the client draws a license by applying with a New Mexico outfitter’s number, they must be accompanied in the field by that outfitter or their registered guide for at least two days. After this requirement has been met, the client can then hunt on their own without the assistance of a guide.

Applicants are only allowed one tag in their lifetime for each of the following species: rifle ibex, “Premier” oryx hunts, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep ram, Desert bighorn sheep, and elk on the Valle Vidal. There are also once-in-a-youth hunts now available. There are no waiting periods for any other species or hunts.

New Mexico Big Game Fees

All applicants are required to purchase a game hunting license and a Habitat Management and Access Validation (HMAV) prior to applying. Upon submission of your application, you will be charged the entire tag, license, and application fees. Make sure the appropriate funds are available on your credit card. If unsuccessful in the draw, you will receive a refund for the full amount of the tag fee on your credit card, minus the non- refundable application fee of $13 per species. The $65 game hunting license is non-refundable.

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New Mexico’s deer and elk licenses vary in fee price, depending on each specific hunt code, and they will be listed in the regulations with the license type. These types are S-Standard, Q-Quality, and HD-High Demand. Keep in mind that the fees vary greatly based on the classification. Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express credit and debit cards are acceptable forms of payment. If successful in the draw, it is required that the hunter purchase and possess a $10 Habitat Stamp in order to use U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands in New Mexico. This may be purchased online at www.wildlife.state.nm.us, at NMDGF offices, from license vendors, or toll-free at 888-248-6866.

REVIEW > NEW MEXICO 2026 LICENSE FEE CHANGES HERE

Hunter Requirements

Hunters younger than 18 must have their hunter education certificate to apply or purchase a license and have it in their possession while out hunting or be registered in the Mentored- Youth Hunter program. NMDGF will only accept proof of out-of-state hunter’s education for youth 9 years of age or older. There is no minimum age to take NMDFG’s hunter’s education in-person course if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. There is no state law requiring a hunter to wear blaze orange; however, all hunters on military properties or hunters on any hunt on the Valles Caldera National Preserve must wear at least 244 square inches of blaze orange.

Age Restrictions

There is no minimum age to apply or hunt in New Mexico, but hunter education is required and has age limitations.

New Mexico Point Structure

New Mexico does not have a bonus or preference point system.

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The odds listed in our tables are the most realistic odds that take into account the first three hunt choices of each application as well as group applications.

New Mexico Hunting

Youth Information

New Mexico reserves some of the very best hunts and dates exclusively for youth hunters. See our tables for more information on the exclusive youth opportunities for Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, elk, deer, oryx, and ibex. Youth hunting licenses are only $15, and all species fees are full price. To qualify for youth-only hunts, applicants must be 17 years of age or younger on the opening day of the hunt.

Weapon Restrictions

Muzzleloaders may no longer have scopes of any style or power. This applys to all muzzleloader hunts. Only open or peep sights will be allowed. Muzzleloaders may shoot sabots, belted bullets, and an in-line ignition. Hunters are restricted to .45 caliber and greater muzzleloaders. There are a few “restricted muzzleloader” seasons in which this gear is not legal. Archery sights on bows may not project light, but lighted pins are acceptable. Arrows must have broadheads with cutting edges.

Other Tag Opportunities

All leftover licenses will be sold online only. The date that leftover licenses will be available for purchase will be posted on the NMDGF website after the draw. New Mexico issues transferable landowner tags for sheep and elk. Sheep tags are extremely difficult to acquire as most are bought years in advance and, in most cases, are rotated from a public draw tag to a landowner tag on a bi-yearly basis. Elk landowner tags may be good “unit wide” or “ranch only,” depending on how the landowner registered their property. For antelope, hunters must obtain a private land only antelope license and tag. You must hunt on private land in the unit for which the tag was issued, have written permission from the landowner, and a habitat management and access validation stamp. The deer tags are for private land only. A hunter must have a private land only deer license and tag as well as written permission from the landowner and a habitat management and access validation stamp. No one may have more than one valid license per species in a license year for deer, elk, or antelope. New Mexico offers a limited number of raffle tags for elk, deer, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, and Desert bighorn sheep through various wildlife conservation organizations. Refer to our January magazine for more information.

Customers may obtain a duplicate tag in person at any license vendor or NMDGF office. Duplicate licenses/tags will be charged a $6 fee. If a duplicate tag is obtained, the original tag number will be invalidated and the license must be reprinted. New Mexico offers several hunts exclusively for Mobility-Impaired (MI) hunters. Many of these MI exclusive hunts have great hunt dates. In order to qualify for this program, the applicant’s physician must sign and attest that mobility-impaired conditions apply. The MI license holder may use a crossbow during the archery-only season and may shoot from a stationary vehicle that is not on an established road or highway. Upon clearly wounding a legal game animal, the MI hunter may also be assisted by another person to track, retrieve, and/or kill the animal.

All hunting licenses are non-transferable and non-refundable, including fourth choice deer or elk hunts. Only the New Mexico Game and Fish Department Director may grant the refund or transfer of a hunting or species license. The only reasons that would constitute a refund or transfer are death, severe injury, life- threatening illness, a natural disaster that prevents the hunt, deployment by the United States military, or transferring to a youth or a resident veteran or resident first responder who has been approved through a non-profit wish-granting organization. For more information, contact the Special Hunts office at 505-476-8093.

Anyone who is licensed to hunt or take game on public or private land must report the results of their hunting or trapping season, whether or not they hunted. Licensed hunters who fail to report their harvest will have their future applications rejected. Harvest reports may be submitted by phone or online at www.wildlife.state.nm.us.

Access

New Mexico has a Habitat Management and Access Validation program where hunters, trappers, and fishermen on any lands must purchase a $4 stamp once during the year. Funds from the sale of these stamps will be used to lease private land for public use, provide public access to landlocked areas of public land, and provide for the improvement, maintenance, development, and operation of property for Fish and Wildlife habitat management. This validation stamp does not replace the habitat stamp.

New Mexico Wolf Update

The wolf population in New Mexico has continued to steadily increase, more than doubling in size since 2017. The most recent survey showed there to be a minimum of 257 Mexican gray wolves in the wild in the southern mountain ranges of New Mexico and Arizona. The population is dispersed amongst at least 59 packs. At first glance, these wolves appear to resemble larger coyotes. Be careful and know what you’re shooting at because they are currently under federal protection. Illegally shooting a wolf in New Mexico can come with a one-year jail sentence and a $50,000 fine.

Military, Veteran, and Disabled Veteran Programs

New Mexico acknowledges the sacrifices our armed forces have made for the country. They offer active duty military members the ability to apply for several special “Military Only” hunts. There is also a 50% discount for all licenses and stamps for resident active duty military or honorably discharged veterans.


Additional Resources

At Huntin' Fool, we provide a variety of resources for you to plan ahead! From applying for tags, researching draw odds, hunt consultations, and more, we have you covered!

Apply for License Applications
Schedule a Hunt Consultations
Research Draw Odds
Research Application Deadlines
Get Your Magazine!

 

Your Huntin' Fool Membership

A Huntin' Fool Membership is the one-stop shop! For $150 a year, get unlimited access to our Hunt Advisor Team and our full DIY tool set!

Unlimited 1-1 Draw Consultations. Learn More
> Digital Tools. Draw Odds, Harvest Statistics & Unit Breakdowns
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> Monthly Magazine. Unit breakdowns and analysis


 

 

NEW MEXICO HUNTING FAQ


When is the New Mexico draw for hunting? 
The New Mexico hunting draw occurs in multiple phases throughout the year, depending on the species. For bear and turkey draw permits, the application deadline is February 12, 2025, by 5 p.m. Mountain Time, with results available on February 19. The primary draw for most big game species—including Barbary sheep, bighorn sheep, deer, elk, ibex, javelina, pronghorn, oryx, and private-land only deer in specific units—has an application deadline of March 19, 2025, by 5 p.m. Mountain Daylight Time, with results released on April 23. For pheasant and sandhill crane draw permits, the deadline is August 13, 2025, by 5 p.m. MDT, and results are announced on August 20.

What big game animals can you hunt in New Mexico? 
Yes, in New Mexico, the big game animals you can legally hunt include deer, elk, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, Barbary sheep (also known as aoudad), oryx, ibex, javelina, black bear, and cougar (mountain lion). These species are all officially categorized as big game by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, with specific seasons, license requirements, and management strategies laid out for each.

How much is a hunting license in New Mexico?
The cost of a hunting license in New Mexico depends on your residency status and the type of license you need. A Resident Game-Hunting License costs $15, while a Non-resident Game-Hunting License is $65. Residents can also purchase a Game-Hunting & Fishing License for $30, and reduced fees are available for juniors, seniors, and disabled veterans. For example, a Junior Game-Hunting License (resident 17 & under) is $10, and a Senior or Handicapped Game-Hunting License is $15. Non-residents can also opt for a Temporary Game-Hunting License for $33 (valid for 4 days). In addition to the base license, big game hunting requires species-specific tags, which vary in cost—for instance, a resident draw deer license is $41, while a non-resident draw deer license ranges from $283 to $368, depending on the hunt category (standard, quality, or high-demand). Bear, cougar, pronghorn, javelina, oryx, ibex, and bighorn sheep all have separate fees that can be significantly higher for non-residents—up to $3,173 for a non-resident bighorn sheep license. Hunters are also typically required to purchase a Habitat Stamp for hunting on federal lands and a Habitat Management and Access Validation (HMAV) for most hunting and trapping activities statewide. Additional discounts apply for New Mexico residents who are active-duty military or honorably discharged veterans.

https://wildlife.dgf.nm.gov/hunting/licenses-and-permits/
  
How much does it cost to hunt out of state in New Mexico?
For non-residents, the cost to hunt in New Mexico includes several required fees and license costs. All non-resident hunters must purchase a Game-Hunting License for $65, a Habitat Management and Access Validation (HMAV) for $4, and a Habitat Stamp for $10 if hunting on U.S. Forest Service or BLM land. If applying for a draw hunt, there is an additional $13 application fee per species. Big game license fees for non-residents vary by species: deer licenses range from $283 to $368; elk from $548 to $773; pronghorn at $283; Barbary sheep at $373; javelina at $178; bear at $260; cougar at $290; oryx and ibex at $1,623 each; and bighorn sheep at $3,173. Over-the-counter licenses are available for some private land hunts, with deer licenses starting at $270 and other species like Barbary sheep, javelina, bear, and cougar also available at varying prices. All fees are annual and must be paid in full before hunting.
  
Does New Mexico have a lifetime hunting license?
Yes, New Mexico offers a free Lifetime Game-Hunting & Fishing License, but it is only available to New Mexico residents who are 100% disabled due to U.S. military service. Eligible individuals must apply for a Disabled Veteran Card through the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. This card grants the holder the ability to hunt small game, fish, and obtain a deer hunting license free of charge. However, the deer license must be applied for annually and is only issued if the cardholder draws successfully or has landowner permission for a private-land hunt. While the license covers many privileges, a $10 Habitat Stamp is still required when hunting certain species or on specific lands. Other residents—such as seniors, juniors, and those with disabilities—may qualify for reduced-fee licenses, but the only lifetime hunting license outlined is for 100% disabled veterans.

Does New Mexico refund fees if not awarded a hunting license?
Yes, New Mexico does refund certain fees if you are not awarded a hunting license through the draw system, but there are important conditions. When applying for species such as deer, elk, pronghorn, oryx, ibex, Barbary sheep, javelina, or bighorn sheep, the full license fee is charged upfront; if you are unsuccessful in the draw, the license fee is refunded, typically within 10 business days if paid by credit card, or by check if paid in cash. However, the application fee ($7 for residents, $13 for nonresidents) is nonrefundable, and the Game-Hunting License and any required stamps purchased to enter the draw are also nonrefundable, even if you're not selected. For fourth-choice deer or elk hunts, no refund is given if you're dissatisfied with the drawn hunt. Refunds are also issued if you are unsuccessful in a population management hunt (except if you accept a fifth-choice offer). Additionally, refunds may be granted under special circumstances such as death, serious illness, military deployment, or hunt cancellation due to natural disaster, but must be requested in writing before the hunt begins.

Can I hunt on my own land in New Mexico?
Yes, you can hunt on your own land in New Mexico, but you must still follow all state hunting regulations. As a landowner, you generally do not need written permission to hunt your own property, but you are still required to possess valid licenses, permits, and stamps for the species you intend to hunt. Private landowners may also be eligible for landowner-specific licenses, and in some Game Management Units (GMUs), "Private-Land Only" licenses are available, which restrict hunting to private property. If your land is part of a unitization agreement with the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF), additional rules may apply, and public hunters may be granted access. Trespass laws still apply—while you can hunt your land, others may not enter without your written permission, especially on posted property. The NMDGF provides a standardized permission form for landowners to authorize access to others. Even on your own land, you must comply with season dates, bag limits, legal weapons, and all applicable rules set forth by NMDGF.

Can you hunt on BLM land in New Mexico?
Yes, you can hunt on most Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land in New Mexico, including Wilderness Study Areas, as there are approximately 13 million acres of BLM lands open to public use. However, hunters must be aware of and follow any specific restrictions that apply to these areas. It's your responsibility to contact the appropriate BLM office in advance to check for access limitations, off-road vehicle regulations, or any ongoing activities like controlled burns that might impact your hunt. Access to public land through private property requires written permission from the landowner or leaseholder—crossing private land without permission is unlawful, even if your destination is public. Trapping is prohibited on public lands, including BLM land, and outfitters or guides operating there must have a district-issued permit. It is also unlawful for anyone to restrict legal public access to BLM land. Always confirm the latest regulations and land use policies before your hunt.

Can you hunt on state land in New Mexico?
Yes, you can hunt on certain types of state land in New Mexico, but it depends on the specific land and regulations in place. State Trust Lands are open to hunting and fishing for licensed hunters during established seasons under an agreement between the State Game Commission and the Commissioner of Public Lands. Trapping is not allowed on these lands, and hunters must follow rules regarding access, vehicle use, and license requirements—Private-Land Only Licenses cannot be used. Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) owned by the State Game Commission are generally closed to hunting unless specifically listed as open for designated species and game management units (GMUs), and often restrict nonresident participation. State Parks are closed to hunting unless explicitly designated open by the New Mexico State Parks Division. Some state-managed lands, such as research areas or safety zones, are closed to hunting entirely. Always verify access, licensing requirements, and current regulations with the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and the appropriate land management agency before hunting on state land.

Can you hunt the Gila Wilderness in New Mexico?
Yes, you can hunt in the Gila Wilderness in New Mexico, but you must follow all New Mexico state hunting regulations, including season dates, licensing, and legal methods of take. If you use a guide, they must be permitted by the Gila National Forest. Always check with the local ranger district for any area-specific restrictions.

Can you hunt with a crossbow in New Mexico?
Yes, you can hunt with a crossbow in New Mexico. Crossbows are legal sporting arms for hunting most big game species, including deer, elk, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, ibex, oryx, Barbary sheep, bear, and cougar, as well as for turkey, javelina, furbearers, upland game, and migratory birds. Some hunts, such as “muzzleloader, crossbow or bow only,” specifically allow crossbows, but others labeled “bow only” do not unless you qualify as mobility-impaired. Always check your hunt code and game unit rules to confirm crossbow use is permitted.

Can you hunt with a suppressor in New Mexico?
Yes, you can legally hunt with a suppressor in New Mexico. Suppressors are not prohibited by the New Mexico hunting regulations, and they are listed as legal for hunting use. Just be sure your suppressor complies with all federal laws, including proper registration.

Can you carry a handgun while hunting in New Mexico?
Yes, you can carry a handgun while hunting in New Mexico for purposes such as personal protection. However, handguns are generally not considered legal sporting arms for hunting most big game species, which require shoulder-fired firearms. So while you may carry a handgun, you typically cannot use it to harvest big game unless specifically allowed for the species or hunt type. Always check your hunt code and consult the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish for any specific restrictions.
 
Do you need a hunter safety license in New Mexico?
Yes, in New Mexico, hunters 17 years old and younger are required to have a Hunter Education number or a mentor-youth number to hunt. The Hunter Education number is valid for all game species, while the mentor-youth number—available to first-time hunters aged 8–17 who pass an online quiz—allows limited hunting under adult supervision. Hunters of any age must have completed a certified Hunter Education course to hunt on military reservations like White Sands Missile Range and Fort Bliss. Adults over 17 hunting elsewhere in New Mexico are not required to have Hunter Education, but it is encouraged for safety and may be required in certain cases.

When does hunting season start in New Mexico?
Hunting season in New Mexico begins on different dates depending on the species and the type of hunt, but the earliest seasons typically start in early August. Licenses for the 2025–26 season become active on April 1, with early sales beginning March 24. Some over-the-counter licenses, like for javelina and fall turkey, are available starting July 1. Pronghorn bow hunts can begin as early as August 5, and bighorn sheep hunts may start by August 10. Bow seasons for deer, elk, and fall turkey generally begin on September 1. Exact season dates vary by species, weapon type, and Game Management Unit (GMU), so it's essential to consult the New Mexico Hunting Rules and Information Booklet or the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish website for the most accurate information.