Yes, you need a hunting license to hunt hogs in Texas, with narrow exceptions

Texas requires a hunting license for hog hunting on public land and most private land. The main exception is if you own the land outright or have written permission from the landowner and are hunting on that specific property — even then, you must follow all other state hunting rules. A standard hunting license costs $25 for Texas residents and $76 for non-residents and covers hog hunting along with other game.

Hogs are classified as a non-game animal in Texas, which means there is no closed season, no bag limit, and no specific licensing tier required just for hogs. You can hunt them year-round on land where you have the right to hunt. However, the license itself is what the state requires you to carry, not a separate hog tag or permit.

Key Takeaways

  • A standard hunting license is required to hunt hogs in Texas unless you own the land or have written landowner permission.
  • Hogs have no closed season and no bag limit in Texas, so you can hunt them any time of year on permitted land.
  • A resident hunting license costs $25 and is valid for one year from the date of purchase.
  • You must carry your license with you while hunting and show it to a game warden if asked.
  • Landowners can hunt hogs on their own property without a license, but must still follow firearm and safety regulations.

Who does not need a hunting license for hogs

Texas law exempts landowners hunting on their own property. If you own the land, you can hunt hogs without a license. This exemption applies only to the owner and does not extend to family members or guests unless they obtain their own license.

Tenants and lessees do not fall under the landowner exemption. If you rent land or lease hunting rights, you need a hunting license. The same applies if you have verbal permission from a landowner — Texas requires written permission, and even with it, you still need a license unless you are the owner.

License types and costs for Texas residents

Texas offers several hunting license options. The standard All-Game Hunting License costs $25 for residents and covers all game animals, including hogs, for one year. A 5-Day Hunting License costs $20 and is valid for five consecutive days, useful if you hunt occasionally or are visiting. A 1-Day Hunting License costs $10 and covers a single calendar day.

Residents aged 65 and older can purchase a discounted license for $8. Disabled hunters may may have access to for a free license through the Disabled Hunters Program, which requires a completed process and proof of disability. Youth under 17 can hunt without a license if they are supervised by a licensed adult, though the adult must have a valid license.

License costs and rules for non-residents

Non-residents pay $76 for an annual All-Game Hunting License, valid for one year from purchase. A 5-Day Non-Resident Hunting License costs $48. A 1-Day Non-Resident Hunting License costs $20. These licenses cover the same animals as resident licenses, including hogs.

Non-residents must carry their license at all times while hunting. If you are visiting Texas to hunt hogs, you can purchase a license online through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website, by phone, or at authorized retailers. The license is typically issued when ready for online purchases.

Where to buy a hunting license in Texas

You can purchase a hunting license online through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website (tpwd.texas.gov). Online purchases are processed when ready, and you can print your license or display it on your phone. This is the fastest option if you need a license before heading out to hunt.

You can also buy licenses at authorized retailers across Texas, including sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and some Walmart locations. Call ahead to confirm the retailer has the license type you need in stock. Game wardens and Texas Parks and Wildlife offices also sell licenses during business hours.

What to carry and show to a game warden

You must carry your hunting license with you while hunting hogs. A printed copy or a digital copy on your phone both satisfy the requirement. If a game warden stops you, you must show your license on demand. Hunting without a license or failing to produce one when asked is a violation and can result in a fine.

Keep your license in a waterproof pocket or bag to protect it from damage. If your license is lost or damaged, you can purchase a replacement at any authorized retailer or online. There is no additional fee for a replacement — you pay the standard license price again.

Hog hunting rules beyond the license requirement

Having a license does not mean you can hunt hogs anywhere or any way you choose. You must hunt on land where you have the right to hunt — your own property, leased land, or land where the owner has given written permission. You must also follow all firearm regulations, including using legal weapons and hunting during daylight hours unless you have a special permit for night hunting.

Hogs can be hunted with rifles, shotguns, handguns, bows, and crossbows, depending on the season and weapon type. Poison and explosives are illegal. Some counties and cities have additional restrictions on firearm use, so check local ordinances before you hunt. Trespassing to hunt hogs is illegal even if you have a valid license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I hunt hogs on someone else's land without a license if they give me permission?

No. You need a hunting license even with the landowner's written permission. The only exemption is for the landowner hunting on their own property. If you are a guest or lessee, you must have a valid hunting license.

Do I need a separate tag or permit for hogs beyond the hunting license?

No. Hogs are classified as non-game animals in Texas, so there is no tag, stamp, or special permit required. Your hunting license covers hog hunting. You do not need to report your harvest to the state.

What happens if a game warden stops me and I do not have my license?

Hunting without a license is a violation. You may receive a citation and fine. Always carry your printed or digital license while hunting. If you forgot it at home, you can show the warden your receipt or purchase confirmation if you bought it online.

Can my child hunt hogs with me without a license?

Children under 17 can hunt without a license if they are directly supervised by a licensed adult. The adult must have a valid hunting license and be present and in control during the hunt. Once your child turns 17, they need their own license.

Is there a discount for military members or veterans?

Texas does not offer a military or veteran discount on hunting licenses. However, disabled veterans may may have access to for a free license through the Disabled Hunters Program. Contact Texas Parks and Wildlife to learn about the process process and required documentation.