Ultimate Guide to Applying for Utah Hunting Tags in 2025
Thinking about applying for Utah hunting tags in 2025? Whether you're a resident hunter or a nonresident planning a Western big game hunt, the above video breaks down everything you need to know—application deadlines, draw odds, species options, over-the-counter tags, and how to save money while boosting your odds. Having an Insider membership makes doing all of your hunting research a breeze. Be sure to check out our Application Strategy Articles that will explain everything in more detail.
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Insider makes it easy to find tag opportunities by state, species, probability of draw odds success, and much more! Whether you're new to the application system or have been at it for decades, Insider gives you the information you need to plan a successful hunt. In addition to our research tools, all Insiders have access to GOHUNT Maps on the web and mobile app. In addition to all these benefits, you can access our Insider research tools on our mobile app! It's the only complete and full package set of tools to help you find the hunt you want this year or to help you plan for hunts in the future.
If you're unfamiliar with Insider, check out the link below.
Utah Hunting Application Dates for 2025
Application Opens: March 20, 2025
Deadline to Apply: April 24, 2025, at 11 p.m. MT
You must create an online Utah Division of Wildlife Resources account to get started.
You may apply online here.
Hunting License Requirements in Utah
Before applying, a valid hunting license is required:
Resident License: $40
Nonresident License: $120
The license is valid for 365 days—strategically buying late in the season can allow for two years of applications on one license.
There will be some increased fees going into effect this summer. Nonresident hunting license will increase from $120 to $144. Learn more about the approved increased in Utah fees here.
Utah Hunting Application Fees Breakdown
Besides your license, you'll pay:
$10 per species (Residents)
$16 per species (Nonresidents)
2.2% processing fee (online)
Estimated Total Cost: ~$160–$180+, depending on species selection
Learn more about all of the Utah fees in our State Profile:
What Tags Can You Apply For In Utah
For Utah Residents:
1 Limited Entry Species: Elk, Mule Deer, or Pronghorn
1 Once-in-a-Lifetime Species: Moose, Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat, or Bison
1 General Season Deer Hunt or Dedicated Hunter Program
For Nonresidents:
Apply for all species (limited entry + once-in-a-lifetime)
One General Deer option: Dedicated or General Season
What is the Utah Dedicated Hunter Program?
3-year participation program
Hunt all seasons (archery, muzzleloader, rifle)
Harvest up to two bucks over three years
Must complete 32 volunteer hours or pay $40/hour to buyout the hours
Program Cost:
$215 (Residents)
$1,067 (Nonresidents)
Best for hunters who can spend time scouting and hunting multiple seasons.
Understanding Utah’s Hunting Draw Systems
Bonus Point Hybrid System (For Limited Entry & Once-in-a-Lifetime Tags)
50% of tags go to highest point holders
50% are randomly drawn, with weighted odds based on points
Pro Tip: Always apply—don’t just buy points. The random draw gives everyone a chance to draw a premier tag.
Preference Point System (General Season & Dedicated Deer)
100% based on preference points
No random element: more points = higher chance
Group Applications in Utah
Up to four hunters can apply together (except for once-in-a-lifetime tags which don’t allow group apps)
Utah averages group points and rounds down to the nearest whole number
Residents and nonresidents can apply together, but nonresident quotas apply
Utah will not over-allocate tags to accommodate group sizes.
Permit Surrender Policy
You can surrender your permit 30 days before the hunt
Your original points are reinstated
You won’t earn a new point for that year
Antlerless Hunting & Cow Elk Tags in Utah
Draw opens in early June
Based on the preference point system
Note: Can also apply for bonus points only and preference points during this time if you missed the main draw
Over-the-Counter Elk Tags in Utah
“Any Bull” Units: Sparse elk or limited access, but over-the-counter tags available
Spike Elk Tags: Available in all limited entry units, sold mid-July
Archery, Muzzleloader, and Rifle options for spike elk
Best suited for hunters who do deep research and want a do-it-yourself experience.
Utah Hunting Seasons – Archery, Rifle, Muzzleloader & More
Utah offers expanded hunting season options in 2025:
Early Archery & Muzzleloader Hunts
Midseason Rifle Elk Hunts In October
Late-Season Archery December Elk Tags
New options aim to spread out hunting pressure and increase draw success
Plan your hunt based on weapon preference, season timing, and scouting availability.
Final Thoughts: Should You Apply in Utah?
Absolutely. Despite tough draw odds:
High-quality elk and deer hunting
Random draw factor gives everyone a shot
Plan to draw general deer tags every 3–5 years
Over-the-counter elk tags = backup plan
Use your GOHUNT Insider tools to research draw odds, tag availability, and unit details. They give you the edge.