Buying a Washington Licence After You Draw
It’s a uniquely Washington thing that you can apply for special hunting permits without holding a valid annual hunting license, which can feel a bit backward if you’re used to other states. This often leaves hunters scratching their heads, wondering exactly what to do if the impossible happens and their name is actually drawn. If you've just seen that coveted "Successful" status pop up in your WDFW WILD account, congratulations! Now, let's talk about the essential next steps: how to properly secure your Washington hunting license after you've drawn that special permit.
Understanding Washington's Application System
Washington’s system for special hunt applications is a little different from many other states, and it can definitely cause some confusion. Instead of requiring you to purchase your general hunting license and a big game tag before you even apply for special permits, Washington allows you to put in for those coveted draws without the upfront cost of a full license. This is a pretty hunter-friendly approach, especially if you're applying for multiple species or truly long-shot permits; it saves you money if your luck doesn't pan out.
Think about it: in a state where draw odds can be long, especially for quality elk or high-demand deer permits, forcing everyone to buy a full general season license, plus a deer or elk tag, just to apply would deter a lot of hopeful hunters. Washington's method of letting you apply for a special permit, and only then requiring the purchase of a general hunting license and the specific big game tag if you draw, makes it more accessible. This flexibility means you only pay the full freight once you know you have a hunt to go on. Many hunters meticulously research their options and odds using resources like GoHunt, and this system allows them to apply for several options without a massive initial investment. It’s definitely a unique wrinkle, but one that ultimately benefits the hunter. For more details on applying, check out our guide on Washington Special Hunt Permits and How to Apply.
Activating Your Successful Draw: The License Purchase Process
So, you've logged into your WILD account, perhaps with a knot in your stomach, and there it is: "Successful." That initial rush of excitement is incredible! But hold your horses for a moment, because simply drawing the permit isn't the final step. To make that permit valid, you must purchase a valid Washington hunting license for the current season, along with the specific big game transport tag that corresponds to your drawn permit.
First things first, head back to your WDFW WILD account online. You’ll typically see an option to "Purchase License" or "Claim Permit" associated with your successful draw. This will guide you through adding the necessary items to your cart. For most big game hunters, this means purchasing the Washington Big Game Combo license. This all-encompassing package usually includes your general hunting license, a deer tag, an elk tag (you'll choose Eastside or Westside, and weapon type during this process if you haven't already), and often a bear and cougar tag too. If you’ve drawn a moose, sheep, or goat permit, that specific permit will be added alongside your general hunting license.
Here's a breakdown of what you'll typically need to purchase:
| Item Type | Description | Cost Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Hunting License | The base license required for any hunting in Washington. | Mandated. Included in combo packages. |
| Big Game Combo (Resident) | Includes the annual hunting license, one deer tag, one elk tag, one bear tag, one cougar tag. | Most common purchase for resident big game hunters. Refer to Washington Resident Big Game Combo Price. |
| Big Game Combo (Nonresident) | Includes the annual hunting license, one deer tag, one elk tag, one bear tag, one cougar tag. | Significantly higher cost for non-residents. Refer to Washington Nonresident Big Game Combo Price. |
| Specific Big Game Transport Tag | The actual tag (e.g., elk, deer, moose) that corresponds to your drawn special permit. | Included in the combo package for deer/elk. For moose/sheep/goat, a separate fee applies on top of the license. |
| Bear Tag | If hunting bear and not covered by your combo or specific permit. | Often included in combo. See Bear and Cougar Included in the Washington Combo. |
| Cougar Tag | If hunting cougar and not covered by your combo or specific permit. | Often included in combo. See Bear and Cougar Included in the Washington Combo. |
During this purchase, you'll be asked to declare which side of the state your elk tag is for (East or West) and your weapon choice (modern firearm, archery, or muzzleloader) if you've drawn a general season elk permit that requires it. Even if you drew a special permit, you will still need to designate these specifics if your permit is for a particular weapon or area. It's a critical step that finalizes your intent and allows WDFW to issue the correct physical tag. Don't gloss over these choices! If you have specific questions about weapon choices, our article on Picking a Weapon Type for Your Elk Tag can help.
Essential Considerations After Drawing a Permit
Drawing a special permit is fantastic, but it comes with a few crucial responsibilities and deadlines you absolutely cannot miss. Getting this wrong could invalidate your hard-earned permit, and nobody wants that heartbreak.
Don't Delay Your License Purchase
The biggest mistake you can make after drawing a special permit is assuming you have forever to buy your license. While the immediate rush of the draw results is exciting, there's usually a clear window within which you must purchase your license and tag. WDFW sets deadlines for this, and missing them can result in forfeiting your permit. Imagine drawing a once-in-a-lifetime tag only to lose it because you forgot to buy the actual license! Always mark your calendar with the purchase deadline, which is usually clearly stated in your draw notification or on the WDFW website. Proactive hunters often utilize platforms like GoHunt that provide personalized deadline reminders and unit information to keep everything straight.
Hunter Education Requirements
Before you can legally purchase any hunting license in Washington, you must either have a valid hunter education certificate on file with WDFW or apply for a one-time deferral. If you’ve never hunted in Washington before or if your hunter education certificate from another state hasn’t been recorded, this is a critical step. You absolutely cannot skip it. While you can apply for special permits without having completed hunter education, you cannot buy the license and tag you need to hunt unless this requirement is met.
For many new hunters, or those who let their previous certificates lapse, completing a Washington Hunter Education course is mandatory. This includes both an online component and a field skills day. However, Washington does offer a one-time hunter education deferral for first-time adult hunters, which allows them to hunt for one season under the direct supervision of an experienced licensed hunter. This can be a lifesaver if you drew a permit but haven’t had time to complete the full course. Be sure to understand the requirements for this deferral, including age limits and supervisory rules. Our comprehensive guide on Washington Hunter Education and Licensing will give you all the details you need, as well as specific information on Washington Hunter Education Age Requirement. Make sure you meet these requirements well in advance of your season.
Declaring Elk Tag Details
If your special permit is for elk, particularly a general season elk tag that allows you to hunt in a specific area with a specific weapon, you'll need to make these declarations when you purchase your license. This includes choosing between an East Side or West Side elk tag and specifying your weapon of choice—modern firearm, archery, or muzzleloader. These choices are binding once made, so be absolutely sure of your hunt plans before finalizing the purchase. This is separate from your special permit, but necessary if you want a general season elk tag in addition to your special tag, or if your special permit itself requires a weapon declaration. For comprehensive details, check out our piece on Washington East Side Versus West Side Elk Tag.
Beyond the Basic License: Additional Permits and Passes
While buying your general hunting license and special permit tag is the big hurdle, there are often a few other essential items you'll need to consider, especially in Washington. Ignoring these can lead to fines, restricted access, or simply a less enjoyable hunt.
Transport Tags and Carcass Management
Every big game animal harvested in Washington requires a transport tag. When you purchase your big game license (specifically your deer, elk, bear, or cougar tag), the physical transport tag(s) will be issued along with your license. This tag must be immediately and securely attached to the carcass after a successful harvest, staying with the animal until it's processed and stored. It’s the proof that your animal was legally taken. Losing it, or failing to properly attach it, is a serious violation. So, once you’ve completed your license purchase, ensure you understand where your transport tags are and how to use them. Our article on the Washington Transport Tag Explained offers a deeper dive into this crucial requirement.
Planning for Additional Species or Hunts
Depending on your plans, your initial big game combo might not cover everything. For instance, if you've drawn a deer permit but also want to hunt black bear, and your combo didn't include a bear tag (which most typically do now), you'd need to purchase a separate bear tag. The same goes for cougar. Always double-check what your base license and combo package cover. Many hunters want to maximize their time in the field, so adding a small game or migratory bird permit for upland birds or waterfowl after big game season closes is common. Ensure all your intended species are covered by the appropriate tags and licenses.
Access Passes for Public Lands
Washington is blessed with vast amounts of public land, but accessing it sometimes requires specific passes. The most common is the Discover Pass, which is required for vehicle access to Washington State Parks and lands managed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). While you may have purchased one for previous outdoor activities, it's worth checking if yours is current before heading out. For federal lands, such as National Forests, a Northwest Forest Pass might be required, or you might rely on existing federal recreation passes. Knowing which pass you need for your chosen hunting area is critical for legal access and avoiding an unnecessary fine. Get the full scoop on Discover Pass Requirements for Washington Hunters to ensure you're squared away for your hunt. Using a scouting tool like GoHunt can help you identify land ownership and associated pass requirements as you plan your hunting adventures.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this guide is for general informational purposes only and is subject to change. Hunting regulations, license fees, and application processes are determined by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and can be updated annually. Always consult the official WDFW hunting regulations pamphlet and their website for the most current and accurate information before applying for permits or purchasing licenses.
