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Step 1
Take and complete an approved hunter safety course if you have never held a hunting license before. You do not need a license if you are under 16 and are accompanied by a parent or guardian.
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Step 2
Determine the best license for you. North Carolina offers short-term licenses, annual licenses and lifetime licenses.
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Step 3
Qualify for a resident license if you have lived in North Carolina or been domiciled there for 60 days. You may attend college in North Carolina or be a member of the Armed Forces, or the spouse or child of a service member to qualify.
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Step 4
Get certified in the federal Harvest Information Program (HIP) if you plan to hunt migratory game birds. You also will need the Federal Duck Stamp if you are hunting waterfowl. You can apply for a duck stamp or find your nearest duck stamp retailer at the duck stamp website.
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Step 5
Carry your big game harvest report card while hunting big game and report a kill by contacting an agent or calling 1-800-I-Got_One. You can also do this online at the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) website.
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Step 6
Apply with your nearest wildlife service agent or call 1-888-248-6834 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Have your credit card ready. You can also download a resident or non-resident application at the NCWRC website. Complete the application and mail it in along with the appropriate fees.
