← District of Columbia hunting laws›Hunting License

District of Columbia Hunting License (2026)

Restricted: Hunting is illegal throughout the District of Columbia — DC has no hunting seasons or licenses.

RestrictedVerified Jun 19, 2026

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Hunting is illegal throughout the District of Columbia — DC has no hunting seasons or licenses. Residents hunt in MD/VA instead.

Official source: doee.dc.gov →

General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.

Hunting License in states bordering District of Columbia

The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.

MarylandRestricted
Maryland requires a hunting license, and first-time hunters need a Certificate of Competency in Hunter Safety unless they held a Maryland license before July 1, 1977. Licenses are available through MD DNR.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: dnr.maryland.gov · Full Maryland rule →
VirginiaRestricted
Virginia requires a hunting license, and hunter education is mandatory for hunters age 12-15 or anyone who has never held a regular hunting license. Licenses, including an apprentice license, are available through Virginia DWR.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: dwr.virginia.gov · Full Virginia rule →

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